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MEDICINE.— (After Hahnel). 



THE 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH 

PERTAINING TO THE 

Physical Life of Man 

AND THE 

ANIMALS WHICH SERVE HIM, 

INCLUDING 

THE HORSE, OX, SHEEP, HOG, DOG, CAT, POULTRY, AND BIRDS: 

EMBRACING 

/iNATOMY, PHYSIOLOQY, AJn(D HYQIENE ', 

THE CURE AND PREVENTION OF DISEASE; THE PECULIAR FUNCTIONS AND DISORDERS 

OF THE MAID, WIFE, MOTHER, AND BABE; THE NURSING OF CHILDREN 

AND THE SICK; MEDICINAL RECIPES; ACCIDENTS, INJURIES, 

AND POISONS ; THE CARE AND IMPROVEMENT OF 

THE DOMESTIC ANIMALS, ETC., ETC. 



EDWIN M. HALE, M. D., 

Late Prof essor of Materia Medica and Therapeutics, Chicago ; Author of the "Materia Medica, Symp- 
tomatology, and Therapeutics of New Remedies /" "Diseases of Women ,'" "Lectures on Diseases 
of the Heart ; " "The Heart, and How to Take Care of It," etc. ; Member of Medical Insti- 
tutes and Academies of America / Honorary Member of State Medical Societies of 
New York, Massachusetts, Micliigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and 
Iowa, and of the Medical Society of the United States of Colombia, 
y South America / Corresponding Member of 'the Massacku~ 

setts Surgicaland Gyncecological Society , etc., etc., 



CHARLES A. WILLIAMS, M. D., 

Assisted by Specialists in Uarious Departments. 



SOLD ON SUBSCRIPTION ONLY 



CHICAGO: 
THE AMERICAN BOOK COMPANY. 

1884. 









COPYRIGHTED, 1884, 

BY 

THE AMERICAN BOOK COMPANY. 



??^<c,rS& 




TYPES AND PBESS OF 

The B lake ly- Marsh Printing Co. 



ELECTROTYPES BY 

A. Zeese & Co 



Wm. Wilson & Co. 



PUBLISHERS' PREFACE. 



The general purpose of domestic medical books is so well understood 
that we need here only note a few of the distinctive features of this work 
which it is believed the reader will consider points of superiority. The 
critic will detect many others in the details. 

( i ). Books of a compendious or encyclopedic nature, being especially 
suited to the wants of a busy public, have of late years met with a most 
cordial reception, since they insure dispatch in the acquisition of desired in- 
formation, and do not involve the expense incident to extended special 
works. The present volume, the first to cover the whole domain of do- 
mestic practice, is obviously designed to take its place in this particular 
class of literature. 

(2). The authors are in themselves a guarantee of the trustworthiness 
of what is presented. Doctor Hale has a fame on two continents as a 
writer, professor and practitioner to attest the value of what comes from 
his pen and experience, while Doctor Williams has few peers in his long 
practice, and in his special lectures. The two have sustained intimate per- 
sonal and professional relations for more than twenty-five years. Upon 
the latter has devolved the greater labor, and to him is to be accredited 
those portions which are not otherwise designated. Doctor Hale has re- 
vised the proofs of Part I and the Materia Medica, making additions over 
his name, has canceled various points in the original, and made other sug- 
gestions of value upon the same. It will be seen that Part VII entire is 
his, as well as the excellent treatise upon "The Care of the Heart;" he 
also added a few articles to Chapter XII and the Materia Medica, which 
were not formally accredited. By this arrangement have been secured the 
substantial benefits of a dual authorship. The special authors also reveal 
excellences which will convince even the casual critic that each is thoroughly 
conversant with his respective field. Doctor Foster has already become 
known to the profession through his contributions to classical works, and 
his special papers before medical societies and in professional journals. 
Messrs. Burges and Stoddard unquestionably hold a front rank among 

iii 



IV 

writers in their departments, as shown by their lists of publications, and 
Messrs. Cagwin and Stainsky had previously enjoyed an experience in 
direct observation and writings which singled them out to the authors and 
publishers in the selection of reputable and reliable contributors. Such 
parts of the book as have not been above alluded to were prepared by com- 
petent writers who freely consulted and drew from a long list of the best 
veterinary authorities of England and America, notably Lord, Rush, 
Mayhew, u Stonehenge," Law, Harris, and Martin, the admirable work 
of Lord and Rush being the basis of the treatment in Parts II, III, IV 
and VI. All such matter was reviewed and corrected by a skillful practi- 
tioner previous to its acceptance. 

(3). A literary editor, not versed in medical science, has been exclu- 
sively employed for more than a year upon this work, with instructions to 
use his untrammeled judgment in reducing the whole to the easy compre- 
hension of the popular reader. He has reviewed all manuscript and proof, 
and carefully eliminated technicalities and " big words," or clearly defined 
them in the context, the proofs being then submitted to the authors for the 
purpose of insuring exactness. Though this involved greater labor and ex- 
pense than was anticipated, the publishers are repaid by the consciousness 
that the style is of a more popular cast than has been heretofore attained. 

(4). The dimensions of household medical works — and the prices as 
well — have generally been extended beyond the demands of their readers 
by a presentation of such themes as evolution, chemical affinities, technical 
surgery, various "movements" and mechanical appliances, which few can 
understand, and fewer still apply. By excluding these the authors could 
accept all topics embodied in previous works which are of any practical 
value, and they likewise maintained a brevity of style which materially 
curtailed the size of the volume. The repetitions which are always inci- 
dent to manuscript furnished by separate specialists were discarded by the 
editor without detracting in the least from any part, and this further aided 
in bringing within convenient compass all points which the public can find 
of utility. That these steps have not led to poverty of information one 
will be convinced by a comparative inquiry into the fullness in the descrip- 
tion, cause, cure and prevention of disease, and other particulars. 

(5). Observing the proneness of a practitioner, when writing for 
the family, to give special heed to those ailments which he is called to treat, 
too much at the expense of such as are less grave and yet come within 
the daily experience of the family, the authors of the Compendium have 
incorporated an unusual number of common disorders and emergencies 
which the reader must himself treat. They have shown rare patience, too, 
in making such additions thereto as the publishers, editor and critics have 



PUBLISHERS PREFACE. V 

deemed of special popular use, but which have heretofore been either 
wholly ignored or inadequately considered. Among these special men- 
tion may be made of the manner in which have been presented " Emer- 
gencies and Domestic Surgery," embracing simple directions upon the 
many crises of every-day life which do not afford time for a physician's 
call; "Home Nursing," the most important part of treatment in grave 
cases, which will undoubtedly be of great service even to the professional 
nurse; "The Babe: Its Care and Treatment," which will give to the 
anxious mother answers to just such questions as so often arise during the 
first and most critical year of her babe's life; "Maturity and Old Age," 
which will afford priceless information upon topics that have generally 
been little regarded. 

(6). It is a cardinal and yet common error to assume that the reader 
knows what disease confronts him, whereas this is the most perplexing 
question of all. A special aim has been made in this work to so fully 
describe diseases as to surmount this difficulty before prescribing the treat- 
ment. This is the more imperative in the many instances in which two 
or more ailments are so much alike in symptoms as to be especially liable 
to confusion, and in such cases the parallel tables of symptoms are freely 
used in respect to the disorders of both man and beast. Observation being 
the only means of determining upon the ailment of dumb animals, the 
reader will be materially aided by the many illustrations of distinctive 
symptoms in the veterinary department. 

(7). The explicit divisions of the whole will make it of the easiest 
possible reference. Not only is a separate part devoted to each division of 
the animal kingdom treated, thus enabling the reader to confine his study 
to a specific limit when investigating the needs of a particular animal, but 
the subdivisions are made to stand out in bold view. The repetitions 
which this plan would otherwise necessitate, particularly in veterinary 
treatment, have been avoided by suitable cross-references. 

(8). Anatomy and physiology, the basis of all intelligent treatment, 
are set forth in an original manner that will commend itself to the reader 
and critic. Instead of the conventional mode of presentation — in a long 
treatise at the beginning or close of the book, far removed from the dis- 
eases incident to the various parts of the body — they are in the present 
instance placed at the heads of the chapters devoted to the diseases of the 
several organs, where they will be easy of reference in connection with 
the treatment. 

(9). While it is true that the subject of hygiene is of paramount im- 
portance, it has seemed best to depart from the established practice of treat- 
ing the subject independently at great length, for people rarely study 



vi publishers' preface. 

hygiene until they are sick, and then they wish to know how to get well. 
The chapter on Hygiene has therefore been limited to such simple rules as 
even the busy man or woman can observe, so briefly stated that they will 
be read. The hygiene that pertains to the various diseases is given along 
with their treatment, where it properly belongs. 

The eminent Doctor Beard, in the preface to his excellent " Home 
Physician," has in the following words aptly stated one point in the policy 
adopted in the Compendium : " There are yet among the people those 
who have a blind faith in some one school or exclusive system of treat- 
ment. To all such, let me say that the wise physician of our times uses 
for his patients all things that have been proved to be beneficial. On this 
principle this work is based." This is the only rational rule, whether in 
practice or authorship. In observing it the authors have consulted such a 
large number of authorities that they have been unable to furnish a list 
which could be made to do justice to all, and they have simply left it to 
the publishers to state that they have not hesitated to use anything within the 
range of medical literature for which they found a warrant in the ex- 
perience of their professional practice. 

The reader is urged to heed the advice, repeatedly given in the fol- 
lowing pages, to call medical counsel in all cases of a grave nature, since 
no book of this character can make him a skillful physician. The authors 
enable him to determine what disease is at hand, and set forth treatment 
suitable for malignant or serious cases exclusively for the use of those who 
can not reach a physician. Even if he should never adopt any part of the 
distinctive therapeutics, the book will insure an ample return in the intelli- 
gent view of health, disease and treatment which he will gain, and will 
thus greatly aid the physician when he is called. 

Encyclopaedias of every class, as indeed all books of reference, from 
their distinctive nature embody more or less topics which their readers 
seldom consult, their special value being found in the fact that they afford 
a source of information on which those of the household or community 
may at any hour wish to make a draught. That the Compendium will in 
its domain prove to be such a treasury is confidently hoped, and it is now 
respectfully submitted to the public for the test of its merits. 

October, 1SS4. 



HOW TO USE THE COMPENDIUM, 



(i). Use the index. Many excellent books of reference are of limited value to a 
large class of people for the simple reason that they do not spend a few minutes in ac- 
quainting themselves with the method of using the key to the whole— the index. Note 
the " explanations " at the head of the index on a subsequent page. 

(2). Devote a little study to the general flan of the book before you are called upon 
to treat a case. The preface will aid you in this. Pages 34 to 41 should be made es- 
pecially familiar, and of scarcely less importance are 539 to 543, references being made to 
the foot-notes on pages 731, 791 and 828. One reading of these will impart an intelligent 
understanding of the plan of the separate parts, and will require little time. Of course 
the salient points of Anatomy and Physiology, as presented at the heads of the several 
chapters, should be in the possession of every reader. 

(3). Arm yourself against emergencies by following the hints on page 318. 
(4). Do not treat a case until you have taken full counsel as to the choice of the 
remedy, the dose, etc., which are considered on pages 925-929; and notice all that is said 
about a given remedy in the Materia Medica before you prescribe it. Read all that is 
said on a disease before you begin to treat it 

(5). Many topics have been so presented as to" afford entertaining and profitable 
reading for leisure hours, and at the same time conduce to readiness in the use of the 
book. Among these are Hygiene, Maturity and Old Age, and Home Nursing. Every 
mother should particularly acquaint herself .with what is said about the Babe, for she 
must almost wholly depend upon her own observation to determine when her babe is ill, 
and what its ailment is. In this class of reading are pages 713-728, 849-856, 867-877, 
909-918. 

(6). A frequent error is made in domestic practice by deciding that a particular dis- 
ease is at hand because a patient presents a few symptoms which the family book men- 
tions as incident thereto, whereas a further study would detect the same symptoms in con- 
nection with others that mark a very different complaint. Certain symptoms are common 
to almost all derangements of the system, and hence the reader should look most closely 
for those which are peculiar to a given disorder, rather than for those which are common to 
many. Do not neglect the parallel tables of symptoms. 

(7). It is impossible for you to have at the same time all of the diseases mentio?ied in 
this volume. This caution appears ridiculous, but trustworthy domestic works have been 
in the hands of some of their readers, a source of perplexity because they have been 
heedlessly used. Owing to the existence of that class of almost universal symptoms 
which were alluded to under the sixth caution above, some credulous readers fancy that 
the description of each particular disease is a faithful picture of their condition. The 
charlatan waxes fat on this credulity of superficial observers. 

(8). When the advice is given to send for a physician, do not depend upon yourself 
if professional advice is within call. The Compendium will abundantly pay for itself in 
the assistance rendered in disorders that legitimately come within domestic practice. 

vii 



CONTENTS. 



PART I. 

MAN AND HIS DISEASES. 

Chapter I. — The Framework of the Body. Chapter II. — Signs of Health and 
Disease. Chapter III. — The Nervous System. Chapter IV. — The Organs of 
Digestion. Chapter V. — The Organs of Circulation. Chapter VI. — The Organs 
of Respiration. Chapter VII.— The Skin. Chapter VIII.— The Urinary Or- 
gans. Chapter IX. — General Diseases. Chapter X. — The Eye and Ear. Chap- 
ter XI. — Emergencies and Domestic Surgery. Chapter XII. — The Maid and 
the Wife. Chapter XIII— The Mother and her Babe. Chapter XIV.— Ma- 
turity and Old Age. Chapter XV. — Home Nursing. Chapter XVI.— Hygiene.. 23-498 

PART II. 

THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES. 

Introduction. Chapter I. — Signs of Health and Disease. Chapter II. — The Ner- 
vous System. Chapter III. — The Digestive System. Chapter IV. — The Or- 
gans of Circulation. Chapter V. — The Respiratory Organs. Chapter VI. — 
The Skin. Chapter VII. — The Urinary and Generative Organs. Chapter 
VIII.— The Eye and Ear. Chapter IX.— The Extremities. Chapter X.— Gen- 
eral Diseases and Injuries. Chapter XI. — General Care 499-728 

PART III. 

THE OX AND HIS DISEASES. 

Chapter I. — The Nervous System. Chapter II. — The Digestive Organs. Chapter 
III.— The Organs of Respiration. Chapter IV.— The Skin. Chapter V.— The 
Urinary and Generative Organs. Chapter VI. — Miscellaneous Disorders and 
Injuries 729-7SS 

PART IV. 
The Sheep and its Diseases 7S9-SC4 

PART V. 
The Hog and His Diseases , S05-S16 

PART VI. 
The Dog and His Diseases , S17-S46 

PART VII. 
The Cat and its Diseases S47-864 

PART VIII. 
Poultry and Large Birds 865-906 

PART IX. 
Cage Birds and Their Diseases 907-924 

MATERIA MEDICA. 

Remedies, Doses, Formulas, etc 925-945 

viii 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PAGE. 

Medicine Frontispiece 

The Human Skeleton 26 

The Spinal Column 28 

Section of the Foot 28 

The Muscles 30 

Biceps in the Forearm 32 

Tendons of the Forearm and Hand. . . 32 

Sections of Muscles 33 

Urinometer 40 

The Nervous System 42 

Magnified Nerve-ganglion 43 

Top View of the Cerebrum 44 

Rear and Base of the Brain 45 

Section of the Spinal Cord 46 

Section of the Brain 47 

Nerves of Taste 48 

Nerves of Smell 48 

The Pneumogastric Nerve 48 

The Sympathetic System 49 

Section of the Jaws 85 

Section of a Tooth 85 

The Jaws and Teeth 86 

Salivary Gland 87 

Organs" of Digestion 87 

Chest, Abdomen and Intestines 88 

Villi of the Intestines 89 

The Heart and Blood-vessels 129 

Chambers of the Heart 129 

Valves of the Heart (2) 1 30 

Arteries of the Body 131 

. Capillaries 132 

Cycle of Circulation 133 

Lacteals 134 

Lymphatics 135 

Larynx and Windpipe 170 

Vocal Cords 170 

Organs of the Chest 171 

Magnified Air-cells 171 

Cilia 172 

Section of the Skin 194 

Root of a Hair 194 

The Urinary Organs 210 

The Internal Organs, colored 225 

Vapor- tent 247 

Section of the Right Eye 270 

Anatomy of the Eye 272 



The Retina. . . . *.._ 273 

Orbit of the Eye 274 

The Lachrymal Organs 275 

Foreign Matter in the Eye 282 

Accommodation 284 

Shapes of the Eyeball 286 

Section of the Ear 293 

Outer Surface of the Drum-head 294 

Inner Surface of the Drum-head 294 

Bones of the Ear 295 

Articulated Bones of ihe Ear 295 

The Labyrinth of the Ear . 296 

Stoppage of Blood by Light Pressure. 319 

Artery of the Arm and Shoulder 320 

Artery of the Leg 320 

Pressure on the Finger 322 

Pressure at the Wrist 323 

Pressure on the Upper Arm 323 

Pressure on the Thigh 323 

Pressure under the Arm 323 

Pressure on the Neck 323 

Dressing with Plaster 326 

Bandaged Hand and Wrist 329 

Bandaging the Ankle 329 

Bandaging the Foot 329 

Bandage for the Head 329 

Excluding Poison from the System.. . 332 

Extinguishing a Flame 335 

Clearing the Throat of the Drowned. 340 

Artificial Inspiration 341 

Artificial Expiration 341 

The Michigan Method 341 

Foreign Body in the Eye 351 

Securing a Fractured Leg 352 

A Sling for the Arm 352 

Reducing a Dislocation 353 

Reduction bv the Patient 



353 

Maidenhood 372 

The Mother and Babe, colored 393 

Maud S 500 

Dexter 504 

Lady Thorn 507 

St. Julien 509 

Tay-Eye-See 513 

The Original Trotter 516 

Hambletonian (Rysdyk's) 519 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS, 



PAGE. 

Bashaw (Green's) 522 

Peerless 525 

Hinda Rose 529 

Wild Flower .. 535 

Johnston 536 

Skeleton of the Horse 53S 

Symptom of Brain Fever 544 

Symptom of Megrims 549 

Symptoms of Hydrophobia (2) 55; 

Feeding during Tetanus ..... 554 

Teeth of the Horse (17) 559-562 

Spasmodic Co.ic (2) 564 

Flatulent Colic 565 

Sign of Abdominal Irritation 566 

Pressure to Detect Enteritis 566 

Hot Cloths on the Abdomen 567 

Symptom of Acute Gastritis 571 

Position in Peritonitis 57^ 

Symptoms of Worms (2) 577 

Bots in the Stomach 578 

Symptom of Stomach Staggers 5S2 

High Choke 584 

Low Choke 5 S_ 

Aphthous Mouth 586 

Caries and Toothache 5S7 

Salivary Calculus and Fistula 589 

Symptoms of Heart Disease 593 

Sign of a Cold 601 

Steaming-bag for Bronchitis 603 

Confirmed Bronchitis 604 

Compresses for Bronchitis . . 604 

Eight-tailed Bandage 604 

Sounds in the Windpipe. 605 

Fomentation of the Throat 606 

Position in Congestion 607 

Position in Pneumonia 609 

Symptom of Pleurisy 612 

Sketch of the Horse 62c 

A Horse with Surfeit 622 

Stages of Grease (2 623 

Test for Mange 625 

Mallanders 62 7 

Sallenders 62 7 

Position in Urinary Disorders 63t 

Internal Organs of the Horse 632 

Inflammation of the Bladder 633 

A Horse with Albuminous Urine 636 

A Horse with Bloody Urine 63S 

Dressing for the Eye 646 

Partial Cataract 64S 

Complete Cataract 64S 

Bog Spavin 653 

Thorough-pin 653 

Bone Spavin 654 

Curb 655 



PAGE. 

Dressing for Curb 655 

Wind Galls 656 

Capped Hock 65S 

Capped Knee 658 

Sling for Breaking-down 662 

Varieties of Splint 663 

Stages of Quittor (2) 665 

Section of the Foot and Pasterns 666 

Sign of Navicular Disease 667 

Position in Foot-founder 668 

Seedy Toe 670 

Sandcrack Dressed (3) 672 

False Quarter 673 

Fa.se Quarter Shod 673 

Sling for Open Joint 675 

External Marks of Disease. . . 679 

Seat of Mumps 6S4 

Confirmed Influenza 686 

Nose-bag for Influenza 6S7 

Sling for Rheumatism 692 

Proof of Glanders 694 

Sign of Farcy 696 

Sign of Purpura Hemorrhagica 700 

Fistulous Withers 703 

Early Stage of Poll-Evil 704 

Dislocated Whirl-bone 71 1 

LaPorte's Structure and Proportions.. 715 

Section of the Horse's Foot 727 

Sensitive Parts of the Foot 727 

Skeleton of the Ox 730 

Sketch of the Ox 730 

Stomach of the Ox ... 735 

Section of the Stomach (2) 736 

Merino Sheep 790 

Sheep with Scab 79S 

Skeleton of the Hog S06 

Rob Roy SiS 

Handsome Tom 84S 

Hafiz S57 

Sketch of a Cock 866 

Gray Games S75 

Breathing Apparatus of Fowls . >7; 

Gape-worms SS3 

Feather for Removal of Gape-worms. >5: 

Buff Cochins S91 

Crested and Bearded Polish Fowls. ... S9S 

The Ovary of Fowls 924 

The Oviduct of Fowls 904 

The Family Choir 90S 

Nest of the Oriole 911 

Canaries and Nest 913 

Mocking-bird 915 

Goldfinch and Nes: 916 

Canary with Consumption 919 

Total number of Illustrations, 2.7. 



»<^>>f»: 



INDEX 



Explanations. — One will readily determine upon a disease by turning to the general 
reference to the particular fart of the body which is affected, as Bowels, Brain, Eye, 
Heart, Lungs, Stomach, etc., and this topical feature is maintained on such subjects as 
Babe, Sick-room, Poisoning, Horse, Ox, etc. By such grouping the index is very greatly 
reduced in dimensions and its value enhanced, without .lessening the number of refer- 
ences ; and yet the cross-references are very full. When more than one Part of the book 
is referred to under a given topic, the requisite distinctions are made by the following 
equivalents: H, Horse; O, Ox; S, Sheep; Hg, Hog; D, Dog; C, Cat; P, Poultry; 
B, Birds; ff, "and following pages." If neither of the initials is found, the reference is to 
Man, unless it obviously pertains to a subsequent Part. The figures refer to pages. 



O, 767. 
H, 701, 



S, 801. 

o, 787. 



Abomasum, O, 735. 
Abortion, 407. H, 640. 
Abscess, 267, 304, 417. 

D,8 4 6. P, 897. 
Absorbent vessels, 134. 
Accelerators, 137. 

Accidents, see Emergencies and Injuries. 
Accommodation, 284. 
Acid, see Carbolic, etc. 
Acne, 200. 

Adornments of the home, 487. 
African finches, food for, 917. 
After-birth, 411, 416. H, 641. 
After-dinner sleep, 482. 
After-pains, 414. 
Aged, care of the, 446 ; food, 446 ; rest, 447 ; 

warmth, 447; clothing, 447; bed-rooms, 

445, 447- 

Ague, 228, 230. 

Air, in health, 487; 
on the heart, 151. 

Air-cells, 171. 

Albumen-water, 473. 

Albuminuria, 215, 398, 405 ; 495. H, 635. 

Alcohol, 83, 152, 160, 316; inherited appe- 
tite, 495. 

Alcoholism, 153, 154. 

Altering, see Castration. 

Alternation of remedies, 929. 

Amenorrhcea, 377. 

American cattle plague, 779. 

American race horse, 512. 

American rinderpest, 778, 779. 



in sickness, 451; effect 
H, 7i3- 



Anasarca. H, 699. 

Anatomy, importance of, 25. H, 539. O, 

731. S, 791. Hg, 807. D,828. P, 872. 

B, 912. 
Aneurism, 148, 169. H, 597. 
Angina pectoris, 143, 166. 
Anthrax, H, 698. O, 740, 743. Hg, 808, 

809. P, 871. 
Antidotes, 358. 
Aorta, 129. 
Aphtha, H, 5S6. 
Apoplexy, 60, 349. H, 545, 546. O, 732, 

784. S, 792. Hg,8i 3 . D, 831. C, 859. 

P, 894. 

Appetite, 38; loss of, 99; for alcohol and 
tobacco, 495. H, 541; loss of, 579; de- 
praved, 580. O, depraved and excessive, 
742. S, loss of, 704. 

Apple-water, 473. 

Arnica, cause of erysipelas, 250. 

Arrowroot food, 174, 175. 

Artery, 131; bleeding from, 133; pulmo- 
nary, 129. H, enlargement, 597. 

Artificial breathing, 340. 

Ascites, 258. 

Asiatic cholera, 115. 
« Asphyxia, see Suffocation. 

Ass, the, 539. 

Asthma, 183; miliars, 183; hay, 1S4. D, 
838. P, 8S0. B, 918. 

Astigmatism, 288. 

Athletic sports, bad effects of, 155, 160. 

Atomizer, 174. 
(xi) 



IXDEX. 



Atrophy of the heart. H, 595. 

Audiphone. 317. 

Auditory canal, 294, 29S. 

Auricles, of the heart, 129; of the ear, 294, 

29S. 
Aviary, 910. 

Babe, care of the, 421 ; diseases, 422 ; nurs- 
ing, feeding and weaning, 424 ; milk for. 
426: exercise, 430, 431; clothing. 429: 
bathing, 429; ^igns of sickness — tempera- 
ture, 433; mouth, 433; breah, 433, 435 : 
tongue, 435 ; skin, 435 ; bowels. 435 : urine, 
435; pulse, 433; facial expression. 432; 
gestures, 433; cry. 422.433; chafing, 423; 
mortality, 421; colic, 423; vomiting, 422 
435; snuffles, 422; sore eyes, 422; new- 
born, 411; still-born. 412: breasts, 423. 

Babv-basket, 410. 

Baby-talk, 58. 

Baker's itch, 199. 

Ball-playing, 147. 

Bandages, 329. 352. 

Barber's itch, 199. 

Barley for horses, 721. 

Barley-water, 472. 

Bathing, effect on the ear, 310. 

Baths, for the well, 477; lor the sick, 467, 
472. H, 724. C, S55. B. 9 i2. 

Beaks, deiormed, 923. 

Bealed breasts, 417. 

Beans for horses. 720. 

Bearing-down of the womb, 3S5. 

Bed-rooms, for the well, 4S2 ; for the aged, 
445, 447; for the sick, 451. 

Beds", 4 Si. H, 727. 

Bed-sores, 207. 

Beef, diseased. 7S7. 

Beef-tea, 474. 

Beer, 154. 

Bee-stings, 334. 

Belly, black. B, 921. 

Belh -acne, see Colic. 

Bile, SS. 

Bile-tube. SS. 

Bilious fever, 22S. 

Biliousness, 120. 

Bird-, care of, 907-917: diseases of. 917-924. 

Bishoping the teeth, H, 55S. 

Bites. 332; of insects, 334; of mad dogs. 
332: of snakes, 333. H. 630. O. 7627 

Black belly. B, 921. 

Black mouth. S, 794. 

Black quarter. O, 774, 776. S, S04. 

Black-rot, P, S99. 

Black tongue, O, 740. 774. 

Black water. O, 764, 779. 

Bladder, 210, 211; inflammation, 214. H, 
falling, 635; inflammation, 633: spasm, 
634. O, inflammation, 76;; spas™., 764, 
765: stone in, 765. Hg, inversion, S16; 
stone in, S16. D, inflammation. S43. 



Blain, O. 740. 774. S. 793. 

Bleeding, persistent, 321 ; spider's web for, 
32 1 ; directions for .stopping, 322 ; in hand 
or foot, 322; in arm or leg, 322; in head 
or neck, 324: n mouth or iungs, 324; after 
delivery, see Flooding. H, 61S. 

Blindness, H, prevention. 651. P, SSc. 

Blisters, 84. 

Bloating, S, 794. 

Blood, spitting, 1S7; vomiting. 9S: flow of, 
see Bleeding ; circulation, 129. 

Blood-heat. ^. 

Blood- vessels, 129; in lungs, 171. 

Bloody flux, see Dysentery. 

Bloody murrain, 774, 776. 779. 

Bloody urine, H, 63S; O, 764. 

Blowing. H. 614. 

Blows, ^46. 

Blue disease, Hg, S09. 

Boating. 147. 

Bog spavin. 652. 653. 

Boils, 202; in the ear. 304. D. S46. C,86q 
P. S97. 

Bone spavin, H. 654. 

Bones, table of, 27: structure. 29: growth, 
29; broken, see Fractures. H. dislocated. 
711; fractures or". 712. O. swollen, 7S7 
fractures, 7S7. P, broken and dislocated, 
903. B, broken, 924, 

Boots, proper kinds, 4S0. 

Bote, 578. 

Bowels, index of di-ease, 40: inflamma- 
tion, 122; in late life. 439. H. bails in, 
see Concretions ; inflammation, 563, 566. 
O. inflammation, 744.. 750. S. inflamma- 
tion, S04. D, inflammation, S33 : worms 
in, 835. B. inflammation, 920. 

Brain, structure, 44; concussion, 347; fever, 
59; inflammation, 59. H. concussion, 
550; inflammation. 544: fever, 544. O. 
fever, 731. 732 ; water on, _ ^_ S, in- 
flammation, 791. 

Bran for horses. 721. 

Bran poultice. 464. 

Braxy, S. S02. 

Bread poultice, 464. 

Break-down behind, P. 905. 

Breaking-down.. H. 661. 

Breast-milk. 424-427. 

Breasts, care of, 401 ; pain in. 401 ; inflam- 
mation, 417; bealed. 417. 

Breath, offensive, 96. 

Breathing, offices of 172; organs. 170: arti- 
ficial, 340; in late life. 441. H. 544 
thick, 614; broken, 613. 

Breathing apparatus. P. 5 _ - 

Breeds, H, 514. D.S21. 

Bright's disease, 220. 259. H. 635. 

Broken bones, see Bones. 

Broken-heart, 1:7. 

Broken hoof, H, 669. 

Broken wind, H. 613. 



INDEX. 



Bronchi, 171. 
Bronchial tubes, 171. 

Bronchitis, 179. H, 602. O, 753, 754, 755. 
S, 797. D, 821. C, 861. P, 880, 886. 
Bronchocele, 263. 

Bruises, 330. H, 705. 0, 787. P, 903. 
Brushing, H, 664. 
Buck-tooth, H, 587. 
Buff Cochins, 891. 
Bullfinch, food for, 917. 
Bumble-foot, P, 897. 
Bunion, 202. 

Burns, 335, 337. D, 835. 
Byerly-Turk line, 511. 

Caffeine, 149. 

Cage for birds, 910. 

Cage-birds, 907-924. 

Calving, 766, 775. 

Canary, food for, 914. 

Cancer, 266. 

Canker of the feet, H, 671. 

Canker of the mouth, D, 832. P, 880, 888. 

Cannon bone, H, 666. 

Capillaries, 131; bleeding from, 133. 

Capped elbow, H, 659. 

Capped hock, H, 657. 

Capped knee, H, 658. 

Carbolic acid, poisoning by, 367. 

Carbuncle, 205. 

Cardinal, food for, 916. 

Care, effect on the heart, 144. 

Caries, H, of the face, 617; of the jaw, 586. 

Carpets in the sick-room, 456. 

Carrot poultice, 464. 

Cart -horses, 515. 

Cartilage, 28. 

Castration, H, 643. O, 770. Hg, 816. 

Cat, bites of, 332; origin and history, 849; 

traits, 850; varieties, 852; health, 853, 

food and drink, 853; care of fur, 855; 

housing, 855 ; diseases, 856 ff ; medicines, 

857 ; with kittens, 863. 
Cataract, 288. H, 647. O, 785. D, 846. 
Catarrh, 174, 310. H, 601. O, 752. S, 

797. D, 832. C, 859. P, 886. B, 918. 
Cathartics, 105. 
Cattle plague, 777, 779. 
Caustics, burning by, 337. 
Cellars, foul, 491. 
Cerates, 926; see Formulas. 
Cerebellum, 45. 
Cerebro-spinal fever, H, 550. 
Cerebro-spinal meningitis, 65. 
Cerebro-spinal system, 44. 
Cerebrum, 44. 
Chaffinch, food for, 907. 
Chafing, 201 ; of babes, 423 ; of the ear, 

304. 
Chambers of the heart, 129, 130. 
Change of life, 390, 448. 
Chapped hands and lips, 208. 



Chapped heel, H, 624. 

Chaps, O, 758. 

Charcoal poultice, 464. 

Chicago fire, effects of, 145, 159. 

Chicken broth and soup, 474. 

Chicken powders, 875. 

Chicken-pox, 237. P, 897. 

Chickens, care and treatment, 867. 

Chilblain, 201. 

Child-bed, see Confinement. 

Child-bed fever, 415 . 

Child-birth, see Parturition. 

Children's diseases, 309. 

Chills, see Ague. P, 901. 

Chip, P, 888. 

Chloral, 83. 

Chlorosis, 381. 

Choke-damp, 344. 

Choking, 343. H, 583. 0,786. D. 836. 

Cholera, simple, 112; Asiatic, 115. Hg, 

809; false, 810. P, 878. 
Cholera infantum, 113. 
Cholera morbus, 112. 
Cholerine, see Diarrhata. 
Chorea, 57. 
Choroid coat, 272. 
Chronic rheumatism, 256. 
Chyle, 88. 

Cilia in the lungs, 172. 
Ciliary muscle, 272. 
Circulation, 129; lymphatic, 134; in late 

life, 441 ; artificial, 338. H, 590. 
Clap, see Gonorrhcea. 
Claws, B, deformed, 921. 
Cleveland Bays, 515. 
Clinical thermometer, 35. 
Clipping, H, 725. 
Clothing, in health, 483; for babes, 429; 

for the aged, 447. H, 724. 
Clover for horses, 718. 
Clover sickness, O, 737. 
Clydesdale horses, 515. 
Coat of horse, 539. 
Coated tongue, 36. 
Cochlea, 297. 
Cock, sketch of, 866. 
Codfish broth, 474. 
Coffee, 149. 
Coffin bone, H, 666. 
Cold, in the head, 174; epidemic, 186; in 

the eye, 278; in the ear, 309; neglected, 

316. H, 601. O, 752. S, 797. D, 838. 

P, 886. B, 918. 
Cold -sore, 200. 
Colic, 104; in pregnancy, 406. H, 563, 583. 

0,744,745- S, 795. Hg, 815. D, 834. 
Collar-galls, H, 629. 
Collisions, 346. 
Colt-trotting, 535. 
Comb, white, P, 899. 
Compositor's cramp, 72. 
Compresses, 464. 



XIV 



INDEX. 



Concretions, H, 575. 

Concussion of the brain, 347. 

Confinement, 409. 

Constipation, 105; in convalescence, 106; 

in pregnancy, 402; after delivery, 415; in 

late life, 440. H, 578. O, 747.' S, 804. 

D, 834. C,8 54 . P,8 9 2. B, 9 2i. 
Consumption, 174, 188. H, 611. O, 754. 

S, 797. C, S61. P, 887. B, 918. 
Conversation-tubes, 317. 
Convulsions, of infants, 56; of others, 349. 

H,540- 0,733. C,8 5 8. 
Cookery, 483. 
Coop for poultry, 868. 
Corn for horses, 721. 
Cornmeal gruel, 473. 
Corns, 202. H, 671. 
Coryza, 186. H, 601. O, 752. 
Cosmetics, 477. 
Costiveness, see Constipation. 
Cough, varieties, 173. H, 598. S, 797. D, 

840. P, 886. 
Cow-hocked, H, 655. 
Cow-pox, 769. 
Crack in the hoof, H, 672. 
Crack in the skin, O, 758. 
Cracking of the nipples, 419. 
Cramp, of writers, type-setters, etc., 72; in 

the water, 338; in the muscles, 350; in 

the heart, 169; in the bowels, see Colic; 

during pregnancy, 405. H, 693. P, 895. 
Cranial-nerves, 47. 
Crib-biting, H, 581. 
Crop-bound, 891. 
Croup, spasmodic, 183; membranous, 178, 

I 79> 2 44- P> 880. 
Crusta lactsea, O, 760. 
Crying of babes, 422, 433. 
Cud, O, 736; loss of, 741. S, loss of, 804. 
Curb, H, 655, 678. 
Cuts, dressing, 327; care, 328; bandages, 

329. H, 706. O, 787. S, 804. D, 846. 

P. 903- 
C\ sts, ovarian, 389. 
Cysts, O, in the skin, 759. 

Damp in wells, etc., 344. 

D.mcing, 485. 

Dandruff or dandriff, 196, 478. 

Darley line, 506. 

D-afness in children, 301. H, 651. D, 845. 

Debility, P, 895. 

Deformities, P, 902. B, 923. 

Delirium, C, S58. 

Delirium tremens, 70. 

Dentition, 90. 

Dexter, 504. 

Diabetes, 216. H, 636. O, 765. 

Diaphragm, 172. H, spasm of, 592, 615. 

Diarrhoea, 108; in pregnancy, 403; after 
delivery, 415. H, 567. O, 746, 747. S, 
794. C, 860. P, 892. B, 921. 



Diet, errors in, 470; effect on the heart, 
146; in pregnancy, 395; after delivery, 
414. 

Digestion, 85 ; in late life, 439. H, 541, 558. 

O, 735- 
Dilutions, 926. 

Diphtheria, 242. C, 859. P, 889. 
Diseased cattle, 787. 
Diseases, signs of, 34. H, O, S, Hg, and D, 

539,679. P, 871, 878. 
Disintectants, 457. 
Dislocations, 353. H, 711. O, 787. S, 

804. 
Distemoer, H, 690. O, 779. D, 830. C, 

861. 
Disturbances of the sick, 458. 
Dizziness, 52, 349. O, 734. B, 920. 
Dog, bites of, 332; breeds, 821; uses, 821; 

traits, 819; origin, 819; diseases, 827; 

care, 827. 
Doses, 926; size, 926; frequency, 928; alter- 
nation, 929; of particular remedies, 930 

ff; for children and domestic animals, 

927. 
Douches, 174, 310. 
Douglass Mixture, P, 875. 
Drainage, 491. 
Draught horses, 514. 
Dried-beef gravy, 474. 
Drinking-water, 489. 
Driving as a recreation, 485. 
Dropsy, 258. H, 697. O, 760, 781. S, 

804. D, 846. 
Drowning, prevention, 338; rescue from, 

339 : restoration, 339. 
Druggists' weights and measures, 928. 
Drunkenness, see Alcoholism. 
Dry-earth closet, 492. 
Drv murrain, O, 738, 779. 
Ducks, 867. 
Dumb braxy, S, 802. 
Duodenum, 88. O, 736. 
Dust-balls, O, 751. 
Dutch horses, 515. 
Dysentery, no. H, 569. O, 746. S, 794. 

Hg, 816. D, 834. C, S60. P, 892. B, 

921. 
Dysmenorrhoea, 377. 
Dyspepsia, 100. H, 579. P, SS9. 

Ear, anatomy and physiology, 293; dis- 
eases, 300; discharges from, 313; ringing 
i n » 3*5; inflammation, 305; polypus in, 
267; foreign bodies in, 307. 351; har- 
dened wax, 306; eczema, 303; probing, 
307. 14,645,651. O, inflammation, 7S6. 
D, disorders of, S44. C, 8«. P, mot- 
tled, 899. 

Earache, 304-317. 

Ear-drum, 295, 298; artificial, 317. 

Ear-trumpets, 317. 

Ear-wax, hardened, 306. 






INDEX. 



Eczema, 199; of the ear, 303. D, 841. C, 

862. 
Egg and alum poultice, 464. 
Egg-bound, F, 904. 
Egg-eating, P, 906. 
Egg-tbod for birds, 914. 
Eight-tailed bandage, 604. 
Elbow, capped, H, 659. 
Elephantiasis, P, 896. 
Emergencies, 31S ff ; cautions in, 318. 
Emetics, 467; in poisoning, 358. H, 567. 

O, 737- 
Emmetropia, 284. 
Emotions, excessive, 350. 
Endocarditis, see Inflammation of the heart. 

H, 593- 

Enteritis, see Inflammation of the bowels. 

Entertainments for the sick, 457. 

Epiglottis, 170. 

Epilepsy, 55, 495. H, 548. S, 792. Hg, 
814. D, 832. B, 920. 

Epizootic, H, 686. 

Eruptions, 195. H, 621. O, 758. 

Erysipelas, 250. H, 628. 0,762. Hg, 816. 

Excoriations of babes, 423. 

Exercise, effect on the heart, 155; exces- 
sive, 485. H, 724. D, 827. 

Eye, an index of disease, 36 ; anatomy and 
physiology, 270; diseases, 276; inflamed, 
277; injuries, 280; foreign bodies in, 280, 
350; inflammation in babes, 422; hygiene, 
289. H, inflammation, 645, 646; polypus 
and warts on, 650, 651. O, inflamma- 
tion, etc., 785. D, disorders of, 844. C, 
inflamed, 859. P, 889. B, 922. 

Eyeball, shapes of, 286. 

Eyelids, inflamed, 277; granular, 278. H, 
inflamed, 650, 651. O, 785. 

Face, signs of disease, 34; paralysis of, 62. 
P, mottled, 899. 

Fainting, 345 ; in pregnancy, 407. 

Falling of the womb, 385. 

Falling sickness, 55. 

Fallopian tubes, 373. 

Falls, 346. 

False cholera, Hg, 810. 

False quarter, H, 673. 

False waters, 405. 

Family resemblances, 494. 

Farcy, 693. 

Farmers' wives, insane, 486. 

Far-sight, 287. 

Fatness, B, 922. 

Fatty hearts, 148. 

Feather-eating, P,9c6. 

Feeding, of babes, 428; change of, 428; of 
the sick, 472. 

Feet, care of, 480; offensive, 480. H, nail 
in, 676; founder, 667; fever, 667; ulcer- 
ated, see Quittor, Thrush, etc; care of, 726. 
B, sore, 922. 



Felon, 203. 

Festering sores, see Cuts, Boils and Abscesses. 

Fetlock, H, sprain of, 661. 

Fever, bilious, 228; gastric, 228; hay, 184; 
intermittent, 228; remittent, 228; scarlet, 
239; simple, 225; typhoid, 226; typhus, 
226; yellow, 230; brain, 59; puerperal, 
415. H, brain, 544; cerebro-spinal, 550; 
nervous, 551; scarlet, 682; simple, 679; 
splenic, 698; typhoid, 679, 681. O, ac- 
climating, 779; brain, 731; gastric, 779, 
inflammatory, 771; milk, 775; nervous, 
773; periodic, 779; simple, 771; Spanish, 
779; splenic, 773, 779; Texas, 779. S, 
804. Hg, brain, 814; intestinal, 809. D, 
inflammatory, 836; nervous, 837; putrid, 
837. 

Fever and ague, 228. 

Fever blister, 200. 

Fever thermometer, 35. 

Fevers, remarks upon, 225. 

Filth in hogs, 807. 

Finches, food for, 917. 

Fire in the clothing, 335. 

Fire-arms, wounds by, 337. 

Fistula, H, of salivary glands, 589, 678 ; of 
withers, 702 ; of nose, 704. 

Fits > 55, 349; of infants, 56. H, 549. O, 
732. S, 792. Hg, 816. C, 858. 

Flaxseed poultice, 464. 

Fleas, D, 842. C, 864. 

Fledging, P, 900. B, 923. 

Flemish horses, 515. 

Flesh, B, loss and excess of, 922. 

Flesh-food, effects of, 147. 

Flooding, after delivery, 413. H, 641. O, 

765- 
Fluke disease, O, 751. S, 795. 
Flukes, O, 751. S, 795. 
Flux, bloody, see Dysentery. 
Fly in the nose, S, 799. 
Fly paper, poisoning by, 362. 
Foaling, difficult, 640. 
Fomentations, 465. H, 606. 
Food, 483; for babes, 114, 424-428; for the 

sick, 470. H, 718 ff. Hg, 808. D, 827. 

C, S53. 

Foot, H, anatomy, 666, 727. D, sore, 842. 
Foot and mouth disease, 739, 781. Hg, 80S, 

809. P,87i. 
Foot-ball, bad effects, 148. 
Foot- founder, H, 667, 669. O, 783. 
Foot-rot, O, 783. S, 800. 
Formulas 941, ff. 
Foul, H, 639. 

Founder in the feet, H, 667, 669. 
Four-year-old trotting, 537. 
Fractures, 352. H, 712. O, 787. S, S04. 

D, 816, 846. C, 864. P, 903. B, 924. 
Framework of the body, 25. 
Freckles, 196. 

Freezing, 348. 



INDEX. 



French Commission, 719, 720. 

Frenzy, Hg, S14. 

Fright, 35. 

Frog of foot, H, 666. 

Frog- felon, 203. 

Frost-bite, 201, 303, 348. P, 901. B, 924. 

Fruit diet in pregnancy, 396. 

Fungous growths, O, 759. 

Fur, C, care of, 855. 

Gall-bladder, 87. 

Galls, H, of saddles, etc., 629. 

Gall-stones, 121. 

Gapes, P, 883. 

Gape- worms, P, 895. B, 919. 

Gargles, 467, 943. 

Gas, suffocation by, 344. 

Gastralgia, 68. 

Gastric fever, 228. 

Gastritis, see Inflammation of the Stomach. 

Geese, 867. 

Generative organs, 223. H, 543, 631. O, 

Genital organs, 223. 

Giddiness, 52. O, 734. S, 791. 

Glanders, 690. 

Glass, cuts by, 331. 

Gleet, nasal, H, 615. 

Gloss anthrax, O, 740, 774. 

Goat, the, 791. 

Godolphin line, 510. 

Goitre, 263. O, 761. S, 799. 

Goldsmith Maid, 520. 

Gonorrhoea, H, 639. O, 769. D, 846. 

Graham mush, 475. 

Grain sickness, O, 737. 

Granular eyelids, 278. 

Granulations in sores, 326. 

Grass as food, H, 718. C, 854. 

Grass staggers, O, 738. 

Gravel, 214. 

Gray Games, P, 873. 

Grease, H, 620, 678, 683, 695. 

Green sickness, 381. 

Grief, effects on the heart, 114. 

Gripes, see Colic, Diarrhaia, Dysentery and 

Enteritis. 
Grocer's itch, 199. 
Grooming, 723. 
Grunter, H, 614. 
Guinea-fowls, see Poultry. 
Gullet, 87. H, stricture of, 590. 
Gum-Arabic water, 473. 
Gum-boils, 92. 
Gums, inflammation, scurfy, spongy and 

bleeding, 92. 
Gymnastics, effects of, 147. 

Haemorrhage, see Bleeding. 

Hsemorrhoids, 117. 

Hafiz, 857. 

Hair, care of, 478; thinning, 196, 478. 



Hair-balls, O, 751. 

Hair-dyes and invigorators, 479. 

Hands, care of the, 4S0; chapped, 208. 

Handsome Tom, 848. 

Hanging, 343. 

Hartshorn, poisoning by, 365. 

Hay for horses, 718. 

Hay-asthma, 184. 

Hay-fever, 184. 

Head, O, water and insects in, 785. S, 
water in, 793. P, sore, 888, 889. 

Headache, varieties, 50, 52. 

Healing of wounds, 325. 

Health, signs of, 34-41. H, O, S, Hg, and 
D, 539, ff. 

Hearing, physiology of, 297; aids 10,317. 

Heart, anatomy and physiology, 130; care 
of, 136; derangements of, 77, 138, 162; 
palpitation, 63, 77; cramp, 166; influence 
of mind on, 140; of diet, 146; fatty, 148; 
broken, 157; of children, 161; of the 
aged, 442. H, dropsy, 592; dilatation, 
594; enlargement, 594; inflammation, 
593 5 wasting, 594. 

Heart-burn, 103. 

Heart-cramp, 166. 

Heart-disease, two kinds, 162, 164. 

Heating appliances, 488. 

Heaves, H, 613. 

Heel, H, chapped and cracked, 624. 

Hen distemper, 878. 

Hereditary tendencies, 494. 

Heredity and marriage, 494. 

Herniae, see Ruptures. 

Herpes, 200. 

Hiccough, H, 592, 615. 

Hide-bound, H, 627. O, 762. 

Hinda Rose, 529. 

Hip-bath, 469. 

Hip-joint disease, 269. 

Hives, 249. 

Hoarseness, P, 880. B, 91S. 

Hock, H, capped, 657, 658; sprained, 65S. 
P, cracked, 903. 

Hog, skeleton, 806; anatomy and physiol- 
ogy, 807 ; feed and care, 807. 

Home nursing, 451, ff. 

Homesickness, effects of, 144. 

Hoof, H, contraction of, 674; crack in, 672. 

Hoof-bound, H, 674. 

Horns, O, broken, 787. 

Horse, Arabian, 503; prehistoric, 511; in 
history, 502; modern, 503; thorough- 
bred, 506; racers, 512; draught, 514; 
skeleton, 538; health and disease, 539, 
679; anatomy and physiology, 538, 539, 
632; sketch, 620; proportions, 714, 715; 
care, 713, ff. 

Household remedies and appliances, 929. 

Hunger, see Starvation. 

Hydrocephalus, 64, 25S. S, 793. 
Hydrothorax, 258. 



INDEX. 



XV11 



Hydrophobia, 71. H, 552. 0,732. 8,792. 

D, 828. 
Hygiene, 476. H, 713. Hg, 807. D, 827. 

C, 853. P, 868. B, 910. 
Hypermetropia, 287. 
Hypochondria, 75, 78, 494. 
Hysteria, or hysterics, 59, 75, 383, 494. 

Idiocy, 494. 

Index of poisons, 359. 

Indian meal poultice, 646. 

Indigestion, 100. H, 579. O, 742. D, 832. 

P, 889. 
Infants, see Babe. 
Infection in the sick-room, 460. 
Inflammation, see Brain, Bowels, Lungs, 

Eye, etc. 
Inflammatory fever, O, 771. D, 836. 
Influenza, 186. H, 686. P, 880. 
Infusions, 926. 
Inhalations, 190. 
Inherited diseases, 494. 
Injections, 107, 411, 466. 
Injured, carrying the, 356. 
Injuries, 318. H, 679. O, 771, 787. Hg, 

816. D, 846. C, 864. P, 902. B, 923. 
Insanity, among farmers, 486; inherited, 

495- H,55 3 . 
Insects, bites and stings, 334. 
Interfering, H, see Brushing and Speedy 

Cut. 
Intertrigo, 201 ; of the ear, 304. 
Intestinal juice, 88. 

Intestines, 87, 89 ; disorders of, see Botvels. 
Iritis, 280. 
Itch, 198. H, 625. O, 760. Hg, 816. D. 

842. P,8 97 . 
Itching of the genitals, 125, 406. 
Itching of the mane, H, 626. 
Ivy, poisoning by, 334. 

Jaundice, 28. O, 748. 

Jaw, open joint, H, 707; caries, 586. 

Jay-Eye-See, 513. 

Jelly -water, 473. 

Johnston, H, 537. 

Joint-oil, H, 652. 

Joints, 119; dislocated, 353. H, 652; in- 
flammation, 652 ; ulcerated, 657 ; open, 
675. O, open, 787; swollen, 784; dislo- 
cated, 711. S, swollen, 800. 

Jumping, effects of, 147. 

Kidneys, physiology, 210; in late life, 440. 
H, 632; inflammation, 631. O, inflam- 
mation, 763, 765. D, inflammation, 843. 

Kittens, new-born, 863. 

Knee, H, capped, 658; broken, 659; sprain- 
ed, 659. O, sponge on, 759. 

Koumiss, 83, 191. 

Kumyss, see Koumiss. 



Labor, signs and stages, 410. 

Labyrinth, 296, 299. 

Lacerations, 330. 

Lacteals, 89. 

Lady Thorn, 506. 

Lambing, 801. 

Lameness, H, see £>uittor, Sprains, etc. P, 

903. 

Laminitis, H, 667. 

Lampas, 588. 

Lancet, 181. 

La Porte's Proportions, 714, 715. 

Lark, food for, 917. 

Laryngitis, see Inflammation of the Larynx. 

Larynx, 170; inflammation, 179. H, in- 
flammation, 605. 

Leaping, effects of, 147. 

Leg- weakness, P, 895. 

Lemonade, 473. 

Leprosy, Hg, 812. 

Leucorrhoea, 380. 

Lice, H, 626. O, 760, 761. S, 798. Hg, 
816. D, 842, P, 870, 900. B, 923. 

Ligaments, 28. 

Light, effect on body, 453. P, 869. B, 912. 

Lightning, stroke of, 343. 

Lights, rising of, Hg, 813. 

Lime, burning by, 337. 

Lime-water, 472 ; see Formulas. 

Lincolnshire Blacks, 515. 

Linnets, food for, 917. 

Linseed poultice, 464. 

Liver, 87; inflammation, 120; in late life, 
439. H. 632; inflammation, 572. O, in- 
flammation, 748; worms in, 750; flukes 
in, 751. S, inflammation, 795; flukes in, 
see Rot. D, inflammation, 835. P, dis- 
ease of, 890. B, 920. 

Liver complaint, see Liver. 

Liver disease, see Liver. P, 890. 

Liver spots, B, 920. 

Lochia, 414. 

Lock-jaw, 70, 149. H, 554. O, 733. S, 
793. Hg, 814. 

Long-sight, 287. 

Loss of cud, O, 740. S, 804. 

Lotions, 926 ; see Formulas. 

Low spirits, see Nervous Exhaustion 

Lumbago, see Rheumatism. 

Lungs, 171; inflammation; see Pneumonia; 
consumption, 180. H, congestion, 607; 
consumption, 611 ; inflammation, 602, 60S. 
O, inflammation, 754. D, inflammation, 
840. 

Lying-in chamber, 410. 

Lymph, 134; in healing, 326. 

Lymphatics, 135. 

Macena Biscuit, for birds, 914. 
Mad dogs, bites of, 332. See Madness. 
Madness, 71. H, 552. O, 732. S, 792. 
Hg, 814. D, 828. 



__vm 



:.v: z::. 



Mid. surrers. H. :_: ~ -:: Hr ::_ 

Mirr::s. - . :r. :re desr. 7: : S. 71c 

M::d ir.d ™ i:e. 575. 

Miide: -/.:•:•- :-: 

Mil .-.rder* H :;- 67 5 

Mammary abscr — _;- 

Mane, H," itching, 6261 

:■:-:: - . - :•: H: 5:d I :_: 

>Si 
Miruplies. I 755 
Marasmus, O. 7_.>. -6ol 
Marriage, 393, 494. 

M_rsi:_i. :-:■:: s r-; 7 m=±?:. 33- 

Mas:::: : e 1 1 s : : . 
Mat eria Medica, 925 fL 

Mi:erri~ - :_. ____. 
MiTuriry". _.;-: f 
!•_;.: d .-. ::•: 
Measles. r.3: Hg : : : 

Mtij-t:, iz-2zr.tz-3.rizi' ir.d ::: :r.e h:~e. 
::: 



357- 



•:•_ : . r . >:r . 



,__:- H. :'_:_ : -:- E :: 

i ^eri:e: _:•: 
;:„r.ess ::_ _._.: 

-: 

ie, 393; fashionable, 424; advice 

:e ■:.: er=. ?. So: 
?. 900. 3. 923. 
:dd:r':r::i:r. 15: :_r.V.er. '/. . s. 
17:. H ir.d; v.: : :: :^f sigr. 
-"_:. O, ulcerated, 739. S, 
:_ V.:en-rd. 793 D. " 



Mu: 
Mu_ 



:S._ 



':::•:•;;•■. -7-.: --6; 
::: ::: r~- i::rdr_g. 77; 



N:;,i! zzzzrrz. ~. ~_ H :c: ~ "_ 5. 

7:7 I S3: Z ::: ?. S>d. 3. c,:5. 
Nis.il z'-ttz H. d: 5 
X:-e: ::' bides. _r : 
Ni~i: ulir : : r.e. H fee 

iir disease H : : : 
Near-sigh:. : :. 

X:::::::- s:: Z ' •- :/ ::".• Z ::-: .:.;-: 
Xr-t-:;.::-:::: _.: 
Nerves. srru::ure. e:c. _.:' 
Ner : us :er.:ers. _.-' 
Nervous exhaustion, ~ 5 
Nervous fever, H, 551. O, 773. D. 5 - 
Ner :usrtss 7: 
N:. •" : - - -■ = := ..-. is. 2." ::z : s. : : .v ; . : . : r 

42-50; in late life, 442. H, 541/544. O. 

73-- 

Ne~.e-rasr. :_: 
Nettles, poison bv, 334, 

X:-o:::. -irieries :: dr. 

Neuras.r.er.ia. 75 

Nightingale, food for, 916. 

Nightmare. 7: 

Nitres. :ra-hed ar.d ulcerated _::. in 

pfegnancj, 401 ; in babes,. 423. 
N:r~.ir. h irsts :;: 
Nose, polypus in, 267; foreign bodies in, 

■■: bleedirg ::' :5: H dsruli in -;_.. 

poljpus in, 619. S, fly in, 799, 
N r bleed, 182- H.61S. 
N::es •::' tire r.urse .3: 
Nurse, the _ .- : r 
Nurse 

t _-- : f : :' 

424, ft 

Datmeal g-~uel ar.d ptrrtdre _-_ _.-: 

_ atmea.-- _:er. _-: 

jzzi ::r r. ir^es -;: 

CEs:_rr.ag-us :- 

Ointments, 926; see Formulas. 

Old age, 438-450; conditions of the body, 

43S-441 : disorders. 446; care, 446, fE 
Old-sir-:, :5.5 
0-:,su~. I -:: 
C :.:•; zis-\.i ssrrs.z 537. 
_-;:.::: ;; 5 
j _ er : ::r :s H : _ : 
I ;_-•-: -v.:-- :a _irrr.il :;S: p-__r__.e_:_, 279 

z : u ::: : j 



INDEX. 



XIX 



Origin, H, 510; trotting, 517. D, 819. C, 
849. 

Original trotter, 516. 

Ovarian tumors or cysts, 389. 

Ovaries, 373; inflammation, 3S8. P, 904. 

Ovaritis, 388. 

Overheating, 63, 343. 

Overreach, H, 664. 

Overwork, H, 712. 

Oviduct, P, 904; inflammation, 904; pro- 
trusion, 905. 

Ovulation, 373. P, 904. 

Ox, the, 729; skeleton of, 730; sketch of, 
730; points of, 730; stomach, 735. 

Pacers, origin of trotters, 524; records, 537. 

Pacing, 537. 

Packs for the sick, 469. 

Pairing- fever, B, 922. 

Pajpitation of the heart, 63, 77. H, 591. 

Palsy, 62. 

Pancreas, 87. 

Pancreatic juice, 88. 

Paralysis, 62. H, 547. O, 732. S, 792. 

Hg, 816. D, 831. P, 894. 
Parasites, see Worms and Lice. 
Paregoric, poisoning by, 357. 
Paris green, poisoning by, 357. 
Parrot, food for, 917. 
Parturition, 408. H, 640. O, 766, 775, 

S. 801. 
Patients, care of, 451, ff. 
Paunoh, O, 758. 
Peas for Horses, 720. 
Pedestrianism, effects of, 147. 
Peerless, 525. 

Penis, H, protrusion of, 643; clogged, 643. 
Perfect Pile Cure, 119, 128. 
Pericardium, 130. 
Period of pregnancy, 399. 
Peritonitis, 122, 123. H, 573. O, 750. 
Pharyngitis, H, 607. 
Pharynx, H, inflammation, 607. 
Physic, by oil, etc., 105. 
Physiology, importance of, 25. 
Pigeon-breast, 264. 

Pigment, of the eye, 272 ; of the skin, 194. 
Piles, 117; in pregnancy, 403. H, 575. O, 

Pillows for the sick, 455. 

Pimples, H, 621; see Eruptions. 

Pink-eye, H, 688. 

Pip, P, 887. 

Pitchfork wounds, see Stabs. H, 706. 

Pleura, 171. 

Pleurisy, 182. H, 612. O, 754, 757. D, 

840. 
Pleurodynia, 252. 
Pleuro-pneumonia, 756. 
Pneumo-gastric nerve, 48. 
Pneumonia, 180. H, 608. S, 797. Hg, 813, 

D, 840. 



Poisoning, 356-371 ; children's medicines 
357; antidotes and emetics, 358; arsenic 
carbolic acid, camphor, chloral, copperas 
indigo, fly-paper, green vitriol, laudanum 
lead, matches, morphine, mushrooms 
opium, Paris green, peach-pits, potash 
quick-silver, rat's- bane, saltpetre, soda 
soothing syrups, strychnine, sumac, tartar 
emetic, toadstools, tobacco, wild-cherries, 
etc., etc., see Index of Poisons, 359-361 ; of 
wounds, 327. H, 571. O, 786. P, 902. 

Poisonous medicines, 357. 

Poisons, index of, 359; cautions, 357; see 
Poisoning. 

Polish fowls, 898. 

Poll-evil, H, 678, 704. 

Polypus, 267. H, in the nose, 619. 

Pores, 195 ; clogging, 476. 

Potash, burning by, 337. 

Poultices, 463. 

Poultry, care and treatment, 867, ff. 

Pox, O, 769. S, 802. C, 863. P, 897. 

Precautions in sickness, P, 874. 

Pregnancy, signs of, 394; habits during, 
395-398; cheerfulness in, 398; period of, 
399; albuminuria during, 398; disorders 
of, 400, ff ; medical advice, 398. 

Presbyopia, 2S8. 

Private diseases, 223. 

Privates, see Genital Organs. 

Proud flesh, 326. 

Prurigo, H, 622. 

Pruritis, 406. 

Pterygium, H, 650. D, 846. 

Pudenda, O, inflammation, 801. 

Puerperal fever, 415. O, 801. 

Pugilism, effects of, 147. 

Pulmonai-y arteries, 129, 

Pulse, its indications, 37, 134; at different 
ages, 37; in wrist, groin, neck and temple, 
320. H, 540. 

Pumiced feet, H, 669. 

Punctured wounds, 331. 

Pupil of the eye, 272. 

Purgatives, 105. 

Purging, 108. 

Purpura hemorrhagica, H, 699. 

Pus and lymph, 326. 

Pustules, O, 758. 

Putrid fever, D, 837. 

Quarter, false, H, 673. 

Quickening, 394. 

Quinsy, 176. Hg, 810. P, 880. 

Quittor, H, 665, 678. 

Rabies, 71. H, 552. O, 732. S, 792. D, 

828. 
Race horses, 506, 514. 
Rash, nettle, 249 ; scarlet, 249. 
Raw meat, worms in, 127, 266. 
Reading to the sick, 457; in health, 291. 
Recreation, mental, 486. 



INDEX. 



Rectum, polypus in, 267; protrusion, 127. 
0, protrusion, 750. Hg, protrusion, 816. 
D, protrusion, S46. 

Red, shooting the, turkeys, 900. 

Red-bird, fo ri d for, 916. 

Red mites, P, 901. B, 923. 

Red-wate* , O, 743, 764, 779. S, S04. 

Remedies choice of, 925 ; decoctions, dilu- 
tions, doses, infusions, solutions, tritura- 
tions and washes, 926; cerates, liniments, 
lotions and ointments, 926, 942-945; in 
the sick-room, 462. P, S74. 

Respiration, an index of disease, 38; or- 
gans of, 170; artificial, 359. H, 542; or- 
gans of, 59S. O, organs of, 752. S, or- 
gans of, 797. 

Respiratory organs, see Respiration. 

Reticulum, O, 735. 

Retina, 273. 

Rheumatism, 250; chronic, 256; acute or 
inflammatory, 252. H, 691. O, 780. S, 
804. P, 895. 

Rickets, 264. 

Rinderpest, 739, 777, 77S. 

Ringbone, H, 674, 678. 

Ringworm, H, 627. O, 762. C, 862. 

Rising of the lights, Hg, 813. 

Roaring, H, 614. 

Robin, food for, 916. 

Rob Roy, 818. 

Roots for horses, 718. 

Rot, S, 795. P, 899. 

Roup, P, 880. 

Rowing, effects of, 147. 

Rumen, O and S, 735. 

Rumination, O and S, 736. 

Rump-gland, B, obstruction, 922. 

Running, 147, 159, 485. 

Run-round, 20=5. 

Rupture, 354. * H, 576. O, 787. Hg, 816. 
B, 921. 

Russian cattle plague, 777. 

Rysdyk's Hambletonian, 579. 

Saddle-galls, 629, 678. 

Salivation, H, 5S8 D, 832. 

Salivary calculi, H, 589. 

Salivary fistula, H, 5S9. 

Salivary glands, 86. 

Salivation, 92. 

Sallenders, H, 627. 

Salt-rheum, 199; of the ear, 303. 

Salt-toAvels, 193. 

Sandcrack, H, 672, 678. 

Scab, S, 797. 

Scabies, 193. 

Scald-head, 199. 

Scalds, 335. D, 846. 

Scaly legs, P, 896. 

Scarlatina, 249. 

Scarlet fever, 243, 249, 259. H, 680. 

Scarlet rash, 249. 



Schlerotic coat, 271. 

Sciatica, 252. 

Scouring, H, 567, O, 746. 

Scratches, H, 622. 

Scrofula, 260. 

Scurfy skin, P, S99. 

Sea-bathing, 47S. 

Seamstress' cramp, 72. 

Sea-sickness, 53 

Sea-water, artificial, 478. 

Sedentary habit*. 4S5. 

Seedy toe, H, 669. 

Semi-circular canals of the ear, 296. 

Sewers, 345, 492. 

Sex, 373. 

Sheep, the, 789, ff. 

Sheep-pox, 802. 

Shins, sore, H, 673. 

Shock, 346. 

Shoeing, H, 727. 

Shoes, proper kinds, 480. 

Shooting the red, turkeys, 900. 

Shoulder-lameness, H, 710. 

Sick, care of the, 451, ff. 

Sick-headache, 51, 76. 

Sickness at the stomach. 103. 

Sick-room, air and warmth, 451 ; disinfect- 
ants, 453, light, 453; the bed, 454; furni- 
ture, 455; adornments, 455, 456; cleanli- 
ness, 456; watching, 457, 460; entertain- 
ment, 457; disturbances, 45S; notes, 459; 
precautions against infection, 460; visits, 
461; remedies, 462 ; food, 470; baths, 467; 
packs, 467; compresses, 464; poultices, 
463; fomentations, 465; massage, 466; 
injections, 466; emetics, 467 ; gargles, 467. 

Sidebone, H, 674. 

Sight, see Vision. 

Siskin, food for, 917. 

Sitting-fever, P, 906. 

Skeleton, 26, 27. H, 53S. O, 730. Hg, 
S06. 

Sketch; H, 620. O, 730. P S66. 

Skin, anatomy and physiology, 194; care, 
476; in late life, 440; vermin in, 477. 

Sleep, in health, 481; in late life, 444; in 
infancy, 430; loss of, 72; after meals, 482. 

Sleeping-apartments, 4S2 ; for the aged, 445. 

Sleeplessness, 72; in late life, 445. 

Sleepy staggers, H, 545, 546. 

Sling, for the arm, 352. H, 662. 

Slipperv-elm poultice, 464. 

Slobbers, H, 588. D, S32. 

Small-pox, 234, 237. H, 6S3. 

Smell, nerves of, 4S. 

Snail-shell of the ear, 296. 

Snakes, bites of, 331,. 

Sniffles, Hg, Si 3. D, S3S. See Snujles. 

Snuffles, of babes, 422. P, SSo. 

Snuffs, 174. 

Sole of the foot, H, 666. 

Solutions of remedies, 926. 



INDEX. 



Soothing syrups, 357, 430. 

Sore eyes, 277, ft*. B, 922. 

Sore foot, D, 846. B, 922. 

Sore head, P, 880, 889. 

Sore teats, O, 768. 

Sore throat, 175. H, 685. 0,753. ^,838. 
C, 859. P, 880. 

Sorrow, effects of, 144. 

Sour stomach, see Dyspepsia. 

Spanish fever, O, 779. 

Spasms, 56. C, 858. 

Spavin, bog, 653 ; bone, 654, 678. 

Spaying, Hg, 816. 

Speed, ultimate, H, 524, 537. 

Spinal cord, 46; inflammation, 67. 

Spinsters, follies of, 448. 

Spleen, 87. O, inflammation, 749. S, in- 
flammation, 1*04. Hg, inflammation, 816. 

Splenic fever, O, 773, 779. 

Splint, H, 662, 678. 

Sponge, O, 759. 

Spotted fever, 65. 

Sprains, 353. H, 709; hock, 658; knee, 
658; fetlock, 661 ; stifle, 661. O, 787. S, 
804. 

St. Anthony's fire, 250. 

St. Julien, 509. 

St. Vitus' dance, 57, 494. 

Stables, H, 725. 

Stabs, 331. H, 706. 

Staggers, H, see Sleepy, Grass, Mad and 
Stomach Staggers. O, grass, 738; mad, 
731. S, 791. Hg, 814. P, 894. 

Staking, H, 708. 

Stammering, 58. 

Starch poultice, 464. 

Star-gazer, H, 549. 

Starling, food for, 917. 

Starvation, 349. 

Steaming-bag, 603. 

Stifle-joint, H, sprained, 661. 

Stings, 334. H, 630. O, 762. 

Stomach, 87; inflammation, 97; spasm, 98. 
H, 632; pain in, 583; inflammation, 570. 
O, 735; inflammation, 742. D, inflam- 
mation, 833. C, inflammation, 860. P, 
inflammation, 893. 

Stomach-ache, see Dyspepsia and Vomiting. 

Stomach staggers, H, 545, 547, 563, 581. 

Stone in the kidneys or bladder, 214. H, 
637- 0,765. 

Stone-pock, 200. 

Strains, 354; see Sprains. 

Strangles, H, 690. O, 794. Hg, 810. 

Strangury, 211. 

Straw for horses, 719. 

Stretchers for the injured, 356. 

Strychnine, poisoning by, 361. 

Stuttering, 58. 

Sty on the eye, 276. 

Sty for hogs, 807. 

Suckling, of babes, 425. 



Suffocation, 344. 

Summer-complaint, 427. 

Sunburn, 196. 

Sunstroke, 63, 343. 

Suppuration, its prevention, 327. 

Surfeit, H, 692, 695. O, 762. D, 841. 

Swallow, the, 87. H, stricture of, 590. 

Swallowing, artificial, 359. 

Sweat malady, P, 906. 

Sweats, suddenly stopped, 108; excessive 

and offensive, 197. 
Swelling of the legs in pregnancy, 404. 
Swine-pox, 811. 
Swollen bones, O, 787. 
Swooning, 345. 
Sycosis, 198. 

Sympathetic nervous system, 49. 
Synovitis, H, 652. 

Table of horses' food, 722. 

Tail, H, itching of, 626. O, disease of, 784. 

Tan, 196. 

Tape- worm, 126. H, 577. 

Tapioca jelly, 475. 

Tartar emetic, poisoning by, 364. 

Taste, nerves of, 48. 

Tea, effects of, 150. 

Tears, 275. 

Teats, O, sore, 768. D, inflammation, 844. 

Teeth, growth and number, 85 ; irritation 
from, 309; aching, 90; in health, 479. H, 
558-562 ; caries and irregularities, 587. 

Teething, 90, 309, 428. C, 860. 

Telegraphists' cramp, 70. 

Temperature of the body, 35. 

Tendons, 30. 

Test-tubes, 290. 

Tetanus, 70, 149. H, 554. O, 733. S, 793. 

Tetter, H. 627 

Texas cattle plague, 778. 

Texas fever, O, 779. 

Theine, 150. 

Thermometer, 456; clinical, 35, 456. 

Thick-wind, H, 614. 

Thirst, an index of disease, 39. 

Thoracic duct, 134. 

Thorns, wounds by, 706. 

Thorough-pin, H, 652, 653. 

Three-year-old trotting, 537. 

Throat, sore, 175; polypus in, 267. H, sore, 
685 ; swollen, see Colds and Mumps; pus 
in, 616. O, sore, 753. D, sore, 838. C, 
sore, 859. 

Thrush, 94. H, in the feet, 670; in the 
mouth, 586. O, 739. S, 804. 

Thrush, B, food for, 915. 

Thumps, H, 591. 

Ticks, S, 798. D, 842. 

Time-record^, H, 517. 

Titmouse, food for, 916. 

Toast-water, 473. 

Tobacco, 151, 316, 495. 



xx:: 



INDEX, 



Toe, seedy. H. 669. 

Toe-nail , ingro w □ g : : -' 

Tongue, index of disease, 36: ulceration, 
97. H, 541: laceration, 70S; inflamma- 
tion, 5S5: hanging of, 55c. 0. black, 
740; inflammation of, 740, 

Tonsil, enlargement, 176. 

Tonsillitis. 

Toomache. 90. H. 587. 

I currieuet. ;::. 

Iread H 164,67s 

Trichinae, see Trichinosis. 

Trichino-is. 266. Hg. SoS. 

Triturations of remedies. 926. 

Trommer's tests, 218 

Trotters, bred from pacers, 524, ff; breeds, 
528; colts, 535. 

Trotting, origin, 517; speed, 524. 

Trusses. __:. 

Tubercles. O. ------ 

Tumor. OTarian, 3S9. 

Tumors. 0. 759. D. Si6. ?. S97. 

I urkeys. : : - 

Turnip poultice, 464. 

Two-y ear-old trotting. ' ] ~ 

Tympanitis. 0. 757 S, 794. 

Tvmpanum of the ear, 298. 

Typhoid fever, 226. H. 6S1. 

Typhus fever. 2:$. 0. 7.16. 772. 

Udder. ir.damntaticn. H. f^t. 0. inflam- 
mation. 76S S. ir.darr.rr.aticr.. 795 

Ulceration, see Mouth, Nipples, Womb, etc. 

Ulcers. H. 702. 0. 787. 

Unconsciousness, 346. 

Ureters. c:o. H. 632. 

Urethra, H, inflammation, 643, 

Urinar argans, anatomy and physiology, I 
2IO,ff. ^543,631.632. O.'-f'r 

Urination, difficult, 211, 213; involur. 
: : : : in late life, 440; in pregnancv. _ ; 

--:■ 

Urine, index of disease, 39 ; tests for, 39, 40, 
: . S : see Uritiation. H, 543 : bloody 
scanty, 637; excessive, 636. O, bloody, 
-t'_ excess ve - 5: retention of. 765. 

Urinometer, 40. 

Vagina. H. inversion. c'_t : in darr.rr. aticn. 

642. 
Valves, of the heart : " : of the vein;. 131. 
Varicose veins, 16S; in pregnancv, 407. 

H. S«* 
/eins, H, inflammation, 595; swollen, \y 

Ventilation. 48S; in sick-roorr.s. 4.51. H. 

713. P. 869. B. 912. 
Vermica. 201. 

Vertigo. 52. H. 5x9. B. 920 
Vestibule 0: the ear. cay. 
Vice, inherited. 496. 

: :" :he intestines. Sa. 
Virtue, inherited, 496. 



Vision, disorders of. 276. H. obscured c_t 
Visits :: the sick, 461 

iting : : of blood, 98: in babes, 242 in 
pregnancy, 400; by emetics. 35S. D, 833. 

Wakefulness, 72. 

Walking, effects. J.S5. 

Wall-paper, poisonous. 362, 

Warmth, for the aged. 447: artificial. 342. 

Warts. :::. H bet 0. 75S D. S46. 

Washerwoman's itch, 199, 

Washes, 926; see Lotions. 

Watchers, notes of. 459; rules for, 4.51, ft. 

Water, for drinking. 489. 

Water on the brain, 64. O, 784. 

Wattr-'traxy. S. 5-cc. 

Water- :rtt. ?. : t: . 

Water-founder. H, 666. 

Weaning of babes, 424-428. 

Weed, H, 689, 695. 

Weights and measures. 92 S. 

Wells, near privies, 491. 

Wet-nurse. 4 : 5 

Whirl-bone, H, dislocated. 711. 

Whisker dyes. 365. 4.79 

Whistling," H. 614! 

White ecu.:. ?. tat 

Whites, 38a 

Whitlow, 203. 

Whccpir.g-ctugh. :5c 

»ws, imprudence of, \^8. 

WlldFlowef. H. :t 

Wind. H. broken. 613: thick. 614. 

Wkad-gzlls. H. 652. 65: 

Windpipe, 171. H. sounds in, 605. 

Wind- putts. H. 653. 

Wind- sucking H 581. 

Withers, H. fistnk eke 678 - - : 

Wolf-tooth, H 587 

Womb, 373; failing. 3S5: inflammation, 
387; ulceration. 391. H, inversion, 641. 
O, falling - dammation. 766. D. 
rrctrusicn t_t. 

Wood-evil. O. 743. 

Worms, in the bowels ::: in the flesh, 
266. H, in the skin, 630: in the b: 
577 0. in the back. 761 : in the b 
7't: in the air- tube- -' the liver, 

7:: 5. in the bowels. 7a: Hg in the 
bowels. Si 5. D, in the bowels. S35. P, 
in the bowels : B. in windpipe. 919. 

Wounds. 3-5-333 : by nails, glass etc --: 
by fire-am- 537 by explosions J37. H, 
contused ~:y incised, 706: punctured, 
706: lacerated, v - care ::. 7:^. 0. 
7S7. S. B04. D. 5^6. P. 902. 

Yaws, ?. 88a 

Yeast poultice, ^64, 

Yellow fever. 230. 

Yellow hammer, food for. 1 1 - 

Yellcvs. s-:-: y.:.\ ft: C St: 



:pjl:r,t i. 



MAI AID HIS DISEASES. 




THE INTERNAL ORGANS. 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



PART I. 



MAN AND HIS DISEASES. 



CHAPTER I. 
THE FRAME-WORK OF THE BODY. 

GENERAL REMARKS. 

IjfQW/HE writer or lecturer on the human body is often surprised to learn 
how vague a knowledge the general reader or hearer has of his own 




wonderful mechanism. Though many talk familiarly of the organs 
^p-5 upon whose constant action life itself depends, though they may be 
reasonably intelligent as to the promotion and maintenance of general 
health, there is a remarkable lack of information with reference, not only 
to the structure and offices of the parts of the human economy, but also to 
their general appearance, and even their location. 

The authors of the present work, conscious of the proneness of writers 
to presume too much upon the reader's knowledge of subjects so familiar to 
themselves, will take pains, by description and illustration, to present a 
clear picture of the several parts of the body before advancing to the 
treatment of their diseases. Experience has shown that it is much easier to 
induce a patient to take needed treatment when he can see rational physio- 
logical reasons therefor, than when he is to act under the bare direction of a 
physician. The imparting of a clear outline of the main facts of anatomy 
and physiology is an important step toward the successful treatment of a 
patient. It is therefore sincerely hoped that this part of the book will be 
of great service to the profession, as well as in self-treatment. 

25 




i. THE HUMAN SKELETON. 

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28 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



To insure freshness of knowledge, and consequent ease in understand- 
ing the treatment, the description of the separate organs is given immedi- 
ately before the consideration of their diseases. There being no special 
divisions in this work devoted to the disorders of the bones and muscles, we 
shall present them in this place, thus adopting an arrangement by which 
the reader will first see the general outline of the body. 

THE SKELETON. 

The Skeleton is composed of more than two hun- 
dred bones, arranged and distributed as shown, in the main, 
in figure I, and classified in the subjoined table. It is readily 
seen that the skeleton is the framework of the body, giving 
it form and firmness. There are three main cavities formed, 
the skull, the chest, and the pelvis, each making a strong 
protection for the organs which it contains. 




3. Bones and Cartilages of the Foot. 

The Joints, in which the bones are united to make 
the skeleton, are formed in such a way as to admit of various 
motions, except in the skull, where the bones are dove- 
tailed and immovable. 

Ligaments. — In the movable joints, the ends of the 
bones are bound together by ligaments of fiber, of a shiny, 
2. Spinal Column, silvery appearance, so strong and firmly joined that they 
often remain whole after the attached bone has been drawn asunder. A 
" sprained joint " is one in which the ligament has been strained, bringing 
about a condition often worse than a fracture of a bone. 

Cartilage. — To the firmness and strength secured by these liga- 
ments, elasticity is added by layers of cartilage, a white, smooth, tough 
and pliable substance, which covers the ends of the bones in the joints. 
This cartilage is supplied with a fluid, resembling the white of an egg, 



MAN THE FRAME-WORK OF THE BODY 29 

which is secreted by a little sac as rapidly as it is needed for lubricating the 
joint. Facility of movement is secured by this fluid, and by the cartilage a 
cushion is formed which prevents, or greatly reduces, jarring of the joints 
and body. 

The spinal column, or back-bone, whose office it is to connect the 
main divisions of the body, and protect the vital and delicate spinal cord, or 
marrow, is composed of twenty-six parts, or vertebras, whose joints are 
very copiously supplied with cushions of cartilage. In this arrangement 
we see a wise provision, for in the absence of it the whole body, and es- 
pecially the nervous system, would be subjected to painful shocks, even in 
the act of walking. 

Structure of Bones. — If a piece of fresh bone be kept in vinegar, 
or other dilute acid, for a sufficient time, it may be bent without breaking. 
If fire be applied to another piece, it becomes very brittle. By the first ex- 
periment the mineral part of the bone is removed, by the second, the ani- 
mal. These two are the elements of bone, and their proportion depends 
upon age and health. By uniting them, the strength of the mineral is 
added to the toughness and elasticity of the animal. The mineral being 
dominant in the old, and the animal in the young, the bones of the former 
are more easily broken, those of the latter more easily bent. 

On the surface a bone is smooth, white, and exceedingly hard and 
dense, as every one has often noticed. Through the center is a tube-like 
opening containing the " marrow," an oily substance through which the 
life and growth of the bone are sustained. In the region of this marrow, 
and at the large extremities, the bones are porous, lightness being thus added 
to the firmness of the hard covering. Not only is the bone tough, firm 
light and elastic, but the highest degree of strength is obtained by the 
adoption, wherever the location will permit, of the curved outline, the 
strongest known in mechanics. 

Growth of Bone. — That a bone undergoes changes in growth, as 
other parts, is shown by an oft-repeated experiment. If an animal be 
fed on madder, the bone becomes tinged with red, and this color eventually 
disappears if the madder is discontinued ; or is seen in parallel lines, with 
white spaces between them, if the madder be given and discontinued at in- 
tervals. Bone-growth is also illustrated in the repair after a fracture. 

The treatment of fractures, sprains and other disorders of the skeleton 
will be given under the chapter on Emergencies and Domestic Surgery. 

THE MUSCLES. 

The Muscles are, for the most part, spread upon the outside of the 
skeleton, and constitute the flesh. They give the more minute outlines to 




4. The Muscles. 



30 



THE PRINCIPAL MUSCLES AND THEIR OFFICES. 



THE HEAD. 



Occipito-frontalis, controls the scalp and eyebrows. 

Orbicularis Palpebrce, closes the eye. 

Levator Palpebrce, opens the eye. 

Recti (four), effect the motions of the eyeball. 

Temporal and Masseter, raise the lower iaw. 

THE NECK. 

Platysma Myoides and Sterno-mastoid, draw the head ""orward. 
Scaleni, are the muscles which turn the neck from side to side. 

THE TRUNK AND UPPER LIMBS- 

Pectoralis, draws the arm forward. 

Latissimus Dorsi, draws the arm back. 

Trapezius, Serratus Magnus and Rhomboideus, control the shoulder-blade. 

Intercostal, are the sets which move the ribs in breathing. 

External and Internal Oblique, draw the trunk forward. 

Erector Spina?, draws the trunk back. 

Deltoid, raises the arm. 

Teres Major, lowers the arm. 

Subscapulars and Spinatus, turn the upper arm around. 

Biceps, raises the forearm up. 

Triceps, draws out the forearm. 

Pronator and Supinator, turn the forearm around. 

Flexor Carpi Radialis, Flexor Carpi Ulnaris, Extensor Carpi Radialis and Extensot 
Carpi Ulnaris, move the hand, while over thirty muscles are involved in the varied move- 
ments of the fingers. 

THE LOWER LIMBS. 

Iliacus, Psoas Magnus, Pectineus and Adductor, draw the thigh forward. 
Gluteus and Pyriformis, draw the thigh back. 
Sartorius, lifts one thigh across the other. 
Rectus and Vastus, draw the leg forward. 
Biceps and Gracilis, draw the leg back. 

Tibialis, Peroneus, Gastrocnemius and Soleus, control the movements of the foot, 
while twenty muscles are involved in those of the toes. 



31 



32 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the body, and are the instruments of motion, being attached to the bones 
which they are severally designed to move. Their great number, about four 
hundred, renders it impracticable to give a detailed knowledge of all in this 
brief treatise; nor is this requisite. All that it is important for the reader 
to know regarding them, their action and offices, can be gained from a study 
of figure 4, with the distribution of the principal muscles which accom- 
panies it. 

Tendons. — The ends of the muscles, by which they are attached to 
the bones, are called tendons, or sinews, are very 
strong and of a silvery appearance. By placing the 

hand in the angle of the elbow, 

when the fist is drawn up, or 

behind the knee when the foot 

is drawn back, the tendon will 

be felt as a hard cord. 

Contraction. — Under the 

impulse of the will, or upon 

other stimulus, the muscles have 

the power of contracting, or 

drawing up, by which different 

parts of the body are set in mo- 
tion. By an act of the will the 

head is, for example, turned in 

either of several ways. Again, 

without the will, and even in 

spite of it, the heart beats by 

muscular force, and the muscles 

connected with breathing keep 

up their continuous action. 

It is thus seen that some of 

the muscles are voluntary, or 
under the control of the will, and others involun- 
tary, wholly or in part independent of the will. 
Instructive observations, and a more detailed explanation of muscular action 
will be found in the introduction on the Nervous System. It is .nerve- 
influence that effects muscular contraction, but the method of its exercise is 
not understood. The intimate connection between disorders of the nerves 
and those of the muscles will be better understood, however, after studying 
them together in the place above cited. 

Structure of Muscles. — Upon examination, a piece of muscle, or 
flesh, is seen to be red, and composed of bundles of fibers, lying at different 




5. Biceps in Forearm. 




Tendons of Forearm ant- 
Hand. 



MAN THE FRAME-WORK OF THE BODY. 



33 



angles, popularly called the " grain." These, we learn by use of the mi- 
croscope, are composed of finer fibers, marked by parallel lines. By the 
action of the nerves, the sections of the muscles indicated by these lines are 
drawn together, thus producing a contraction; but how this takes place is a 
question relating to nerve-action in general, hence little understood. By 
this contraction, a muscle is made shorter but thicker, but it is not enlarged, 
as many suppose. 

Disorders of the muscles are generally symptoms of disease in other 
parts, and do not here call for systematic treatment. On the importance of 
exercise, and its kinds, the reader is referred to the subject of Hygiene. 




7. Sections of Muscles, a and b, Bundles of Fibers Magnified. 
c, The same showing Layers. 



1 



CHAPTER II. 

SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 

JO get a rational view of the treatment of the diseases which we are 
now approaching, it is necessary to know something of the normal 
condition of the body, and to be able to recognize the signs which 
^r<) indicate a departure from the same. 

The symptoms of disease are of two kinds, those which are known to 
the sufferer, consisting of pain and distress, and* those which are seen by 
the observer, such as physical changes in the patient, or the functions of the 
body. The latter field is the more important to the general reader, and 
comes within the special domain of domestic medicine. It is through these 
manifestations that we are able to form a clear idea of the ailments of young 
children and animals in particular, and to successfully treat their many 
disorders. 

The most important points in detecting different morbid conditions are 
the color of the skin, the general appearance of the face, the temperature 
of the body, the condition of the tongue and eyes, the pulse, the breathing, 
thirst, appetite, and the excretions from the bladder and bowels. 

THE FACE. 

The color of the face is often quite an important sign, and aids much 
in detecting and locating disease. 

Unusual redness indicates an inflammatory condition, and is noticeable 
in inflammations of the brain, apoplexy, certain eruptive diseases, and vari- 
ous fevers. When the redness is circumscribed, presenting a circular red 
spot on the cheek, it indicates a lung complication. In inflammation of the 
lungs, this spot is on the cheek corresponding to the side affected ; in hectic 
fever, occurring during consumption or other exhausting diseases, on one or 
both cheeks. 

Extreme paleness is due to loss of blood, dropsy, or a scrofulous state 
of the system, and is present in various low fevers. 

In some diseases of the heart, apoplexy, congestion of the lungs, and the 
last stage of cholera, the face becomes livid. 

34 



MAN SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 35 

Diseases of the liver, or obstructions in its various ducts, give a yellow 
or brown appearance to the skin. 

THE TEMPERATURE. 

The temperature of the skin and body is of great value as a sign of 
disease. Nature has so adapted the various functions of the animal 
economy that the temperature of each species is the same in all portions of 
the globe. The Greenlander has the same temperature as the man at the 
equator. 

In man, the mean or average heat of the body is placed at 98|°F., or 
what is known as blood heat, and any considerable change from this stand- 
ard is an indication of some disorder of the system. The temperature is 
higher in all acute inflammatory diseases and fevers. It is lower than 
normal in many chronic diseases, and then indicates debility and a low state 
of the system. The lower temperature is also found in certain brain dis- 
orders and the collapse of cholera. 

The best instrument for determining the temperature of the body is 
the clinical or fever thermometer. Since this valuable instrument has been 
in common use, it has done much toward the early and correct detection 
and location of disease. Sometimes the surface of the body feels cool to 
the touch, from imperfect circulation in the part, or from a low state of the 
system, as in consumption, and there is no evidence of fever except in the 
palms of the hands, or on the soles of the feet; but when the thermometer 
is held under the tongue, a marked elevation above the normal is noticed 
at once. This is a very important sign in consumption especially, and 
many times we are able to detect the deposit of tubercular matter in the 
lungs long before there is any evidence of this disease in the loss of flesh or 
cough. In well-ordered households thermometers are used for the regula- 
tion of the temperature of the air. It is of scarcely less importance that 
one of the clinical thermometers be in the house. Its use can be easily ac- 
quired, and w T ill often be an invaluable aid. 

The temperature is usually highest in the eruptive fevers, scarlet fever 
producing the greatest rise; if it should rise to 105 , it would indicate a 
severe form of the disease, and if 108 should be reached, a fatal termina- 
tion would likely ensue. 

Sometimes nervous diseases present indications of severe cerebral con- 
gestions, and when the thermometer is applied the temperature is found to 
be normal. On the other hand, hysterical patients may have severe conges- 
tion of the brain, and if the thermometer be not applied, and the increase 
of temperature noticed, the disorder may be mistaken for hysteria, and a 
fatal result follow. 



36 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



THE TONGUE. 



A coated tongue is not always a sign of disease. Those who use to- 
bacco generally show such a condition, while others, upon rising in the 
morning, present a like symptom, and still enjoy good health. Yet this 
member frequently presents indications of disorders of the body and of 
their importance. 

In the various inflammatory disorders, rheumatism, and diseases of the 
lungs and stomach, there is usually a white coating. In the early stage of 
typhoid fever, malignant fevers, scarlet fever, small-pox, and other disor- 
ders attended with great debility, the tongue has a thick, dirty-white appear- 
ance. A yellow coating is found in bilious disorders, derangements of 
digestion, and affections of the bowels, as diarrhoea, and also in quinsv. A 
brown condition accompanies chronic disorders of the liver and bowels, the 
latter stages of tvphoid fever, and other putrid states of the svstem. When 
the blood becomes extremely vitiated in the last stage of typhus or other 
malignant fevers, small-pox. scarlet fever, measles and dvsenterv, the tongue 
is of a black appearance, and indicates an unfavorable termination. 

A bright-red tongue is found in scarlet fever, and, when the papilla? are 
raised, it presents the appearance of a strawberry, and thus is named 
"strawberrv tongue." A red tongue is also found in some inflammations 
of the stomach, bowels or lungs. 

When convalescence approaches, the coating, of whatever character, 
begins to pass off, and when this commences at the edges and is gradual, it 
indicates a speedy return to health. If it commences at the center, the re- 
covery is more protracted. If the tongue clears off suddenly, leaving the 
surface red and dry, it indicates a more severe stage of the disease, if, 
however, as in scarlet fever, it clears off suddenly, and remains red but 
moist, it indicates a favorable course, especially if there is a corresponding 
decline in the temperature and pulse. When the tongue is large and flabby, 
and the impressions of the teeth are noticeable in the edges, there is usually 
some disorder of the digestive organs. 

If the tongue is sharp and pointed, with a dry streak in the center, 
and is protruded from the mouth with a trembling motion, it indicates a 
tvphoid state. 

THE EYES. 

The eyes also furnish some of the signs which make up the picture of 
disease. In inflammation of the eyes, measles, in some of the disorders of 
the brain, in fevers where there is severe congestion of the brain, the eyes 
are red. In jaundice and other disorders of the liver, thev are vellow. In 
low forms of fever, they present a brownish hue. 



MAN SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 87 

The pupils are dilated when there is pressure on the brain; in some 
convulsions of young children, they are very large. Contraction of the 
pupils sometimes follows this condition, and also occurs in inflammation of 
the membrane covering the brain. 

When a collection of water takes place on the brain, the eyes some- 
times turn in, as they often do also before convulsions. 

THE PULSE. 

Whenever disease is present, especially if of an inflammatory character, 
there is usually evidence of such condition in the character of the circula- 
tion. Many important points are determined by a careful examination of 
the pulse. The character of the heart's action and the frequency of its con- 
tractions can be determined quite clearly by this means, and while it re- 
quires much practice and a careful education of the touch to detect certain 
conditions which are significant to the physician, many of the ordinary 
changes can be determined by an observance of the following rules: 

The pulse is found in the artery at the inner side of the wrist. The 
first two fingers should be placed lightly at this point and the pulsations will 
be readily felt. 

In health, the pulsations of an adult are from 65 to 75 per minute ; in 
children, 80 to 90; in infants, no to 120. Any considerable change from 
these figures, unless the increase is the result of exercise or fright, is indic- 
ative of disease. In some cases the pulse may be considerably lower, go- 
ing down even to 40 per minute, and still not be the result of disease; yet, 
if this condition is not constitutional, but comes on suddenly, it is a sign of 
pressure on the brain and may be the forerunner of paralysis or apoplexy. 

In fever, the pulse is usually higher, in some instances reaching 150 or 
even 200, either of which rates, if the action is weak, is an evidence of 
great danger. 

A strong pulse which feels hard under the finger, and is increased in 
frequency, is an indication of inflammation in some part. One that is 
feeble and easily compressed by the fingei", though it may be frequent, de- 
notes exhaustion and a low state of the system; one that is small and wiry, 
passing under the finger with a sharp impulse, feeling like a thread, is a 
sign of probable complication of the brain, and of a grave stage of the dis- 
ease when found in a low fever. When the pulse is feeble and irregular, 
sometimes soft and hardly felt, then full, occasionally losing one or two 
beats, then rapid in motion, there is some disease of the heart, either func- 
tional or organic; and if such a condition occurs while pursuing the ordi- 
nary avocations of life, the patient should be placed under the care of some 
person skilled in the treatment of such disorders. 



38 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

The pulse may be intermittent from slight nervous influence and be no 
occasion for alarm; but if it takes on an intermittent character during the 
course of serious disease, with sudden prostration, it is an unfavorable symp- 
tom, and forebodes a fatal issue. 

A regular pulse, one that denotes a state of health, feels full and soft, 
passes under the finger with a firm, steady movement, and is unaffected by 
moderate exercise or emotion, and in short people, it is quicker than in those 
who are tall. 

RESPIRATION. 

The contraction and expansion of the chest which constitute breath- 
ing occur fifteen to twenty times per minute in health, that is, about one 
inspiration to every four beats of the pulse. One can readily see that this 
function, so intimately connected with the action of the heart, must neces- 
sarily be subject to many changes when disease disturbs circulation. 

Any obstruction to the free entrance of the air into the lungs increases 
the number of respirations. In inflammation of the lungs or the lining 
membrane of the chest, this free action is impeded by the engorgement 
of the blood-vessels, and the respiration is increased, in some cases being as 
high as sixty per minute. This condition also exists when a portion of the 
lungs is not capable of expansion, because of deposits of tubercular matter, 
infiltration with fluids, or spasmodic contraction of the air tubes. 

When the obstruction is great and the respiration is laborious, there 
seems to be no intermission in inspiration and expiration of the air, but a 
continuous effort. This is specially noticeable in croup and asthma, in 
which all the muscles involved in this important function are brought 
into use. 

When there is serious affection of the abdominal organs, as inflamma- 
tion of the bowels, the muscles of the chest only are used in breathing; but 
when there is severe inflammation of the lungs or pleura, the abdominal 
muscles perform this function. 

Irregular breathing occurs in brain affections, and, if intermittent, is an 
unfavorable symptom ; loud, snoring breathing accompanies apoplexy ; slow 
breathing is found in cases of feeble heart-action, and when the patient is 
unconscious from any cause. 

THE APPETITE. 

When the human body needs new material to repair the waste con- 
stantly going on, it makes its wants known by hunger and thirst. There 
is no positive knowledge as to the cause of these conditions, but they are 
probably due to nervous influence brought to bear on the stomach, and 
usually are subject to habit, to a considerable degree. When meals are 



MAN SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 39 

taken at regular hours, a habit is formed, and at the stated time the nerve 
sends out the impulse to the glands in the stomach, the juices are thrown 
out, and the irritation they produce on the lining membrane of this organ 
is supposed to cause what is known as hunger. This process is often de- 
ranged or blunted by the excessive use of non-nutritious food, of tobacco, 
opium, and alcoholic beverages, by irregularity in taking food, by sedentary 
habits and the like, the result being impaired appetite. 

Loss of appetite during acute diseases should always be respected, as it 
is nature's protest against performing labor when sick or deranged. The 
practice of forcing food into the stomach at these times is pernicious, and 
often retards the cure. 

An unnatural or voracious appetite not unfrequently attends disorders 
of the digestive organs, chlorosis and the presence of worms. 

THIRST. 

Excessive thirst, if persistent, demands attention, as it is a mark of dis- 
ease. If attended with a large flow of urine, it indicates diabetes. When 
it accompanies inflammatory and other fevers, it should be gratified, be- 
cause it is nature's demand for a new supply, of the fluids which the abnor- 
mal heat so rapidly uses up. The excessive thirst, with vomiting, which 
is caused by inflammation of the stomach, should be relieved by small 
draughts of water or, better still, small bits of ice dissolved on the tongue. 

THE URINE. 

To the physician, the excretions of the kidneys are of the first import* 
ance in making up a picture of a diseased condition. To ascertain their 
special characteristics and their importance in many diseases, one must be 
conversant with the science of medicine and practiced in the clinical and 
microscopical examination of the urine. In general, these matters are out 
of the reach of the non-professional reader, and thorough directions upon 
them are therefore impracticable in a work of this kind. There are, how- 
ever, many particulars as to the color, quantity and nature of the urine, in- 
dicative of disease, which are easily recognized by any one. 

An adult in health will pass an average of about forty ounces, or two 
and one half pints in twenty-four hours. Healthy urine is of a light-straw 
color, and has a specific gravity of 1020 to 1025, the standard being water at 
1000. The instrument for determining the specific gravity is the urin- 
ometer, which consists of two glass tubes; one of them is open at the top 
so as to receive the other, which is small, sealed, graduated, and having a 
bulb filled with quicksilver at the lower end. The first named of these 
tubes is filled with water, the other is dropped into it, and when it is at rest, 



40 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the figure on its scale at the surface is iooo.' The denser the fluid to be 
tested, the higher will be the figure which reaches the surface, and thus the 
specific gravity of a fluid can be accurately found. In Bright's Disease, the 
specific gravity is generally lower than normal, below 1015; but some- 
times it is very high in certain stages, reaching even 1094. In the latter 
instance, if boiled, it curdles up like milk and the addition of a few drops of 
dilute nitric acid will cause a deposit in the bottom of a test-tube, of a gray- 
ish-white substance like the white of an egg cooked. 

In diabetes, the urine has a specific gravity ranging from 1025 to 
1040, is found in large quantities, sometimes several quarts in twenty-four 
hours, foams when voided, and has a sweetish smell. When one is passing a 
large quantity of urine, accompanied with great thirst, dryness of the skin and 
loss of flesh, he should consult a physician at once, detailing these symptoms. 
In jaundice, gall-stones, or other disorders of the liver, 
the urine is of a dark-yellow or saffron color. In fever, 
it is red, or high-colored, and scanty. In children with 
worms, it is milky, and passed quite often in small 
quantities. It may be bloody and red, or dark, in hemor- 
rhage of the kidneys or bladder; and slimy in catarrhal or 
other diseases of these organs. In hysteria, it is copious, 
clear, colorless, and with a specific gravity of 1007. It is 
dark or black, with foul smell, in putridity. In old age, 
it is dark-colored, with rank smell. In rheumatic fever, it 
is strongly acid, turning blue litmus paper bright red. 

There may be frequent desire to pass urine, with burn- 
ing, scalding feeling and many other symptoms, all sug- 
gesting inflammation. A small stream, passed with 
effort, indicates stricture of the canal leading from the 
bladder. Irritation and pain over the bladder, if accompanied with heat 
and fever, are marks of inflammation of that organ. 




Urinometer. 



THE BOWELS. 

Excretions of the bowels vary much during health, in color, quantity 
and consistence, so that they are not of so much importance as the urine, 
unless they are considered in connection with obvious diseases of the system. 
Yet there are some characteristics in them that can be studied with profit. 

Constipation results from inflammation, muscular debility, inaction of 
the lower intestines, general debility of the system, or deficient bile in the 
discharges. When it results from inflammation, there are severe pain, stiff 
feeling of the abdomen, and heat; when from muscular debility, there is a 
loss of expulsive power; in inaction of the intestines, there is a loss of the 



MAN SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 41 

nervous impulse which produces the worm-like movement of the bowels, 
resulting from debility of the nervous system, or paralysis; lack of bile, na- 
ture's cathartic, is indicated by light-colored, grayish, lumpy stools. 

Very dark discharges, when not due to the nature of the food, arise 
from excess of bile. In infants, green evacuations are due to irritation and 
an acid condition of the excretions. In cholera, the discharges are like rice- 
water and are made up of the white portion of the blood. Bloody stools 
usually attend dysentery and piles, the former of which is also attended 
with straining, pressing pain during evacuation, and frequent desire to 
empty the bowels; while in the latter, the discharges are covered with 
blood, or large quantities of blood pass before or after the other excretions. 
When the passages are attended with slimy mucus, ulceration or catarrh of 
the bowels is indicated; if they consist of small lumps or pieces, they prob- 
ably result from constriction of the bowels; if they are involuntary, a low 
state of the system or loss of muscular power is the probable cause, while 
such a condition during typhoid fever points to paralysis and is of grave 
import. The peculiar yellow-ochre color noticeable in typhoid fever is 
evidence of an ulceration in the glands of the intestines. 





THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 
A— Cerebrum. B— Cerebellum. 



42 



CHAPTER III. 
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

*T is fitting that we should first give the structure and treatment of the 
nervous system, because its condition, as we shall soon learn, has such a 
marked influence upon all other parts of the body. There is also a 
^pr peculiar interest in its study, because it is the medium for the wonderful 
phenomena of thought, feeling, and volition, whose possession and exercise 
give man the first place among created beings. 

The substance of the whole nervous system is composed of two elements, 
distinguishable with the miscroscope : First, nerve-fibers, the white sub- 
stance , which are delicate white 
filaments, the smallest of which are 
but i-ioooo of an inch in diameter. 
These are arranged in parallel order, 
and combine to form the nei'ves, 
whose branches and trunks average 
about 1-2000 of an inch in diameter. 
Second, nerve-cells, the gray tis- 
sues, a grayish, granular substance 
composed of minute cells, from 
1-4000 to 1-300 of an inch in diam- 
eter. A collection or group of this 
substance is called a nervous center, 
or ganglion, and, wherever it is 
found, is intermingled with nerve- 
fibers. Many of the cells have little branches which unite with the fibers. 
It is the office of the nerve-cells to generate nervous fower at their centers, 
like a galvanic battery; the nerve-fibers, through their delicate lines, 
transmit this power. 

It is of the greatest importance that the distinction between the two 
elements just named, and that between their offices, be clearly maintained. 

43 




10. Magnified Nerve- Ganglion, from a cat. 



44 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



We recognize two divisions in the nervous system: 
i. The Cerebro-Spinal System, including the Brain, Spinal Cord and 
Nerves. 

2. The Sympathetic System. 

THE CEREBRO-SPINAL SYSTEM. 

The Brain. — The brain is the largest group of nervous matter in the 
body. Its weight reaches nearly fifty ounces in the average adult man, and 
rather more than forty-five ounces in the adult woman. In man it is heavier 
than in any other animal, excepting the elephant and the whale; in propor- 
tion to the weight of the body, it is inferior only to those of some song birds. 

The divisions of the brain are the 
cerebrum, the cerebellum, the medulla 
oblongata, and the special nervous 
centers. 

The Cerebrum, which constitutes 
about nine-tenths of the mass of the 
human brain, is located in the upper 
and front part of the skull, and is 
almost completely divided asunder 
by a broad and deep furrow which 
runs from the front to the back. 

The winding narrow furrows 
which mark the surface of the two 
large lobes thus formed, are about 
an inch in depth. The interior of the 
cerebrum is composed almost wholly 
of the white nerve-fibers ; the exterior 
is a thin layer of the grayish nerve- 
cells, which follows the furrows in all 
their deep and intricate convolutions. 
The cerebrum is the seat of the intellectual powers, and hence is the 
most exalted orgairin the body, having authority, so to speak, over all oth- 
ers. Since its power, as noted above, depends upon the amount of nerve- 
cells, or exterior grayish substance, in its composition, it is readily seen that 
it is admirably adapted to a high degree of intellectual activity, for its deep 
and complex furrows furnish an area for the distribution of the cells many 
times greater than its visible surface. While in the lower animals, in chil- 
dren, and in men uncivilized or mentally undeveloped, the furrows are in- 
significant, in mature and civilized man they are very deep, and the cere- 
brum is remarkably developed, indicating intellectual superiority. 




A A. 



ii. Top View of the Cerebkum. 
-Deep Longitudinal Furrow. B B. — Lobes. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



45 



The Cerebellum, situated behind and beneath the cerebrum, is also 
composed of two lobes, nerve-fibers constituting the main part of the 
interior, and nerve-cells the exterior. It has, however, deeper and more 
complicated furrows, which are separated at the surface merely by narrow, 
closely-lying, crescent-shaped ridges. Thus, though it is in bulk many 
times less than the cerebrum, its convolutions admit a proportionately larger 
quantity of nerve-cells, and consequently give to the organ a great nervous 
power; we do not say intellectual, because it is, in all probability, not the 
medium for the action of the intellectual faculties. Its office has not been 
determined with much precision, but it is known to have an intimate rela- 
tion to the voluntary movements. In operations upon birds for experiment, 

the removal of parts of the cere- 
bellum have caused only confusion 
and lack of control in the motions of 
the body, which disappeared when 
the injury healed, showing that this 
organ has power of giving definite 
direction to the volunta?y movements^ 
but does not originate them. 

The Medulla Oblongata is a large, 
cord-like combination of nerve-fibers 
which come together in great num- 
bers from the cerebrum and cere- 
bellum, seen in figure 13. Passing 
down through the skull, it enters the 
spinal column, and is thereafter 
known as the spinal cord, or marrow. 
Within the medulla oblongata is 
the " vital knot," or " vital point," 
so named because its destruction is 
attended with immediate death. At 
this point arise the nerves which control respiration, and when it is de- 
stroyed or seriously injured, breathing stops, and death is precipitated. This 
fact will suggest that in any brain disorder a disturbance of the breathing 
is generally to be regarded as an alarming symptom. 

Special Nervous Centers. — Of these there are five. Of two of 
them we know little; a third has an important influence on the sight, and 
a fourth on smell ; the fifth originates the impulse which sets the voluntary 
muscles in motion, and to it are borne impressions or sensations of objects 
outside of the body. The functions of these three centers are determined 
by experiments on birds, similar to those noted above. 




12. Rear and Base of the Brain. 

C. — Cerebellum, with Ridges and Furrows. M. — 

Upper end of the Spinal Cord, below the 

Medulla Oblongata, see Fig. 14. A. — 

Rear View of the Cerebrum. 



46 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

The Spinal Cord. — This runs the entire length of the spinal column, 
or backbone. Though it is composed of the same two elements as the or- 
gans described above, the order is changed, the nerve-cells being on the inside. 
Two furrows, one on the front side, the other on the back, run along this 
cord, leaving a half on either side of the spinal column. This division is 
of importance, and should be carefully noted. 

The Nerves are bundles of the white nerve-fibers, acting as lines of 
communication between the different parts of the body and the nervous 
centers. In the cerebro-spinal system, they are classed as " spinal " and 
*' cranial." 

The Spinal Nerves are enveloped each in a sheath of strong, firm tis- 
sue, which gives them a silvery, shiny appearance. They pass off in pairs 
from the spinal cord, through the joints of the bone, to their respective 
parts of the body, one nerve of the pair starting from either side of the^ 




13. Transverse Section of the Spinal Cord. 

a a. — Spinal Nerves, emerging from the Cord by their anterior roots d d, and their 
posterior e e, c c indicating' ganglia. 

cord. Again, each nerve is made up of two roots, one starting from the 
front part of the cord, the other from the back, which meet just outside 
the cord, and are there inclosed by the sheath. The branch arising in the 
back part carries to the brain impressions from objects outside of the body, 
as of something hot, for example ; the other carries from the brai?i the 
power of motion to the affected part. Hence, the fibers originating in the 
back part of the cord are called sensitive; the others, niotor. Thus di- 
vided, the nerves pass out into the body, divide and subdivide, and run to 
all parts of the skin and muscles of the neck, trunk and limbs, as shown in 
the general view in figure 9. 

Some of the fibers pass up into the brain, others stopping in the ner- 
vous centers, as noted before. Of those which go to the brain, the sensitive 
ones cross over almost immediately after entering the spinal cord, those which 
enter from the right of the general system passing up on the left side, and 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 47 

vice versa, A like crossing takes place in the motor fibers when they 
reach the medulla oblongata. This will explain the singular fact that when 
one side of the brain is affected, as bv paralysis, for example, the opposite 
side of the body suffers. 

Besides the nerves which pass up to the brain, there are others which 
terminate in the spinal cord. If a foot or wing of a bird be pressed im- 
mediately after the head has been taken off, the limb will be drawn back, 
indicating the presence of some form of sensation. This must be uncon- 
scious, since the brain is removed; and it has been shown to have its seat in 
the spinal cord. This part of the nervous system thus exercises a general 
protection over the body, frequently making a defense before the brain has 
become cognizant of the presence of harm, as when one snatches his hand 




e 

& 

14. Section of the Brain, with Cranial Nerves. 

F E.— Cerebrum. D— Cerebellum, divided vertically and show.ng the deep furrows as 

branches (the " arbor vitae "). i/.— Medulla Oblongata, merging- into the 

Spinal Cord, A. G— The Eye. B, C, 1, 2, etc.— Cranial Nerves. 

from a hot or cold surface before he has felt the pain, or had any thought 
of it. There are many instances of such action of the involuntary muscles 
which might be adduced. 

The Cranial Nerves, because of their locality, cannot be so well 
studied, and a description of these here can be of little practical value, ex. 
cept as it refers to the pneumogastric. Of the others, it may be said in 
general, that they are involved in smell, taste, sight and hearing, in muscu- 
lar movements about the head and face, in the facial expression and 
complexion. 

The pneumogastric, so-called from its close connection with the lungs 
and stomach, is very complicated, and of the highest importance. Fila- 



48 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



ments collect from the medulla oblongata, pass out of the skull, and are 
joined by nerve-branches from the spinal cord, in the neck, and with some 
of the cranial nerves, thus forming a large trunk which is both motor and 
sensitive. Passing down outside of the spinal cord, it sends off branches to 
the larynx and lungs, even to the minutest air-cells, controlling or affecting 
the voice and breathing. It conveys to the medulla 
oblongata the sensation produced by carbonic acid 
gas in the lungs, and thus starts the act of breath- 
ing, as described in the anatomy and physiology 
of Chapter V. The main trunk goes down into 
the abdomen and there branches off to the 
stomach to control the muscular motions requisite 
in digestion, and to influence, directly or indirectly, 




15. The Tongue and Nerves of Taste. 





16. Nasal Cavity and Nerves of Smell. 



17. The Pneumogastric Nerve. 

1. — Distributed to the Pharynx. 
2 and 3.— To the Larynx. 
4. — To the Lunsfs. 
5.— To the Stomach. 
6. — To the Liver. 



the secretions necessary in that process. It finally sends fibers to the liver, 
spleen, pancreas and gall-bladder, but its influence upon them is little under- 
stood. By experiments upon its several branches, disturbances in swallow- 
ing, breathing and digestion have been produced, and this will suggest an 
explanation of the coincidences between disorders of the brain and those of 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



49 




the stomach, between those of the nervous system generally and those of 
respiration, the voice and digestion. 

THE SYMPATHETIC SYSTEM. 

This system consists of a double chain of nervous centers which passes 
down the sides and front of the spinal column. From some part of the 
cerebro-spinal system, a motor and a 
sensitive filament enter each of these 
centers, thus making an intimate con- 
nection between the two great nerve- 
systems. In the head are centers of 
this group, closely connected with sight, 
hearing, taste and smell. In the neck 
are others which affect swallowing, and 
the action of the heart. In the chest, 
the centers send off fibers to the lungs, 
gullet and the aorta, or main artery. 
In the abdomen, the filaments form a 
very complex network, extending from 
the stomach to the base of the trunk, 
and branching into the stomach, liver, 
pancreas, spleen, kidneys and genital 
organs. Owing to its complications 
within itself, and with the cerebro- 
spinal system, the functions of the sev- 
eral parts of the sympathetic are not 
accurately understood. Its nerves are 
much more sluggish than those of the 
spinal system ; for, while irritation of a 
spinal nerve causes instantaneous feel- 
ing and motion, a part of the sym- 
pathetic may be affected and the 
sensation not be experienced for some 
time, as when, for example, one takes 
a cold and does not realize it for several 
hours. 

Some general remarks of value may be made upon this system. By 
it is produced the motion in the muscles of the small intestine, mentioned 
in the introduction on the organs of digestion, which is excited b}^ the con- 
tact of food with its mucous membrane. Reflex actions extend from the 
cerebro-spinal system to the sympathetic, and vice versa. One may, for 



(P 




The Sympathetic System. 



50 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

example, contract a cold by exposing the skin, and the internal effect be 
diarrhoea, inflammation of the bowels, and the like; or, on the other hand, 
indigestion may affect the sight, or cause convulsions, the latter especially 
in children. Thus we see that by this system various organs are brought 
into closest sympathy, and that it is rightly named. The statement that an 
organ is " affected by sympathy " becomes intelligible. Such complications 
from reflex actions often mislead one as to the real source and nature of dis- 
ease, and we conclude at once that the disorders in the nervous system will 
be varied in number and character, and that much study and patience will 
be required in their treatment. 

Every function of the body, from the profoundest thought of the phi- 
losopher to the least twitching of an involuntary muscle, requires the ex- 
penditure of more or less nervous power. Respiration, circulation and 
digestion are all vital processes, and yet, however independent they may 
be of one another, they must wholly cease if severed from the nervous 
system. A like remark can be rnade of all other parts, tissues and organs, 
and it becomes apparent that, in maintaining a balance in the physical 
economy, in other words, in promoting health, this great source of vitality 
and activity must be kept in its normal condition. Because of the intricate 
structure of the system and the increased study made necessary thereby, 
nervous diseases are less understood than all others, even by the profession. 
Hence, more time and patience will be requisite in their treatment, whether 
it be in the hands of the physician, or in domestic practice. 



HEADACHE. 

This is one of the most common affections of the nervous svstem, and 
has a variety of forms and causes. Though often independent, it is usually 
an accompaniment of a disorder in some other part of the body. As a symp- 
tom, it is frequently quite important, the manner of its appearance and its 
locality in the head sometimes showing the true nature of a disease. 

From the description of the nervous system just given, including the 
peculiar functions of the sympathetic division, we might presume that head- 
ache would be a prominent symptom of many disorders, such as a deranged 
state of the stomach, obstructed action of the liver, constipation, diarrhoea, or 
other irregularity of the bowels, the various forms of fever which change the 
circulation of the blood; in fact the brain beinsr the grreat central oro-an of 
the nervous system, with its intricate connections with every part of the 
body, there can be few diseases of the human frame in which pains in the 
head do not occur more or less frequently. We shall here treat those forms 
of headache in which the pain is the principal or only manifestation. It is 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 51 

to be observed also, that the character of the pain is of much importance in 
judging of the cause and in selecting the remedies. We have pains that are 
called respectively, shooting, darting, sharp, dull, throbbing, tearing, press- 
ing, drawing, screwing, bursting, boring, and piercing. 

HEADACHE FROM INDIGESTION. 

This is usually accompanied with some change in the appetite, and may 
result either in its complete loss, with a repugnance to food, or in a ravenous 
desire for food. The tongue is coated; nausea comes on, often with vom- 
iting; foul taste in the mouth; lassitude; the pain generally deep-seated, with 
dull aching over the brow. 

Treatment. — Iris versicolor is especially adapted to the form known 
as sick-headache, with severe throbbing pain, accompanied with faintness; 
great nausea and vomiting; slight relaxation of the bowels. When one 
is subject to repeated attacks, a dose three or four times a day during the 
interval will often prevent their appearance. 

Nux vomica is indicated by pain in the forehead; sensitiveness over the 
left eyebrow; pain increased by eating, motion, stooping, heat, and by noise, 
and growing worse toward mid-day, but relieved by lying down. 

Pulsatilla, for pain similar to that last named, but worse in the evening 
and increased by lying down, or pressure over the head; moving about re- 
lieves the pain. The remedy is especially adapted to this form when it oc- 
curs at the menstrual period. 

Ipecacuanha, if the pain is accompanied with constant nausea and vom- 
iting; also during the menses, with profuse flow, this remedy may be given 
in alternation with pulsatilla. 

HEADACHE FROM A COLD. 

Pain in the head frequently results from a cold, and is often the princi- 
pal symptom of catarrhal affections, both acute and chronic. 

Treatment. — Aconite is useful for such pain, with irritability of 
temper; heat alternating with chills; pain violent and increased by talking, 
pressure and noise. 

Mercurius, for pressing pain in the forehead, extending to the ears; stiff- 
ness and pain in the limbs; thirst; sweating at night; catarrhal symptoms. 

Nux vomica, for heavy pain in the forehead, with stuffy feeling in the 
nose; heat in the head; constipation. 

congestive headache. 

This is marked by unusual fullness of the blood-vessels, pain in the 
forehead and temple ; dizziness ; roaring in the ears ; heat in the head ; con- 



5'J COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

fusion of the thoughts; inability to stoop without great aggravation of the 
sense of fullness; throbbing pain. 

Treatment. — Belladonna is needed for fullness of the vessels; red 
face; redness of the eyeballs; full, rapid pulse; general feverish condition. 

Aconite for above symptoms, with pale face; high fever; quick pulse. 

This form of headache is liable to frequent recurrence, and when there 
is a tendency in this way, a dose of calcarea carbonica, once or twice a day, 
should be given. Belladonna, in the same manner, continued for some time, 
will tend to relieve. This recurrence has often been lessened by the use of 
some acid, such as lemons, lime-juice, or acid phosphate, the lime-juice 
being undoubtedly the best. 

other forms of headache. 

Wandering, rheumatic pains in the head, with great sensitiveness to 
the touch, and sometimes vomiting, may be relieved by nux vomica, cham- 
omilla, or pulsatilla. When there is great increase of pain upon moving 
about, with constant desire to change position, bryonia is needed. 

Chronic headache is usually due to the use of improper food, tea or 
coffee, or to derangement of some of the organs or functions of the bodv. 
When the cause cannot be traced, calcarea carbonica, sulphur or sepia may 
be given once a day, another being tried if one does not afford relief. 
Articles of food which disagree, oils, spices and the like, should not be used. 
Exercise in the open air, early rising and plenty of sleep will tend to invig- 
orate the bodv and lessen the tendency to the trouble. 

DIZZINESS.— VERTIGO. 

This is usually symptomatic, attending some trouble which indicates 
its nature and cause. 

Treatment. — When it is worse upon rising or stooping, aconite and 
belladonna will afford relief. 

Give nux vomica when it is attended with constipation; numbness of 
the fingers; pain in the back. 

Belladonna is indicated by rush of blood to the head, showing fullness 
of the blood-vessels in the face and neck; heat; redness of the face; dizzi- 
ness after exposure to the sun; ringing in the ears; dullness of the vision; 
headache; nausea. 

Light, digestible food, early rising and daily exercise in the open air 
will often prove highly beneficial. If dizziness threatens to induce faint- 
ing, the patient should lie down on his back, the head being on about the 
same level as the feet. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 53 

SEA-SICKNESS. 

This distressing disorder, caused by the motion of a vessel, is due to a 
disturbed state of the system in which the brain receives a deficient supply of 
blood. Those of delicate and sensitive organisms, with weak heart-action, 
quick pulse, and tendency to palpitation, are more often attacked, and such 
may be affected by the motion of steam or horse cars, carriages or swings. 

The following rules, from Dr. Barker's excellent work, are so com- 
mendable and trustworthy, that they are deserving of mention, as applying 
to those who are certain or fearful of an attack. They are not, of course 
designed for those who are proof against sea-sickness. 

1. Do not go on the steamer in a nervous or exhausted condition; have 
every preparation made at least twenty-four hours before starting. This 
direction is particularly important for ladies. 

2. Eat a good hearty meal three hours before sailing, of wholesome food. 

3. Select a berth as near the center of the vessel as possible. In go- 
ing to Europe it is better to be on the starboard side, and in returning on 
the port side, which will be the sunny side. 

4. Go on board sufficiently early to arrange such things as may be 
wanted for the first day or two, so that they may be easy of access; then 
undress and go to bed before the vessel gets under way. The neglect of 
this by those who are liable to sea-sickness is sure to be regretted. If sub- 
ject to nausea, retain the horizontal position the entire passage if necessary. 

5. Eat regularly and as heartily as you can (and there is nothing that 
can be taken better than light chicken-broth), but without raising the head 
for at least one or two days. In this way the habit of digestion is kept up, 
the strength is preserved, while the system becomes accustomed to the 
constant change of equilibrium. 

6. On the first night out take some mild laxative medicine, and be care- 
ful to keep the bowels open for the remainder of the voyage. Constipa- 
tion not only results from sea-sickness, but in turn aggravates it. 

7. After having become so far habituated to the sea as to be able to 
take your meals at the table and go on deck, never think of rising in the 
morning until you have eaten something, as a plate of oatmeal, or a cup of 
coffee or tea, with biscuit. The Edinburgh biscuit can be taken by the most 
delicate. If subsequently during the voyage the sea should become unusu- 
ally rough, go to bed before getting sick. It is foolish to dare anything when 
there is no glory to be won, and something to be lost. 

8. Do not make the mistake of trying to keep on deck — it is a mistake 
to suppose that sea-sickness is beneficial to any one, — it is often permanently 
injurious, and has sometimes resulted fatally. 



54 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

9. The improvement in health from a sea voyage is as a general rule 
proportioned to the freedom from sea-sickness. 

10. Persons with depressed vital powers, and with impaired and feeble 
digestion should avoid exposure to sea-sickness. 

ii« Medical art is powerless to cure, but can greatly mitigate and 
relieve its sufferings. 

12. The phenomena constituting sea-sickness are purely physical, — 
they are not confined to the human race, as animals also are subject to 
the same malady. 

13. Some persons can never become habituated to the sea. Some naval 
officers are always sick in rough weather 

14. The cause of it is due to the sudden and recurring changes of the 
relations of the fluids to the solids of the body, and nervous disturbances 
which result from these changes. The liquids contained in the vessels, 
as well as the solids of the economy, obey equally the laws of gravitation 
when the body is subjected to alternate movements of ascent and descent. 
The blood by its fluidity yields more readily to the influence of descent, 
and less easily than the solids to the ascending impulse. Consequently it 
does not return to the brain with the same regularity as in the case where the. 
body remains stable, and leaves it more rapidly in the movement of descent. 
There result as to the circulation alternations of afflux and delay in the arrival 
of the blood to the different organs of the body, which disturb their functions, 
and those of the brain especially, analogous to that which follows the loss 
of blood in some persons who are nauseated and vomit after vivisection. 

The horizontal position, which to a certain degree modifies this dis- 
turbance of function, is the only approximation to a cure. 

15. Rooms near the furnaces are objectionable, not only on account of 
the heat, which is sometimes very disagreeable, but also from the noise 
which at certain hours is made by the donkey-engine in drawing up the 
ashes and cinders." 

Petroleum may prevent an attack, and may be considered one of the 
best remedies. A drop or two on a little sugar may be taken before going 
on board, and repeated every two or three hours until probability of an 
occurrence of the sickness is past. 

Nux vomica is to be taken for indigestion and constipation, with dull 
headache. 

Kreosote will sometimes check the vomiting quickly when an attack 
has come on. 

Staphisagria has a remarkable efficacy if given before vomiting sets in, 
and has relieved many cases after the dizziness and unpleasant feeling in the 
stomach had commenced. 



MAN — THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 55 

[Glonoine will often relieve the worst cases. Some are benefited only 
by bromide of sodium, repeated every three hours until the appetite returns. 
Hale.] 

EPILEPSY.— FALLING SICKNESS.— FITS. 

Epilepsy comes on suddenly and is rarely preceded by any warning, the 
patient dropping down with spasmodic contractions of the muscles; distor- 
tion of the eyes and face; clenching of the fingers; grinding of the teeth; 
almost always frothing at the mouth; the spasm lasting from a few sec- 
onds to several hours, though generally but a few minutes, and followed 
by deep sleep and exhaustion. 

In some cases, there are symptoms which precede an attack from a few 
minutes to several hours, consisting of headache; shooting pains; dizziness; 
sparks before the eyes; strong odors, and strange tastes; irritability; gloomy 
mood. The most common warning is a sensation as of a stream of water, 
or the crawling of an insect, which commences at the feet and gradually 
rises toward the head, the fit following as soon as the feeling stops. 

When epilepsy is the result of worms, bad digestion, teething, poison, or 
other such trouble, the cause should be removed, if possible, and then the at- 
tacks are easily subdued. But a cure will be difficult when the causes are 
hereditary and constitutional, and where there is malformation of the skull, 
one side being unlike the other; as also when injuries have been inflicted 
upon the brain or nerves, when tumors or deposits of bone press upon the 
brain, and when the disorder occurs late in life. 

Treatment. — When the patient is seized, lay him in an easy position, 
loose the clothing about the throat, and apply cold water to the face and 
neck, having every object removed which might injure him. A cork or 
linen pad should be placed between the teeth to prevent laceration of the 
lips and tongue by grating the teeth. Aconite and belladonna may be given 
for the premonitory symptoms. 

After an attack, to prevent a return when the cause is not known, give 
the following remedies as indicated: Nux vomica, for constipation; irrita- 
bility of temper; pain in the back; dizziness; buzzing in the ears; inconti- 
nence of urine; indigestion. 

Kali bromidum has been extensively used. Though it has often been 
abused, it has frequently diminished the severity of attacks and their fre- 
quency. It is best adapted to recent cases, and to attacks which come on 
with great violence, the patient uttering a loud shriek and falling to the 
ground, convulsive and insensible. The bromides of soda, ammonia and 
nickel, are also superior remedies. The dose for any of these bromides, 



56 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

including the kali, is from five grains three times daily for a child, to 
twenty grains three times a day for an adult. 

Chamomilla. — Epilepsy in irritable children, during teething, or when 
they are subject to colic, diarrhoea, and severe vomiting. 

Cina and Santonine. — When the disease is the result of worms. 

Give a change of place and surroundings, with daily exercise, care being 
taken to prevent fatigue. Avoid stimulants and overloading the stomach. 
Simple digestible food, taken at regular hours, should constitute the diet. 

FITS OR CONVULSIONS OF INFANTS. 

This affection is one of the most common of cerebral and brain affections 
of children and anything which seriously disturbs the system is liable to bring 
them on. These are undoubtedly due in many cases to the rapid growth 
of the brain during the first months of childhood. 

Among the disturbances to which children are subject, and which most 
often produce convulsions, are teething, worms, falls, mental emotions, as 
anger and fear, transition from chill to fever, and decline of fever. Indi- 
gestible or improper food is one of the most fertile causes, and, in a majority 
of cases, convulsions are due to this alone. Children in whom the disorder 
has been induced by such food have a great craving for meat, and many 
times the convulsions will cease after the child has expelled from the stomach 
a large quantity of meat that has lain there undigested. 

In mild cases, the symptoms are slight twitchings of the muscles of the 
face and fingers, spasmodic breathing, and drawing up of the eyes. In some 
instances the patient suddenly becomes insensible; the muscles of the head 
and neck are convulsed; the eyes are insensible to light, and are drawn rig- 
idly up and to one side; the hands are clenched, and the thumbs drawn in; 
there is frothing at the mouth, with a livid or pale face. This condition may 
last a few minutes and then cease, or it may return and repeat itself until 
death ends the scene. 

Treatment. — Place the lower half of the child in a bath, with 
the water at a temperature of 98 F. Apply cool water to the head 
by means of a thin cloth, frequently changed. Loose the clothing about the 
body, keeping the head raised. When the convulsions cease, dry the body 
and wrap it in warm flannel blankets, applying to the head a cloth wet in 
cool water until all congestion ceases. 

Belladonna. — Rush of blood to the head; hot, flushed face, especially 
in fleshy children; starting in sleep; staring wildly about. 

Chamomilla. — During teething, when one cheek is pale and the other 
red; irritable children troubled with indigestion, colic and diarrhoea. 

Cina or Ignatia. — When worms are the cause. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 57 

Gelseminum. — Convulsions accompanied with disease of the brain. 
Veratrum Viride. — Very quick pulse; head drawn back to heels; 
irritation of the spine. 

If possible, medical aid should be summoned at once. 

ST. VITUS' DANCE.— CHOREA. 

St. Vitus' dance is a form of convulsions that is due to an imperfect 
control of the muscles, resulting from irritation of the nervous system. It 
may be partial, affecting one or more of the muscles, or general, involving 
the whole muscular structure. It usually attacks children before puberty 
and is generally subject to medical treatment. In some instances, however, 
it affects some of the muscles during life, sometimes causing odd grimaces 
and queer motions. 

It is caused by worms, fright, teething, derangement of the urinary 
functions, or self- abuse. Sympathy often produces it, and children who 
see others suffering from it are liable to contract it. 

Treatment. — Aconite or Ignatia. — When occurring from fright. 

Cina, Santonine or Ignatia. — When caused by worms. 

Iodine, Arsenicum or Sulphur. — When arising from scrofula and other 
blood-taints. 

Agaricus will be found useful in long-standing cases, and when the 
cause is not known; especially if the motions have the peculiarity of stop- 
ping when the patient is performing certain labor or during sleep. 

Phosphoric acid has made many brilliant cures, a few droos of the di- 
lute acid being given three or four times a day. 

A constant stream of galvanism has proved of great value. The pa- 
tient must be treated with firmness and encouraged to control the muscles 
by the will as much as possible. If the hands are affected, he should carry 
pieces of crockery and other articles that can be easily broken. If the low- 
er limbs are the special seat of trouble, he should walk on short stilts. He 
must be isolated from others similarly affected, and as little notice as possible 
betaken of his disorder in his presence, its serious character being rather 
ignored. 

[If the patient is pale, showing poor and insufficient blood, iron should 
be given, and any of its forms may be used, the dose not exceeding one 
grain three times daily, after meals.] 

Cimicifuga has been very successful in young women, or when 
rheumatism has been the cause of the trouble. 

Fowler's Solution is convenient for the administration of arsenicum for 
the symptoms mentioned for that remedy. — Hale.] 



58 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

STUTTERING AND STAMMERING. 

Though these two terms are used interchangeably, they denote differ- 
ent affections of the vocal organs. Hunt says stuttering " is a vicious ut- 
terance, manifested by frequent repetitions of initial or other elementary 
sounds, and always more or less attended with muscular contortions." 
The same writer says of stammering that it " is characterized by an in- 
ability or difficulty of properly enunciating some or many of the elementary 
speech sounds, either when they occur at the beginning or the middle of a 
word, accompanied or not, as the case may be, by a slow, hesitating, more 
or less indistinct delivery, but unattended with frequent repetitions of the 
initial sounds, and consequent convulsive efforts to surmount the difficulty." 

Either or both may attend St. Vitus' dance, and then treatment is to 
be directed to the latter. They also arise from deformities of the lips, 
tongue, teeth, or palate (when they are either incurable or need surgical 
measures), from enlarged tonsils, or from diseases of the nervous system. 
It is because they are so often of a nervous origin that they are mentioned 
in this chapter. 

Stammering is often developed in children by the family using " baby 
talk" — a practice which should be avoided. Speak plainly to a child when 
he is learning to talk, and teach him to enunciate words distinctly as he ac- 
quires the ability to do so. 

Great or sudden excitement, loss of sleep, nervous exhaustion, the ex- 
cessive use of narcotics, and other debilitating influences may produce either 
of these, though more often only temporarily. 

Treatment. — From what has been said, it is obvious that the treat- 
ment is generally to be directed to some disorder of which stuttering or 
stammering is a symptom. When a case has become established, it is best 
to put the patient under the care of some one who is skilled in this particu- 
lar field, for a minute and patient discipline of the organs of speech is neces- 
sary, and sometimes involves weeks or months of care. Assistance may be 
given if the family will not notice the patient when he is in a paroxysm, 
never imitate or laugh at him, and never excite him. The patient should 
not try to speak unless his lungs have been well filled. If he will, when in 
a paroxysm, pinch his clothing, move his feet or other part of the body, or 
resort to other similar means to divert the attention from his difficultv, his 
speech will be more likely to flow freely and naturally for the moment. 

If a case has not become confirmed, friends may break it up by training 
the patient to control his speech as far as he can. They must encourage 
him to speak slowly, stop him when he begins to stutter or stammer (doing 
this gently and without affected sympathy, never with a start), and have 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 59 

him repeat many times a word of which he has gained the mastery by fre- 
quent trials. 

These disorders are said to " run in families," but they doubtless result 
in many cases from children seeing their elders who are afflicted, and young 
children should receive attention as soon as they show the first symptoms. 

HYSTERIA.— HYSTERICS. 

This peculiar affection is due to a morbid nervous sensibility. It is not 
confined to women, as is popularly supposed, though its occurrence in men 
is rare. Its symptoms and treatment are given in full in a subsequent 
chapter. 

BRAIN FEVER. 

This difficulty is of a very important character. We shall give the 
symptoms which are common to the varied forms of inflammation of the 
brain and its membranes, with general directions for the treatment until a 
physician can be obtained, and the means to be adopted when such aid is 
not accessible. 

Inflammation of the substance of the brain, without implication of the 
surrounding membranes, is of a very serious nature when once established. 
It is highly important that an attack be anticipated as much as possible, so 
that the inflammatory action may be mitigated in its incipient stage. 

The symptoms which indicate the approach of an attack are heat, pain, 
and heaviness in the head; flushed, swollen face; eyes suffused and bright; 
pupils dilated; distension and throbbing of the vessels in the neck; irrita- 
bility; restlessness; intolerance of light; giddiness; nausea; sometimes 
vomiting. Delirium is quite frequent from the start, the patient rolling his 
head from side to side, grinding the teeth, and exhibiting stupor. The 
bowels are usually constipated, and, as the disease progresses, the abdomen 
becomes flat and sunken; pupils widely dilated, the patient insensible to 
light; the face sunken and ghastly; the skin cold and clammy; the urine 
and contents of the bowels are passed unconsciously; the pulse becomes 
small and thready; the breathing loud; and the patient soon dies in pro- 
found, persistent sleep. 

At other times, when the brain substance alone is affected, the delirium 
is not so great; the pulse may be less than usual; one or more of the limbs 
may become rigid, and paralysis may follow. 

Among the predisposing causes are age, sex, intemperance, excessive 
grief, and mental over-work. The exciting causes are blows on the head, 
falls, exposure to the intense heat of the sun, and sometimes it has followed 
the retrocession, or "striking in," of eruptions on the scalp. 



60 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — In the treatment, give the remedies and apply the 
means of relief promptly. Aconite is needed at first; if relief is not ob- 
tained, and the face is very much flushed and swollen, the eyes red and 
bloodshot, give belladonna. 

Hyoscyamus is useful for loss of consciousness; delirium; inarticulate 
speech; dull, haggard expression of the face; collections on the teeth; deaf- 
ness ; double vision ; a desire to escape ; great pain in the head. 

Opium. — Snoring respiration; low, muttering delirium; stupor; dark- 
red face; hot and dry, or clammy skin; thick, brownish coat on the tongue. 

Arsenicum. — Sunken eyes; deathly look in the face; dry, coated 
tongue ; burning thirst ; diarrhoea, the discharge passing off involuntarily. 

Arnica. — When the disease arises from an injury on the head; it may 
be given in alternation with aconite or belladonna. 

Helps in the Treatment. — The hair should be cut close, and cloths wet 
in hot water should be constantly applied and changed as soon as they be- 
gin to cool. This allays the inflammation, and decreases the delirium. The 
feet and limbs should be kept warm. Sometimes cold cloths applied to the 
head are more grateful and may be used, but the cloths should be changed 
as soon as they begin to get warm. 

The diet is very important, and should consist of fluids entirely, as 
strong broths, beef-tea, milk-and-lime-water, and koumiss when it can be 
obtained. Cold water and other simple drinks may be given freely; even 
pieces of ice will be found very grateful if there be excessive thirst and 
nausea. 

The rooms should be well ventilated, large and airy, and if the eyes 
are sensitive to light, it should be modified. Pe?'fect quiet is very im- 
portant. 

APOPLEXY. 

Apoplex}' is the result of bleeding in the brain, from rupture of some 
of the blood-vessels, or an inordinate distension of the vessels themselves 
from interrupted circulation. 

It is not confined, as is too generally supposed, to those who have an 
unusual supply of blood, and short necks. It finds its subjects among all 
classes and temperaments, and is due to disease of the blood-vessels. Many 
times blood-letting takes away the only chance of recovery, without caus- 
ing a return of consciousness. 

When the blood-vessels are in this condition, any action which 
forces the blood to the brain, or prevents its return therefrom, such as 
violent exertion, lifting, stooping a long time, powerful mental emotions, or 
compression of the veins in the neck, may bring on an attack. The use of 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 61 

alcohol and narcotics may produce the condition of the blood-vessels which 
gives rise to this disorder. It usually comes on suddenly, though sometimes 
it gives some marked indications of its approach. 

The characteristic symptoms are sudden loss of feeling and motion, 
the patient falling down; the breathing loud and snoring; the face pale, 
swollen, and covered with profuse perspiration; the surface of the body cold 
and bloodless; the pulse frequent, small and weak, or full and sluggish, 
passing slowly under the fingers. Sometimes the surface of the body is 
very warm; the face red; the blood-vessels of the face and neck full; the 
pupils dilated. 

The attack is often preceded by drowsiness; fatigue; throbbing of the 
arteries in the neck; dullness of the vision; dizziness; fainting; indistinct- 
ness of speech; headache; prickling sensation in the fingers and toes; the 
bowels sluggish; often the urine retained. Whatever the cause or the 
variety, this disease is always alarming. 

Treatment. — When an attack comes on, the patient should be 
placed in a large room, where the air can circulate freely. Loose the 
clothing about the neck and body, put on warm coverings, and apply 
warmth to the feet and armpits. Raise the head moderately; apply a mus- 
tard plaster to the stomach, and warm cloths to the head. Medical aid 
should be summoned at once, but until such aid arrives, use remedies as 
follows : 

Aconite. — As a substitute for the old-time blood-letting, and infinitely 
superior, when there is a full, rapid and strong pulse, with dry, hot skin, or 
weak pulse, ghastly pale face, and collapsed appearance. It may be given 
for the premonitory symptoms, as well as for the actual attack. 

Belladonna. — Red, swollen face; throbbing of the blood-vessels in the 
face and neck; convulsive movements of the limbs; dilatation of the pupils; 
loss of speech, suppression or involuntary discharge of the urine. 

Opium. — Drowsiness, stupor, or complete coma; irregular, loud breath- 
ing; bloated face; dull, stupid expression; eyes partly closed; pupils con- 
tracted; extremities cold. 

Nux Vomica. — For the congestive condition of the brain indicating 
apoplexy, and during an attack, when there are no fever symptoms; es- 
pecially adapted to those cases which arise from sedentary habits, and the 
use of rich food, alcoholic drinks, and the like. 

Phosphorus will correct the degenerated condition of the blood-vessels, 
and is valuable as a preventive of suspected cases; it is also useful after a 
patient survives an attack. 

Should the patient survive the shock, great care should be taken after- 
ward. The diet must be light, including milk, light puddings, cooked 



62 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

vegetables, fish and fruit. Meats should be avoided until recovery is com- 
plete. Moderate exercise, when possible, should be indulged in. Thorough 
rubbing of the body will encourage better circulation, and do much toward 
recovery. The causes of the disease should be avoided as much as possible. 

PARALYSIS.— PALSY. 

Paralysis is a loss of motion and feeling in some part, due to cutting 
off or obstructing the communication between the brain and spinal cord. 
It results from injury to or pressure upon a nerve-trunk, or from a poison. 
It may affect a small part of the body, as an eyelid or other portion of the 
face; generally, however, it involves one side, and very rarely both sides. 
The side of the body affected is opposite that of the brain that is implicated. 

The principal causes of paralysis are the same as those producing 
apoplexy, though it may also result from debility or disease, as rheumatism 
and scrofula, or from absorption of lead or other mineral poison. If the 
last is the cause, the chances of a cure are improved. 

Facial paralysis may arise from local pressure on the nerve, and is 
usually independent of brain affection, its direct cause being a swelling in 
the membrane lining the passages in the bone from which the nerve 
emerges, or in the glands and tissues of the face. This form usually shows 
improvement immediately upon the removal of the cause. It may be rec- 
ognized from the first by the fact that, though the features are drawn up, 
the sensibility of the parts and the power of mastication are not affected. 

Treatment. — Arnica, when one side is paralyzed, with a weakening 
of the joints; swelling; great debility; or if an attack of rheumatism is 
the cause. 

Bryonia. — Limbs paralyzed; oppression of the chest, and difficult 
breathing; feeling not entirely lost; complete loss of motion; coldness in 
the limbs. 

Phosphorus. — Paralysis of old persons when there is wasting of the 
tissues. 

Nux Vomica. — Paralysis of the leftside; is useful for the dizziness and 
numbness which sometimes precede an attack. 

Opium and Belladonna. — When the disease is caused by poisoning with 
lead, which, it may be added, is quite frequent, since the country is filled 
with so-called vegetable hair restorers and dyes which contain lead in con- 
siderable quantities. Belladonna is specially useful in facial paralysis. 
Electricity or galvanism is often of great value after the first symptoms 
have subsided, but should be used with care and under the advice 
of a physician. The douche, bathing in salt water, and sea-bathing, tend 
to promote nutrition. Friction and massage (see index) promote circula- 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. (53 

tion, and do much to overcome the rigidity of the muscles and restore the 
function of the paralyzed parts. Exercising freely in the open air is of 
great value, when the patient is capable of it. 

SUNSTROKE OR OVERHEATING. 

This difficulty is the result of exposure to great heat, or of over-exer- 
tion in vitiated air. It is more liable to occur in air that is damp and 
muggy, with great heat, than in the direct rays of the sun ; it may, indeed, 
come on in the shade, or even at night, and is quite common in over- 
heated buildings. 

It is generally preceded by thirst; pain in the head; heat; dizziness; 
redness of the eyes and obscured vision; frequent desire to pass urine; 
irritability; perhaps nausea. Fainting comes on; the skin is hot and dry, 
or covered with free perspiration; the patient is insensible; the breathing 
loud, short and rapid, or deep and slow; heart-action weak and fluttering; 
there may be convulsions. 

Treatment. — If there are no convulsions, the patient should be 
quickly stripped, placed in an empty bath, and covered with water, quite 
cool, poured over the neck and shoulders, until the temperature of the 
body is reduced. A small quantity of brandy and water, or a little cam- 
phor, if there is great prostration, may be given. 

If there are convulsions, the patient should be placed in a sitz-bath, 
or hip-bath, with the water at a temperature of 90°,ice or ice-water being 
applied to the head with compresses frequently changed. 

If the patient is seemingly lifeless, these measures should be combined 
with the means used to effect " artificial breathing," and to restore " circu- 
lation, warmth and strength," as described under Drowning. 

When the danger of immediate fatal results is over, give aconite every 
ten or fifteen minutes. [Gelseminum for vertigo, dull vision, stupor and 
prostration. — Hale.] 

Belladonna. — If the eyes are wild and staring. 

Glonoine. — Very severe pain in the head, especially in the back part; 
also, if the patient becomes suddenly unconscious. 

Camphor. — Great depression of the pulse; pale face; violent distress 
in the head. [I prefer the bromide of camphor. — Hale.] 

Light, loose clothing, especially about the neck, with flannel next to the 
skin, and the avoidance of all spirit-drinking, tend to prevent attacks. 

Preventives. — Keep down the temperature of the head by placing on 
the crown cloths, leaves, grass and the like, and frequently wet them with 
cold water. Wear a loose, light hat that will allow the air to strike the 



64 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

head. Do not drink excessively of cold water. Totally abstain from all 
liquors, malt, distilled and fermented; they are unquestionably conducive to 
sun-stroke. 

Bathe the body every night after the work is done and the body has be- 
come cool, lukewarm water being the best. Wear light and loose clothes. 
Keep your living apartments well ventilated. If any of the above active 
symptoms appear, quit work until the body is thoroughly cooled and 
restored. 

If you have suffered from an attack, be specially careful always there- 
after, as a second can be more easily brought on than the first. 

DROPSY OF THE BRAIN. 

This disorder is almost entirely confined to children, and rarely occurs 
after the age of fourteen. It generally occurs in those of scrofulous ten- 
dency and large head, and usually makes its appearance within the first year, 
before the bones of the skull are closed. Sometimes children are born 
with it more or less developed. Occasionally those who have reached adult 
life are attacked, and the skull being united and solid, the accumulated fluid 
presses on the brain and causes a bloodless and wasted condition of the 
brain substance. 

Sometimes the disease comes on suddenly, with pain in the head ; slow 
pulse; vomiting; stupidity; dilated pupils; convulsions. Again, the first 
indication noticed may be the disproportion between the skull and face, the 
bones of the skull spreading apart and leaving the seams between them 
wide apart; the face grows dull, small, pinched, and old-looking; the body 
emaciated; the patient desires to lie down constantly. However much the 
child eats, he does not grow in body, becomes restless, feverish and fre- 
quently cries out. Upon applying the hand to the head, fluctuation may be 
felt. When the case terminates fatally, the senses become dull; paralysis 
sets in ; the patient dies from exhaustion, convulsions, or, as is quite liable 
to occur in such cases, from spasmodic croup. 

Sometimes this disease follows scarlet fever, whooping-cough, measles, 
bowel complaint, injury to the head, suppressed eruption, extended inflam- 
mation, and abscess of the ear. Children whose parents are addicted to 
drunkenness are most liable to the disorder, and it should be a sad prospect 
to those given to this habit that their sins will follow them in the sufferings 
of their offspring. 

The duration is from two weeks to three months, and if extended 
beyond this time, it becomes chronic, and may last for years before the mis- 
shaped body succumbs to its effects. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 65 

Treatment. — Much has been done in the direction of treatment and 
many have been relieved by proper hygienic and medical attention. 

Aconite. — In the commencement, when the disease comes on suddenly, 
there being quick pulse, pain in the head, and nausea. 

Belladonna. — Spasmodic twitching of the muscles; dilated pupils; con- 
vulsions. 

The greatest results however will follow the constitutional treatment 
the remedies for which are these: 

Calcarea Carbonica and Phosphorus, especially if there is a scrofulous 
condition, with deficient nutrition. 

Helleborus. — After the water has begun to deposit. 

Apis. — For delirium; shrill screaming; head drawn back. 

When the collection of water is great, tapping the skull and drawing off 
the fluid has resulted favorably. 

The hypophosphites of lime, soda and potassa, after Churchill's form- 
ula, will do much toward preventing the disease, if given to children who are 
predisposed to it from scrofulous tendency. 

CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS.— SPOTTED FEVER. 

This dreaded malady may have existed in ancient times so far as we 
know, but its first recorded appearance was in the epidemic of Geneva in 
1805. Since that time it has prevailed more or less in all parts of the globe. 
From its epidemic character many have supposed that it is contagious, but 
this is generally not conceded. That it is infectious there is no doubt, though 
the character of its germs and their origin are not known. When epidemic, 
it enters the palace as well as the hovel, but more often chooses those 
places which are rendered better suited to develop the disease-germs by 
reason of poor or insufficient food, over-crowded, unclean, damp, and badly- 
ventilated houses. 

Its attack is sudden, usually coming on with a chill, followed by a high 
fever, violent headache, vomiting, and excessive prostration. The pain in the 
head is a marked feature of the disorder, and usually affects the back part, to- 
gether with the upper portion of the spine, producing a sense of stiffness in 
the parts. The temperature is variable, changing from ioo to 104 in a very 
short time, and going even higher, though it may again return to the nor- 
mal, while the other symptoms continue unabated in their violence. The 
pulse also is irregular, and differs from that in ordinary fever, sometimes be- 
ing slow with a very high temperature, and again very quick and wiry with 
a low temperature. In some cases, there will be delirium and partial or com- 
plete loss of consciousness from the start, the patient sometimes answering 
questions slowly and immediately relapsing into stupor. As the disease pro- 
5 



06 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

gresses, and sometimes at the beginning, the neck becomes stiff, the head 
drawn back, and convulsions set in. The tongue is heavily coated, or dry 
and cracked; there is great aching of the limbs, and if the patient is at all 
conscious, he complains of intense suffering. Very sore spots appear, vary- 
ing in size from that of a pea to half an inch in diameter, being dark-red or 
purple in color, not fading on pressure. Sometimes the spots are absent, and 
do not appear unless the child is in convulsions. There is usually diarrhoea ; 
though sometimes the bowels are constipated. In some cases, the contents 
of the bowels, as well as the urine, are passed involuntarily. The pupils 
of the eyes are widely dilated, or extremely contracted, and many times sight 
and hearing are both gone, one of them often not returning during life. Its 
fatality is sometimes appalling, patients succumbing to its effects in a few 
hours, even dropping suddenly in the street, and dying immediately if suffer- 
ing from any complication of the heart. This extreme severity is particu- 
larly noticeable in the commencement of the epidemic, but may not 
continue; for some may, during the height of its prevalence, have it in a 
mild form. 

The rapidity of its course and the gravity of the disease call for prompt 
and efficient aid. It should be carefully distinguished from other diseases by 
observing the severity of its symptoms, the rapidity of their succession, 
and the intense pain and exquisite sensitiveness of the whole body. It pre- 
vails chiefly among children, but may occur at any age. Sometimes it is 
not epidemic, but one case appearing in a place ; yet it may be none the less 
severe. 

Treatment. — Veratrum viride should be given from the start, during 
the congestive stage, and continued until the inflammation subsides. 

Belladonna and hyoscyamus are needed for stupor; delirium; red eyes; 
pupils dilated or contracted, or one dilated and the other contracted ; spasms; 
twitching of the muscles. When these symptoms appear, one or the other 
of these remedies should be given, and during the congestive stage, should 
be alternated with veratrum viride. 

Gelseminum. — Also in the commencement or congestive stage, the 
special indications for its use being high fever; moist skin; thick yellow fur 
on the tongue; loss of muscular power; double vision. 

Bryonia and Rhus. — When the inflammatory symptoms have subsided, 
these are indicated by loss of consciousness; stiffening of the jaw; tongue 
dark-colored, dry, and protruded with difficulty ; dark collections on the 
teeth; sinking down of the body in the bed; appearance of great suffering. 

Arsenicum. — When the vital forces fail and symptoms of blood-poison- 
ing intervene ; foul, putrid discharges from the bowels ; the spots on the sur- 
face malignant and gangrenous. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. (j , 

Opium. — As a last resort, when belladonna and hyoscyamus fail to re- 
lieve the stupor and paralytic symptoms, and there is profound and persistent 
sleep. 

Alcohol. — The extreme prostration and sinking of the vital forces often 
call for prompt and efficient stimulants. While the indiscriminate use of al- 
coholic preparations is not admissible, oftentimes they produce beneficial 
results in staying dissolution, and bridging over critical places, Their admin- 
istration should be under skilled guidance, and only in those cases where med- 
ical aid cannot be obtained, should they be intrusted to inexperienced hands. 
An indication for their use is extreme prostration in the commencement of the 
disease, when the patient seems likely to succumb to the chill. Put two 
teaspoonfuls of pure alcohol inco three times as much water and give one 
teaspoonful of the mixture every half-hour or every hour, as the severity of 
the symptoms may indicate. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE SPINAL CORD. 

The spinal marrow, like the brain, is subject to irritation and inflamma- 
tion. Mere irritation rarely causes any injury to the structure; and may 
result from exhaustion or defective nutrition of the nerves, its origin being in 
some of the nerve-trunks, in the membranes enveloping the cord, or in the 
cord itself. Inflammation, however, is accompanied with a positive struct- 
ural change of longer or shorter duration. The acute form is attended with a 
deposit in the spaces between the membrane and the nerve; the chronic, 
with a thickening of the membranes, and a greater or less accumulation of 
fluids about the cord. 

The causes are manifold, the most common being injuries from a shock 
or blow ; fracture of the vertebrae ; inflammation of the brain, extending to the 
cord; taking cold. 

In most cases it commences with a chill, followed by high fever, and 
paroxysms of shivering; pain comes on in the backbone at some spot which 
is sensitive to touch, and, when the body is twisted or moved, is increased to 
an almost intolerable degree. If the inflammation goes on, incipient paraly- 
sis in some parts of the body supervenes, and may become permanent. If the 
upper part of the cord is affected, the symptoms are quite different, and very 
serious or fatal results may follow paralysis in this locality, for the nerves 
branching from this part control the action of the heart and lungs. When 
the cord is affected midway between the brain and the lower end, some par- 
oxysms of colic will likely ensue, with more or less paralysis of the rectum 
and bladder. The disease may be very rapid and terminate fatally in a few 
hours, or it may last for weeks and finally in its course carry off the patient 
by exhaustion. Complete recovery is rare, there being a loss of nerve-power 



68 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

in some of the branches near the seat of inflammation, and consequent 
paralysis of the parts to which they lead. Young children may experience 
a gradual cure of the paralysis under judicious treatment. 

Treatment. — This disease is of a grave nature and should command 
the prompt attention of a skillful physician. Oftentimes a few hours in the 
commencement is of the greatest importance in its treatment. In case med- 
ical* aid is not at hand, or is not obtainable, much good may be done by giv- 
ing the following remedies, as they seem indicated. 

Veratrum viride has special efficacy, and is indicated by very rapid and 
full pulse; pain in the head; great prostration; the extremities numb, with 
twitching of the muscles; drowsiness; partial unconsciousness; great restless- 
ness. It should be given in doses of one-half drop to a drop of the tincture 
until the pulse is reduced to one hundred per minute. 

Belladonna may be given in alternation with veratrum viride if the face 
is very much flushed; the eyes red and congested; the pupils dilated; and 
there is great pain in the head. 

Veratrum Album. — When the abdominal organs are implicated or the 
disease is the result of disorder of the bowels, accompanied with severe, 
cramp-like pains, this remedy will be found of great value. 

Secale is specially adapted to inflammation of the spinal cord. The 
symptoms indicating its use are convulsive twitchings and shocks; painful 
contraction of the muscles; violent pains in the back; paralysis of the blad- 
der and rectum. It is adapted to both the acute and chronic forms. 

Much benefit has followed the use of electricity in cases in which paralysis 
has followed the inflammatory symptoms. It should be used judiciously and 
under medical direction. Bathing the back with cold salt-water tends to 
promote nutrition of the spinal cord. This should be followed by brisk rub- 
bing, both of the spine and the part paralyzed. Outdoor exercise should 
be taken when possible, and of such kind as to bring into action the parts 
affected. 

NEURALGIA. 

When certain branches or portions of the nerves are diseased, as those 
of the face, chest, limbs and stomach, the disorder is called neuralgia, and 
takes its special name from the part affected, that in the face, for example, 
being called facial neuralgia, and that in the stomach, gastralgia. 

Wherever it is located, few other complaints are attended with such in- 
tense suffering. The pain is sharp, shooting along the track of the nerve 
and its branches, and is accompanied with more or less inflammation. Though 
is has several causes, there is little doubt that the predisposition to it is of a 
hereditary nature. The tendency is excited or aggravated" by a decline in 
the general health; wet and cold; strong winds; draughts of air; sleepless- 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. (J'J 

ness; anxiety; violent exertion; insufficient nourishment; rheumatism; ex- 
nosure of the nerve in a decayed tooth; pressure on the nerve from a swell- 
ing or foreign growth; injury to the nerve by a wound. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for pain that is most severe at night; 
fever; thirst; when neuralgia is accompanied with congestion of the head 
or lungs. 

Belladonna. — Burning, cutting, stinging pains; one or both cheeks 
flushed and sometimes swollen; eyes red and sensitive to light; congestive 
headache; jerking pain in the head; also for people of fleshy habit. 

Arsenicum is a very potent remedy, the symptoms for which are burn- 
ing, tearing, intermittent pains, having a tendency to appear periodically; 
cold increases the pain, which is worse at night or during rest, and usually 
occurs on the left side. This remedy is especially adapted to cases marked 
by a general exhausted or debilitated condition; small pulse; pale face; 
cold extremities. 

Phosphorus. — In neuralgia from debilitated condition of the nervous 
system, especially when due to mental over-work. 

Spigelia. — Neuralgic headache and face-ache, especially when the eye 
is affected; pain wandering, darting about, and accompanied with twitching 
of the muscle on the side of the face; difficult breathing; palpitation of the 
heart, worse from touch, motion, and cold weather. 

Colocynth is especially adapted to neuralgia of the stomach; also when 
the pain is chiefly on the left side of the body, and better from application 
of warmth and rubbing. Sciatica, or neuralgia in the hip, with these symp- 
toms, is often relieved by this remedy. 

China or Quinia.— -When arising from malaria, or loss of blood; when 
periodical in character, occurring at a stated time in the day. 

Rhus. — Chronic sciatica; pain worse after first moving the parts, but 
grows better after use. 

Many times this difficulty can be relieved by external applications. 
Aconite or belladonna lotion affords much relief. It should be prepared b} r 
adding twenty or thirty drops of strong tincture to three or four tablespoon- 
fuls of water, and applied hot or cold, as most agreeable to the patient, by 
means of two or three folds of linen or cotton cloth. The strong tincture 
applied with a brush along the track of the nerve is also efficacious. In- 
stant relief may be secured by rubbing along the track of the nerve a lini- 
ment made of oil of mustard and sulphuric ether, one part of the former to 
four of the latter. 

A highly nutritious diet should be taken, including cod-liver oil and 
the animal fats generally. Insure protection from cold and strong draughts. 
Warm clothing, bathing in salt water, outdoor exercise, and rest when 



70 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the neuralgia occurs in over-worked patients, are essential. Sometimes 
a change of habits and climate is necessary to effect a cure. 

DELIRIUM TREMENS. 

Delirium tremens is a direct result of the use of alcoholic stimulants. 
The principal symptoms are sleeplessness; mental derangement, the mind 
being constantly disturbed by frightful visions; "the serpent in the cup 
stinging like an adder " presents, in its dreadful contortions, a terrible 
picture. The symptoms are much like those in inflammation of the brain, 
but the previous habits of the patient will be sufficient to distinguish the one 
from the other. 

The disorder usually comes on when the patient has been deprived of 
a powerful stimulant to which the nervous system has become accustomed 
by constant use. If the stomach becomes unable to retain such stimulant 
after it has been long continued, the same effects may follow. 

Treatment. — The best remedies in the earliest stages are nux vomica 
and kali bromidum, the latter especially being freely used. Have the 
patient take copious drinks of a strong decoction of Cayenne pepper. A 
teaspoonful of the extract of red Peruvian bark has proved beneficial in 
both relieving the patient in an attack, and removing the desire for stimu- 
lants. Total abstinence is, however, the only sure preventive of succeeding 
attacks. 

[I have controlled delirium tremens better with Jamaica dogwood 
(30 drops every hour) than with any other remedy. — Hale.] 

LOCK-JAW.— TETAN US. 

Tetanus is a general spasm of the body, the muscles sometimes assum- 
ing such a rigid state that the heels and head are drawn back together. 
Usually, however, it is confined to the face, closing the jaws so firmly as to 
prevent any separation whatever; whence the name "lock-jaw." 

It may arise from a disorder of the blood or nervous system, or from 
an injury, an amputation, a punctured wound, as a nail in the foot, a burn, 
the extraction of a tooth, and the like. 

Treatment. — Arnica, applied to the wound, and taken internally, 
often relieves. Belladonna, aconite, or nux vomica may be found useful. 
Sometimes surgical measures are necessary. 

It is not within the province of domestic treatment, and should receive 
skilled attendance at the first indication. Do not put confidence in the many 
silly newspaper specifics for the treatment of this really dangerous ailment, 
for you may be responsible for serious results. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 71 

HYDROPHOBIA.— MADNESS. 

This disorder results from the bite of a mad dog, cat, skunk, or other 
animal, or from an infected one licking any break in the skin. The symp- 
toms by which to determine whether an animal is infected are mentioned 
under Hydrophobia in the respective animals. 

Treatment. — The bite of a mad animal must be treated immediately ', 
the best methods for which are given under "Bites; Mad Dogs and Other 
Animals,'' in the chapter on Emergencies and Domestic Surgery. 

After receiving the bite, the patient will feel no effects during the 
period of incubation, which varies from a few weeks to a year or two, the 
wound perhaps having readily healed without leaving any remarkable 
traces. After that, should hydrophobia develop, the special symptoms will 
be vomiting; pain about the scar; a spasmodic affection of the muscles of 
the throat when an attempt is made to swallow, which makes the patient 
afraid to repeat the trial, and gives rise to a horror of all fluids. There is 
pain in the limbs, chest, and back; extreme sensitiveness of the surface of 
the body; mental agitation and terror; great thirst; very sticky saliva, the 
swallowing of which causes convulsions; lips and cheeks livid and constantly 
quivering; more frequent and violent convulsions, finally ending in death. 

In addition to treating the wounds as noted above, give belladonna fre- 
quently for a week, then once or twice daily for six months, or during the 
whole period of incubation. It should be administered every few minutes 
if the active symptoms come on. This remedy alone is said to have cured 
several cases of genuine hydrophobia. Scutellaria is another very superior 
drug, with claims almost equal to those of belladonna, and may be given in 
alternation with the latter. 

The Turkish bath is cordially recommended as an accessory measure. 
It should be taken at intervals, not too often, during incubation; also, if 
active symptoms appear. As a result of an experiment by an American 
physician, a dog suffering from hydrophobia was said to have been cured 
exclusively by this bath. 

The majority of those who have been bitten by mad dogs do not suffer 
from hydrophobia. The greatest number reported as dying after receiving 
such bites is two out of five, while some say not more than one in ten or 
twelve. These figures, though varying so much, show that the danger is 
greatly magnified. Indeed, some patients, either soon after the bite, or after 
brooding over their condition, have gone into convulsions, and died from 
sheer fright. It is, therefore, of great impoitance that the patient maintain 
a calm frame of mind during the full period of incubation, and attend to his 
regular duties. 



fZ COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

CRAMP OF WRITERS AND OTHERS. 

This is a spasm of the muscles of the fingers, due to overtaxing them 
in the duties of different occupations, as in writing, telegraphing, setting 
type, sewing with a needle, milking, and playing on musical instruments. 
It commences as a tired feeling in the hand after long-continued use, which 
increases until it interferes with the occupation, and obliges the patient to 
rest After a time, the nerves become s weakened that, upon any effort 
to perform the tasks which have caused the disorder, spasm is induced in 
the muscles controlling the fingers. 

Treatment. — Change the position of the hand when doing the 
accustomed work; in writing, for example, a large, light pen-holder may 
be used, or any other mechanical appliance by which the affected muscles 
can be relieved. The following remedies may be taken, one being tried, 
followed by another if relief is not experienced: Belladonna, gelseminum. 
nux vomica, ignatia, zincum and secale. The patient should think: of the 
disorder as little as possible, avoid all anxiety- about it, take free outdoor ex- 
ercise, and rest for a time from the occupation which has caused the de- 
rangement. 

NIGHTMARE. 

This is caused by overloading the stomach, especially in the latter part 
of the day. bv indigestible food, bv lying on the back, or by anv means that 
produces undue pressure on the blood-vessels which supply the brain. 
Regulation of the diet, as to times of eating, quantity and quality, and the 
maintenance of a proper position when in bed, are the preventives. Visions 
quite as disagreeable as those arising from nightmare may result from 
severe or long-continued weariness of the mind. Such cases can be sue 
fully treated only by correcting the habits. Some valuable suggestions will 
be found for this disorder under Xervous Exhaustion. 

SLEEPLESSXESS. 

I: is evident that sleeplessness is always a svmptom, never a dise.'ie. 
Yet, since it is of such frequent occurrence, some general observations upon 
it will be appreciated by the reader. It is sufficientlv spoken of, in those 
cases in which it attends a known disease, where such disease is treated in 
this work. 

When one finds that his sleep is deserting his pillow without some 
well-defined cause, he should give it attention at once. In a large propor- 
tion of cases, it will be found that the diet is the source of trouble. In such 
instances, careful observations should be made upon the diet as a whole, and 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 7} 

upon the special articles used. One will often learn from this source what 
course to pursue. In such observations it will frequently be noticed that, 
whereas the food has been taken with due care, tea or coffee has been the 
sole ground of mischief, though they, in turn, have different effects upon 
different people. Coffee is more liable to disturb the sleep than tea, es- 
pecially if taken at the same hour. Tea is, however, conducive to sleep in 
many individuals, while others are much robbed by its use. A cup of hot 
water, that has been boiled, will aid digestion, and thus prove an excellent 
means of correcting the disorder. 

Innumerable instances of sleeplessness, independent of disordered 
digestion, are found among those who are deeply engrossed with business 
which engages their thoughts when the mind should be at rest. These 
cases, if taken at the beginning, require only such recreations as will divert 
the mind, or, at most, a change of work for a greater or less time. The 
first appearance of such derangement should be sufficient to induce one to 
set about its correction at once. Cooling the head with cold water, and 
keeping the feet warm and the body perfectly comfortable in the bed, will 
usually be sufficient, if the means are adopted at first. 

Neglect of this disorder will sooner or later give one a place among 
the great numbers of those whose nervous systems have been so seriously 
over-taxed that the curtailing of duties does not win baok the coveted sleep, 
and the patient spends hours of the night in unrest and mental distress. 
The vital energies decline, and a strong desire is felt for stimulants, the 
taking of which but adds fuel to the fire. Opiates are used, but they either 
soon lose their efficacy, or wholly unfit the patient for sleep, and, at best, de- 
range the system In these cases, when sleeplessness is the only marked 
symptom, a strict regimen is preferable to all drugs. The most desirable 
step is to leave the labors and scenes in the midst of which the disorder 
has been developed, and to engage in some other congenial pursuit until re- 
covery. Whether making such change or not, the following simple rules 
will be of great service, and generally correct the trouble. 

1. Carefully guard the diet, especially insuring perfect ease of the 
stomach before and after retiring. 

2. Before retiring, avoid laborious mental effort, and seek light and 
agreeable diversions. 

3. Take exercise in the sun and open air, to such an extent as your 
experience shall dictate, guarding against too much in the evening. See 
Exercise and Abuse of Exercise, in the chapter on Hygiene. 

4. Attend to regular baths, selecting from the list in our article on 
Baths, such a kind as experiment shall prove best for you, remembering 
that they are sometimes taken too often. 



7-i COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

5. Drink all the cold water you wish, especially before retiring. Cool 
the head with cold water in the evening. 

6. Retire early; be sure the bed is comfortable in all particulars; use 
covering enough to insure warmth, especially of the feet, but avoid an over- 
supply, since that is as bad as a deficiency. 

7. Yield to inclinations to sleep during the day. Short "naps" then 
are best, and are favorable to good sleep at night. 

8. Remembering that normal sleep is voluntary, exercise the will, and 
patiently cultivate its power. Sleeplessness is often but a sequel of the 
will surrendering its rightful authority, and allowing the intellectual facul- 
ties to gain the mastery, and run away with the mind. This fact is not suf- 
ficiently regarded by those who are sleepless, but its truth becomes more 
apparent as time goes on, and the hold of the will becomes weaker and 
weaker. 

9. Do not use stimulants of any kind. 

10. Avoid all medicines until after a thorough trial of the foregoing 
rules. 

Though it is preferable to correct the ill entirely by hygienic regula- 
tions, some remedies may be given as aids in a general treatment, or for 
relief when the cause is something temporary, as indigestion, grief or anxiety. 

Pulsatilla is good for sleeplessness after eating too freely. 

Ignatia, when grief, disappointment, indignation, or other vexation is the 
cause. 

Opium, after fear or fright, or when disagreeable visions attend the 
closing of the eyes; also for convulsive jerking after falling asleep; when 
long watching is the cause. 

Give aconite if sleeplessness arises from perplexing or exciting events. 

Nux vomica. — When resulting from close mental application, or from 
dyspepsia, or from drinking coffee. 

Coffea. — When caused by excessive joy or other over-excitement. It 
is also good if drinking tea is the cause, though china is best in such a case. 

Scutellaria. — For fidgetiness of limbs at night; restlessness; sudden 
wakefulness; bad dreams. 

Gelseminum is needed where there is no disposition to sleep, especially in 
the so-called "hysterical," or in nervous excitement; for persistent recur- 
rence to the mind of the affairs of the day. 

Belladonna. — Eager but vain desire to sleep; agitation; anguish; fright- 
ful scenes; timidity; frequent starting. 

Kali bromidum and phosphite of zinc are good general remedies. 

Koumiss, before retiring, is superior. 

The remedies should be selected with reference to the exciting- cause, 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 75 

and to the disposition and constitution of the individual. They should be 
used only as accessories to hygienic observances. If they be wholly de- 
pended on, the case will almost certainly become chronic. 

Many have lost sleep for a long time, and have then found that cold 
feet have been the sole cause. In such a case, use hot bottles, friction, walk- 
ing, any other inechanical means for warming the feet. Take internally 
ammonium carbonicum, graphites, and sulphur, one of them twice a day 
for a few days, then another in the same way, allowing an interval between 
them of a few days. Again, the feet may be so warm as to prevent sleep, 
and should be bathed in cold water at night, while nitric acid, silecea, cal- 
carea carbonica and sulphur are used in the way indicated for remedies for 
cold feet. Read the articles on Sleep and The Bed, under Hygiene. 

The languor incident to loss of sleep is a temptation to use stimulants 
for temporary relief, which should be resisted, lest bad habits be formed. 
Besides, in domestic treatment at any rate, alcohol, opium (as a stimulant), 
chloral, morphine, and the like, should never be used. 

If sleeplessness has continued for a long time, it is a serious matter, 
and demands thorough treatment. Should the patient not get the desired 
help from the means here given, he should consult the article on Nervous 
Exhaustion. 

NERVOUS EXHAUSTION. 

No other word in the English language, perhaps, is used to designate 
disorders of the body with such a bewildering diversity of meaning, and 
such a vagueness of ideas, as "nervousness." Restlessness, quick muscular 
movements under slight stimulus, an air of impatience at petty annoyances, 
and like manifestations, are looked upon as disagreeable peculiarities of the 
"nervous," and, since they are supposed to be under the control of the 
will, and their occurrence therefore inexcusable, they give rise to reproving 
mention of "hysterics," "low spirits," " hypochondria," and the like. 

From a study of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, 
as given above, the reader has learned that the nerves extend to the whole 
body, and copiously distribute their fibers to the minutest parts of the tis- 
sues. A disorder in any part of these delicately woven fibers can be easily 
extended to others. Again, since the functions of all the organs depend 
upon the nervous force supplied to them, any derangement of the nerves 
will react upon the organs to which they are distributed. " Nervousness," 
therefore, often produces defects in digestion, circulation, secretions, or other 
functions, and is thus the cause of many disorders of which it is usually 
considered only a symptom. 

This complex distribution of the nerves and susceptibility to varied dis- 



76 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

turbances is the source of a multitude of nervous ailments. The one under 
present consideration is of frequent and increasing occurrence, and is suf- 
ficiently defined by the words Nervous Exhaustion, or the technical word 
Neurasthenia. It has been called the "American Disease," because it occurs 
more frequently in North America than elsewhere, especially in the Northern 
States. It is caused by labored, strained or long-continued mental exercise, 
sudden and violent emotion, undue excitement of the appetites and passions, 
prolonged anxiety, heredity. Its hereditary tendency is very marked, and 
it may result from epilepsy in one's ancestry, from insanity, sick-headache, 
neuralgia, hysteria, or hay fever; or it may be transmitted in the form of 
any of these. It runs in families "more demonstrably than scrofula, or 
cancer, or consumption." 

Symptoms. — The greater proportion of the symptoms of this disease 
are not patent even to the eve of the physician, and can be learned only 
from the mouth of the patient. This peculiarity makes the disorder, in 
many instances, particularly subject to domestic practice. The directions, 
therefore, given in this discussion will be an invaluable aid to the physician 
when his service is sought, and will also offer a detailed self-treatment. 

The leading indications differ in different persons, exhaustion of the 
brain being most marked in one, that of the spinal cord in another, nervous 
disorders of the heart and circulation in a third, or of the stomach in a 
fourth, and so on. The symptoms are necessarily very numerous, one or 
more having the first prominence in one person, and others in another; or, 
in the same patient, one symptom or several being most noticeable one day 
or hour, but different ones the next. 

One of the most interesting and misleading symptoms is the flattering 
appearance of health presented by the patient, which, to the uninformed, in 
whose view strong muscle is good health, suggests that a morbid imagina- 
tion or hysteria is the only trouble. The muscular development may be 
complete, with great endurance of physical exertion, as when the brain es- 
pecially is exhausted; or a little exercise may cause fatigue in these per- 
fect muscles, as when the main exhaustion is in the spine; or endurance 
and sudden fatigue may irregularly succeed each other, as when both brain 
and spine are affected. Digestion may be normal, increased, or even enor- 
mous, though freaks of indigestion almost surely occur. The expression 
of the face is clear and intelligent, often best in the worst attacks, as after a 
specially sleepless night. Capacity for the discharge of regular duties may 
be unchanged. The patient perhaps escapes fevers, rheumatism and other 
inflammatory troubles with which his associates, of better general health, 
are afflicted. Indeed, the abnormal activity of the nervous system is some- 
thing of a protection against such diseases. 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 77 

Indications more palpable to the general observer are quick motions, 
tremor in fatigue or excitement; starting at sharp and unexpected noises; 
irritability at slight confusion, and in conversation; impatience of opposition; 
general excitability; sensitiveness to heat and cold; flushing and paleness 
of face; twitching of muscles; cold hands; gaping and yawning; changing 
expression of the eye. 

The most distressing symptoms the patient only experiences, such as 
the following: Sleeplessness from no apparent cause, the mind being pro- 
vokingly capricious, flitting about despite attempted restraints of the will, 
the patient tossing upon the bed or walking the floor, with a feeling of 
general misery, which is felt in no particular locality. One patient falls 
asleep at once upon retiring, but is soon awake, to so continue the re- 
mainder of the night; while another is awake until a late hour, and sleeps 
well thereafter; or these symptoms may appear in the same person at dif- 
ferent times. Sudden twitching of the muscles comes on as one is passing 
off to sleep, by which he is instantaneously driven from sleep as com- 
pletely as ever; this twitching sometimes produces the impression of having 
been tossed up from the bed along one's whole length. The patient ex- 
periences ludicrous, confusing or frightful dreams ; an inclination to keep the 
bed in the morning, even though fully awake, with feelings of greater ex- 
haustion than upon retiring; great variations of strength, buoyancy being 
followed by the greatest exhaustion, like a collapse of the joints; cheerful- 
ness and aptitude for work suddenly giving place to utter indisposition to 
all activity ; general languor, with a craving for stimulants, especially those 
for whose use a habit has been formed; drowsiness during the day, with an 
inability to sleep; heaviness of the limbs; extreme restlessness at times; press- 
ure and heaviness in the head ; hopelessness; indecision; disturbed circula- 
tion, with palpitation and fluttering of the heart, especially when lying 
down; heat in the head and spine; throbbing in all parts of the body; 
rumbling in the ears; sick-headache; diminished thirst; dryness of skin, 
joints and mucous membranes, the hands and feet however often being ab- 
normally moist; tenderness in some or all parts of the body; nervous chills; 
cold feet; flashes of heat; cramps in the muscles, sometimes very painful 
and relieved only by strong tension; feelings as of taking cold; numbness 
in different parts; local temporary paralysis, relieved by rubbing; rapidity 
of speech, often with thick enunciation, halting as in the stammering of 
paralysis, and running of words together; flitting pains; itching on some or 
all parts of the body; increase of urine at times; irritation and irregularity 
in the genital organs; unreasonable and irresistible fancies about the fidelity 
of friends; morbid fears, directed against any kind of an object, generally 
persisting though the patient sees they are utterly groundless. 



78 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

This fear is but one phenomenon of a symptom which is perhaps the 
most disheartening to a patient of intellectual aims and habits, namely : De- 
ficient control of the mind, which persists not only at night, as noticed 
above, but during the day as well; the mind wandering from a subject in 
which it has taken a lively interest a moment before; flying away again in 
an instant if it has been forced back by the will; an aimless, dreamy mood 
may come on, in which the imagination takes the most unaccountable 
freaks, the patient becoming aroused in his whole being over the images 
which have, for the time, all the force of reality ; attentive reading is often 
impossible, and even a simple passage may be repeatedly read without being 
comprehended, though the eye has been intently fixed and the words recog- 
nized in their true forms and grammatical relations; this exaggerates any 
existing mental irritability, and the patient, feverish and excited, leaps up 
and starts on a rapid walk, or otherwise gives vent to his accumulated feel- 
ing, and so gains momentary relief. 

The disease may, in extreme cases, go on until great distress is caused 
by the least noise, with an almost or complete inability to even walk, and 
other signs of the most delicate excitability. Insanity, or some kindred dis- 
order, sometimes takes place, either in the patient or his offspring. 

A careful study of this catalogue of symptoms and of himself will show 
the "neurasthenic" that he is subject to more of them than would be at 
first supposed. Though most patients will not have all of them, some will 
experience them all, and even more. It is of the utmost importance that 
special notice be given to the exceedingly capricious, and oftentimes incon- 
gruous and contradictory, character of these symptoms. Their vacillating 
nature is one of the most constant manifestations of the disease. 

From likeness of symptoms, other disorders are liable to confusion with 
nervous exhaustion. Organic diseases, in which the structure of the ner- 
vous tissue is breaking down, may be included in this class, but they can be 
distinguished, in general, by the stability of their symptoms, which are 
much the same all the time, while in nervous exhaustion they are very fit- 
ful, as already noticed. 

Hypochondria is marked by fear of some disease, as the main symptom. 
This simple distinction shows how loosely the general public and some 
physicians use terms, when they call by this name many other diseases. 
"Hypochondria" and "hysterics" are convenient cloaks for ignorance. 

Confusion with hysteria will be removed by comparing the symptoms 
named under its treatment with the above catalogue. 

Anaemia, an impoverished condition of the blood, often confounded 
with nervous exhaustion, and with a good deal of reason, will be distin- 
guished by an examination of the following parallel tables of symptoms : — 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



79 



ANEMIA. 

i. Watery condition of blood, with marked 
paleness, especially on lips. 

2. Small, weak, soft pulse, and continued 
disturbance of circulation ; cold extremi- 
ties. 

3. Sleeplessness not frequent; often ab- 
normal ability to sleep. 

4. Fatigue from slight exertion; physical 
labor always more exhausting than men- 
tal. 

5. Perhaps, and generally, no disturbance 
of mental faculties, and no mental de- 
pression. 

6. Generally connected with some organic 
disease outside of the nervous system. 

7. Occurs at any period from birth to old 
age; much oftener in females than in 
males. 

8. Benefited by remedies for the blood, 
such as iron. 



9. Recovery may be rapid upon removal 
of the organic disease, and enriching of 
the blood. 



NERVOUS EXHAUSTION. 

1. Healthful blood and color, sometimes 
redness of face. 

2. Full or normal pulse, at times very 
slow or very rapid ; circulation normal or 
irregularly disturbed. 

3. Sleeplessness very frequent and stub- 
born. 

4. Fatigue sometimes from slight exertion, 
sometimes not from a great deal ; mental 
labor (especially in brain exhaustion) 
more wearing than physical. 

5. Consecutive thought and strained men- 
tal activity at times impossible, memory 
often temporarily weak, and mental de- 
pression almost universal. 

6. Has no natural or essential connection 
with disease in organs outside of nervous 
system. 

7. Occurs mainly between ages of sixteen 
and sixty ; rather less often in females 
than in males. 

8. Benefited little or none by remedies for 
the blood, but by those for nervous sys- 
tem, such as are given under "Treat- 
ment" below. 

9. Recovery almost surely gradual, and 
under combination treatment. 



Treatment. — Professor Beard, whose inquiries into this disease have 
been most valuable and of the highest order, speaks thus of this and kindred 
nervous diseases : " Although they are not directly fatal and so do not ap- 
pear in the mortality tables; although, on the contrary, they may tend to 
prolong life and protect the system against febrile and inflammatory diseases, 
}'et the amount of suffering that they cause is enormous. Volumes are 
written on typhoid and other fevers; but in this country these neuroses, al- 
though not fatal, cause more distress and annoyance than all forms of fevers 
combined, excepting perhaps those of a malarious origin. Fevers kill, it is 
true; but to many death is by no means the most disagreeable of the many 
symptoms of disease." From these words the patient may draw the conso- 
lation that, though his case is worse than uncharitable neighbors have sup- 
posed, it is not one of imminent danger. It will be of the highest import- 
ance in the treatment if the patient cultivates a spirit of hope by learning 
that his chances of long life are rather above the average, and that, if proper 
treatment be continued with patience for the required time, a cure is 



SO COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

within his reach. A large proportion of sufferers from this disorder have a 
fear, more or less constant, of one or more of four things, namely, heart 
disease, paralysis, insanity, or sudden death. Experience in thousands of 
cases has shown that nervous exhaustion has no special liability to these, 
while the chances, as said before, of prolonged life are rather improved. If 
this burden of mind can be thrown off, a long stride has been made in the 
treatment. 

Though not imminently dangerous, this disease is so complicated that, 
if possible, one should always consult a physician who has made such dis- 
orders a special studv. In the absence of this special aid, resort should be 
had to one of intelligence who can be relied upon to exercise patience and 
critical studv, virtues which ail busy physicians have not the time to 
practice. 

Whatever the counsel, one must rely on self-treatment to a great de- 
gree, and should make a careful study of his case, with a comparison of the 
above statements; self-treatment alone will always be beneficial, and very 
often sufficient. 

Do not be discouraged at apparent relapses. In the most nattering 
conditions the disease is liable to assert itself with sudden and peculiar force. 
Avoid over-dosing. Self-treatment is generally over-treatment. Use 
the remedies and expedients as directed. 

If a habit has been formed of using alcohol, tobacco, or other stimu- 
lants, break it off. If you can do so, it may be best to stop it gradually. 
If not, do so at once. As improvement begins and tone returns to the sys- 
tem, the desire for the poison will diminish. 

If there are complications of the genitals, read the closing remarks in 
the chapter on the Urinary Organs. 

The treatment must be a combination of the local, constitutional and 
hygienic. Dependence upon one alone will bring failure. Carefully study 
the following remedies and expedients, make a rational combination of 
them, and give such combination a fair trial before dropping it. However 
good the treatment, change it at intervals, not waiting until it has lost its 
efficacy. At times leave off all treatment. Improvement may be even 
more apparent during such periods, but that is no signal for remitting sys- 
tematic attention. Resume some combination in a week or ten davs. It 
may be found a good rule to make every third week a cessation of all 
treatment. 

Hygiene. — Exercise. — Though a considerable degree of exercise is 
almost without exception, of much value, and specially needed in nervous 
troubles, it is very often abused, as when it requires the expending of more 
energy than the system can afford. Whatever the kind of exercise chosen, it 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 81 

is often found that one may be injured by an amount which another re- 
quires, and the same patient will require or endure a different amount at 
different times. Experience must determine this. If extreme exhaustion 
or restlessness results from exercise, it is clearly too vigorous, and should be 
diminished or discontinued. Read on exercise, and the abuse of it, under 
Hygiene. 

Change. — Generally, not always, a change of scene is beneficial, the 
time varying from a day to months, and even a permanent change in loca- 
tion may be best. Traveling benefits some and seriously injures others, a 
remark which likewise applies to sight-seeing. A sojourn in a warm cli- 
mate is often very healthful. Mountainous air, at elevations from fifteen 
hundred to three thousand feet, is generally better than a seaside resort, though 
this is frequently good. Elevations of five thousand feet and upward are 
highly injurious in most or all cases. 

Rest is to be recommended in almost every case, but generally it need 
not be long continued at one time. Those of vigorous mental exercise do 
better to perform a moderate amount of their accustomed labor. Complete 
cessation of duties is not advisable, but a change of employment is of the 
greatest importance, in some cases positively necessary. Much rest with 
moderate work is a good rule. 

The Clothing should be warm, the perfect comfort of the patient being 
the criterion. A greater quantity will be needed than in normal health. 

The Diet must be largely regulated by the wants of the individual 
patient. It will often be found that an increased amount is required, with 
greater frequency of meals. Sometimes a very little, a mouthful or two, 
will be invaluable in the night when sleeplessness persists. Experience 
must determine this, as also the best kinds and amount of food, and their 
frequency. Over-feeding is evidently bad. Articles containing starch and 
sugar should be avoided, but fish, oysters, milk, butter, and in general, the 
oils and fats, should be freely used, as the stomach will bear them. Coffee 
tends to produce sleeplessness ; tea also in some cases, though it is very bene- 
ficial in others. In very severe forms of the disease, use a milk diet 
frequently fed. 

Remedies. — In these, as in other means, the best choice for a given 
patient is determined by trial. Caprice in symptoms will be attended by ca- 
price of effects from medicines. This remark holds true also as to the dose, 
some requiring larger ones than others. It may be necessary for the patient 
to begin with the usual dose and slowly increase, if he feels no effects, up to 
a reasonable point. 

Bromides are among the most common and most useful remedies. 
They not only allay irritation, but have curative properties as well. 



82 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Bromide of potassa is indicated by exhaustion from a deficient supply of 
blood in the brain; loss of memory; difficulty in expressing one's thoughts 
or enunciating certain words; absence of mind; melancholy; delusions; op- 
tical illusions; spasmodic asthma; sleeplessness from abnormal amount of 
blood in the brain. 

Bromide of soda is useful for much the same conditions as those just 
described, but is preferable, since it causes less irritation to the mucous sur- 
faces and its prolonged use does not produce as bad effects. Both of these 
bromides should be used in moderate doses much diluted with water. 

Bromide of camphor relieves many symptoms, especially hysteria; 
sleeplessness; cold extremities; feeble circulation; nervous headache; indi- 
gestion from nervous debility following strong nervous emotions, and diar- 
rhoea from the same cause. 

Phosphates and phosphites are prepared in different ways, and all pos- 
sess more or less merit, though their value is sadly overrated. The most 
commonly used are acid phosphates, and Churchill's formula of the hypo- 
phosphites. 

Acid phosphates will be useful in the exhaustion following sunstroke, 
mental overwork, indigestion and sleeplessness; they should be used with 
care, for they are so stimulating that pronounced serious results have followed 
their injudicious administration. 

Hypophosphites of lime, soda and potassa, may be used when these 
elements are deficient in the blood. They act as food to the nerves and 
build up the unnatural waste in the nervous system. 

Zinc, either the valerianate, bromide or phosphite, is useful in relieving 
the neuralgia which is one of the most common sequences of nervous ex- 
haustion; also for chronic cases, with involuntary movements of one or 
more of the muscles. 

Arsenicum is indicated by a low condition of the system, due to defici- 
ent blood -supply or other cause, its special indications being diarrhoea; cold 
or sweating of the feet and hands; sweating at night; weak circulation; 
general impoverished or run-down system. It should be used a long time 
to get its best effects. 

Petroleum may be found useful in many conditions of nervous exhaus- 
ton, such as sick headache; chronic headache, involuntary muscular move- 
ments; difficulty of speech, with inability to articulate certain words or let- 
ters; staggering when walking; paralysis from exhaustion. 

[Picric acid and picrate of ammonia are reliable remedies for mental 
exhaustion and the ache in the back of the head and neck so common in 
this disorder. — Hale.] 

Cod-liver oil, cream and butter are food for the nerves, and if used ju- 



MAN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 83 

diciously, as the stomach can bear them, are valuable as remedies. A good 
reliable emulsion of the oil and the hypophosphites of lime and soda is the 
best form for use. 

Koumiss has valuable nutritive properties which are enumerated at 
some length in the article on consumption. It is so readily absorbed when 
taken into the stomach that it taxes that organ very little. It is very effica- 
cious in inducing sleep, and often produces most refreshing effects when 
taken upon retiring. 

Alcohol, opium, chloral, morphine and the like, because of their 
immediate effects and the danger of acquiring habits far worse than the 
disease, are not to be used in self treatment, under any circumstances. 

External Treatment. — Electricity is unquestionably a valuable 
expedient in most cases of nervous exhaustion. Its legitimate effects are of 
course lost, and evil ones produced, by abusing it. It is always best to have 
it applied by an expert, and should never be used by one who has not been 
fully instructed as to the best methods. Injudicious use of it has aroused an 
unreasonable prejudice against it. It may be seriously doubted whether 
any of the advertised galvanic belts, pads and other appliances are of any 
value, since most of them are known to be useless. 

Mcmi 'filiations of various kinds are useful, often highly so. Pinching 
the surface of the body over the trunk and extremities is one form. An- 
other method is tapping the whole body with the fingers. A third, slapping 
with the palm of the hands, increasing as the patient bears it. Another, 
pinching the muscles by grasping the flesh, as deeply as one can, in the hands. 
Still another, the moving back and forth of all the joints, from the 
shoulders and hips to the fingers and toes. These manipulations give 
tone and regularity to the circulation, and quiet the whole body. They 
may be continued from ten minutes to an hour, may be taken every day 
or less often, and may be joined or not with the use of electricity. Though 
perhaps disagreeable at first, they will become very grateful and desirable 
upon repetition. Mild rubbing of the body with the hands, though not 
equal to the forms just named, often has a most soothing effect. 

Water is undoubtedly a valuable expedient, though an exclusive treat- 
ment with it is not recommended. The Turkish and Russian baths, among 
the very best of means, have been too much praised and too indiscriminatel}' 
used. Injuries certainly have resulted from them, but mainly because the 
patient has remained too long in the hot atmosphere, or has taken them too 
often. A rational and thorough trial of them is recommended, as also of 
the other kinds described in the division of this book on Baths. Their 
respective merits can thus be ascertained. It is not necessarily an unfavor- 
able indication if the first application of a bath appears to aggravate the 



84 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

symptoms which it was designed to correct. Such has been the experience 
when a continued use has proved its excellence. Even an expert is liable 
to err in administering a bath until he has learned the temperament and 
constitution of the patient. In general, there is danger of using baths too 
much, after they have once been begun. 

Compresses should be used with as much care as baths. They may be 
hot or cold. Wet sheets, covered with dry ones, are of advantage. Wet 
cloths, with thick dry ones over them, may be beneficially applied, in some 
cases, to the stomach, liver, and genitals. 

Ice and Hot Water are both useful, a fact which suggests the contra- 
dictory character of the disease in different stages, patients, and conditions. 
Bags or cloths filled with broken ice may have a grateful and helpful effect 
when applied to the spine or top of the head, but there is danger of leaving 
them too long. Cloths wrung out in hot water are as likely to impart 
benefit as the cold applications, and the two are sometimes best used in 
alternation, each a minute or two at a time. 

Counter- Irritation is of the highest value, and may be used in connec- 
tion with any other means of treatment, but should obviously be applied 
with care and wisdom. It has been much condemned because much per- 
verted. This expedient is specially desirable for tenderness in any part of 
the spine. A blister one inch long and a half-inch wide, laid lengthwise 
along the spine, is a proper size and mode of application. Large ones are 
not good. Great care should be taken to adapt the size and strength of the 
blister to the constitution and temperament of the patient. It can be left on 
until it comes off of its own accord. Another should then be put on and 
the application be kept up, as one will do no permanent good, however agree- 
able it may be. The blisters found in the market are not always reliable, 
and are often unfit for use. A good one is made of a strip of rubber ad- 
hesive plaster, of the size mentioned above, with a very small quantity of 
cantharides ointment spread over the center, or put in spots along the center. 

Other expedients in treatment, suitable only in the hands of the 
physician, are not here given. A careful lookout should be kept up for 
any local derangements that may cause or aggravate this disorder. If any 
such are found, the treatment should be directed toward them, though the 
constitutional and hygienic measures may be taken up at the same time. 
Cheer, patience, and persistence are of the highest importance and necessity. 



CHAPTER IV. 
THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 



ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

c i[p||fROM the following description of organs the reader may get a de- 
y=(( tailed and continuous picture of the coin plicated process of digestion, 
which will make the subsequent treatment of diseases more graphic 
and intelligible. 

THE TEETH. 

During the first three years the primary teeth, twenty in number, de- 
4" 3" € \" 




19. Section of the Jaws. 
to S, Primary Teeth. 1' to S', First Growth of 
Permanent Teeth. 



20. Section of a Tooth. 

a, b, c and d, indicate respectively the 

enamel, cavity, roots, and bodv 

of the Tooth. 



velop in the child. At the age of six, four more appear and become a part 
of the permanent set, one on either side of each jaw. About the age of 
seven, the first-named twenty begin to come out and give place to the per- 

85 



86 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



manent teeth. After this change, three appear in the back part of either 
jaw, the last at about the twenty-first year, thus completing the permanent 
set. There are now sixteen teeth on each jaw, each half-jaw having two 
flat, sharp ones in front for cutting, with a long and somewhat pointed one 
next to them. Behind these are two larger and broader ones, and still 
further back the large and powerful grinders, or molars. It is readily seen 
how these different kinds of teeth are formed to cut, tear, crush, and grind 
the food. 




21. Sectiox of the Jaws, 
i to S, Permanent Teeth. 7, A Vertical Section showing the cavity, blood-vessels and nerves. 



THE SALIVARY GLANDS. 

Near the lining membrane of the mouth are three pairs of small sacs, 
covered with a tracery of little blood-vessels, which are called salivary 
glands. During mastication, or chewing, a colorless, watery, frothy fluid, 
known as saliva, passes out of these glands, through small tubes, into the 
mouth, unites with the food, reduces it to a pulpy mass ready for swallow- 
ing, and effects chemical changes preparatory to the later stages of digestion. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 



8 



It is not easy to overrate the importance of chewing, and the mixture 
of the saliva. Unlike the other steps in digestion, these are under the con- 
trol of the will, and great care should be taken to allow ample time for a 
thorough preparation of the food for swallowing. Rapid eating will almost 
surely be attended with an excessive use of drinks in place of the requisite 
saliva. By such haste again, hard pieces of food pass to the stomach and 
induce indigestion or other painful disorders, 

THE CESOPHAGUS AND STOMACH. 

The gullet, or oesophagus, is a strong, cartilaginous tube, eight or nine 
inches long, capable of complicated, 
worm-like movements, by which the 
food is swallowed, or carried down into 
the stomach. 

The stomach is oblong or pear- 
shaped, thin, and easily distended, with 
an average capacity of about three pints 
in the adult. When food enters it, its 
lining membrane becomes a deep red, 
from an underlying network of minute 
blood-vessels, and furnishes a clear, acid 
fluid, called gastric juice. This mingles 
with the ■ food and effects changes in 
some of its elements, making part of 





Salivary Gland. 



23. Organs of Digestion. 

O. — Upper Part of OEsophagus. 

S. — Stomach. 

L. — Liver. 

M. — Lower Opening of the Stomach. 

I. — Small intestine. 

C— Large Intestine. 

P. — Pancreas. 

A. — Spleen. 

G.— Gall -Bladder. 



them ready to pass into the circulation, the stomach meanwhile keeping up 
continual movements, during the presence of the food, to insure a complete 
mixture. Some parts of the food are absorbed at this point by the blood- 
vessels, and pass up into the right side of the heart, whence they are carried 
as nutriment to all parts of the body by the circulation. 



88 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



The lower opening of the stomach, with remarkable precision, keeps 
in that organ all substances which the gastric juice can change, but allows 
all others to pass into the upper pan of the intestine, or duodenum. 

THE LIVER, PANCREAS, AND SPLEEN. 

The liver, the largest gland in the human body, is situated on the right 
side, behind and above the stomach. Its office in digestion is to furnish a 
yellowish, very bitter fluid, called bile, which it separates from the blood 
and collects on its under side in a sac, or gall-bladder. The bile is more 
active in formation during digestion, and passes through a tube into the 

upper part of the intestine, or duode- 
num. It is some times called "nature's 
cathartic." 

The pancreas is a gland behind the 
stomach that furnishes a clear, sticky 
fluid, called pancreatic juice, which also 
passes into the duodenum along with 
the bile, and aids in digestion. 

The spleen is a gland on the left, and 
behind the stomach, whose office is not 
well understood. Though it has no 
tube running to the stomach, as the liver 
and pancreas have, it has an important 
influence upon certain elements of the 
food, and, through the blood, on diges- 
tion generally. 

THE INTESTINES. 

Continuous with the duodenum is 
the small, winding intestine, about 
twenty feet in length, which is, in its 
turn, continued by the large intestine, 
about five feet long. While food is in 
them, it is carried forward by move- 
ments similar to those in the stomach. When the food enters the duo- 
denum, it is mingled with the bile and pancreatic juice, coming together out 
of the bile-tube mentioned above. Bv the action of these it undergoes 
further changes, its digestible parts becoming a milky fluid, called chyle, 
while all that is not digestible passes on through the intestines. The chyle, 
coming in contact with the lining membrane of the intestine, which is ar- 
ranged in complicated folds, unites with a fluid, called intestinal juice, 




.-. C:-:z;r .-.::- Ae~::-:z:: v.-;th Lxtestive.-. 



E. — Large Intestine. 

G. — Srr.ai; Intestine. 
A. B. C. D.— The Heart, Lungs 
and Liver, respectively. 



Stomach 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 



M 



secreted by a copious supply of glands, which corrects the results of any 
imperfect action of the juices previously mentioned. 

Though digestion proper is completed with the formation of the chyle, 
this is not the end. The intestines, especially the small one, are even more 
copiously supplied with blood-vessels than the stomach, and these absorb 
the chyle with wonderful activity. Their lining membrane is also supplied 
with innumerable elevations, or villi, which reach out and absorb the chyle, 
their blood-vessels carrying it up to the heart. In the small intestine are 
still other minute vessels, called lacteals, starting in the villi and running 
along by the side of the blood-vessels. These unite to form one canal, the 




25. Mucous Membrane and Villi of the Intestines 

(highly magnified). 



I. — Outer Cellular Layer. 

3. — Under Layer of Fiber 

2. — Vein. 

4.— Villi. 

5. — Section of Villus, with outer 

layer, blood-vessels and lacteals. 
6. — Villus with part of outer layer 

removed. 



•7. — Villus whollv stripped. 
8.— Lacteals. 
10, 11 and 12. — Glands between the 

Villi. 
9.— Mouth of Gland. 
13. — Capillaries surrounding- the 
same. 



thoracic duct, through which they carry their contents, which they absorb 
from the food in the intestines, up into the heart, whence they are driven, 
mingled with the blood, into the circulation for the nourishment of the body. 
It will be seen from the foregoing that digestion is the process by 
which food is wrought up into suitable form for the repair of the waste in 
the body. It prepares the material and surrenders it to the blood, the archi- 
tect of the body, whose functions are set forth in the next chapter. It will 
be readily inferred, from the number of the digestive organs and their com- 
plex functions, that any disturbance in one will be readily felt in the others. 



90 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Indeed, almost all parts of the body are affected by disorders of these organs, 
and the reader can see abundant reason for complications arising in the 
nervous system, the circulation, and other parts, from deranged digestion, 
and vice versa. It will not be difficult again to understand why so much 
stress is laid upon diet by all intelligent writers upon health. 

TEETHING.— DENTITION. 

There are three periods during which the human teeth pass through 
the gums. The one which is liable to produce disturbance, begins at the 
age of six months, and ends at or near the commencement of the third year. 
When the child is about four months old, the rudiments of the teeth begin 
to harden and force themselves through the gums. At this time, the child 
appears ill, is fretful, starts and cries out in its sleep, has fever, thirst, rest- 
lessness or drowsiness; the irritation goes to the surface and produces a rash; 
or to the bowels, and causes diarrhoea ; or to the lungs, and induces cough; 
or to the brain, and is followed by convulsions. These are all important 
symptoms, and contribute much toward the di> eases and mortality of infancy. 

Because of these symptoms, many children are drugged with anodynes, 
at the hands of a Winslow or Godfrey, and not only diseased digestive 
organs but a weakened and perverted constitution are the result, when 
death does not claim them before. 

Treatment. — Aconite. — For fever; thirst; hot skin; parched mouth; 
quickened pulse; restlessness. 

Chamomilla. — Feverishness, with perspiration and thirst; convulsions; 
drawing up of the limbs; diarrhoea, with pain in the bowels; peevishness; 
restlessness. 

Belladonna. — Flushed face; high fever; starts in sleep; wakening 
in fright, and with staring eyes; pupils dilated; dry cough; rapid breathing; 
convulsions; irritability; all the symptoms growing worse at night. Give 
coffea for wakefulness. 

Calcarea carbonica. — When the teeth are slow in making their 
appearance. 

Xux vomica. — Constipation, with indigestion. Mercurius, when the 
ear is implicated. 

TOOTHACHE. 

The surest, and many times the only treatment, is a prompt application 
to a skillful dentist. However, diseases other than decav often occur and 
are readily relieved by medicine, while even in cases of decay remedies 
sometimes give great relief. There are various causes of toothache, the 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 91 

most general being rheumatic, catarrhal, nervous (through sympathy with 
disturbances elsewhere), the collection of tartar on the sides of the teeth or 
its socket, and taking cold. The teeth are so copiously supplied with 
nerves that a general nervous derangement will be marked by more or 
less uneasiness in the teeth. 

Treatment. — The remedies which have the power to relieve in most 
cases and which have given the best satisfaction are given, with their 
symptoms. 

Chamomilla. — Drawing or jerking pain, attended by heat and redness 
of the side of the face, aggravated by eating; teeth feel long and loose. 

Nux vomica. — Throbbing, gnawing pain, worse from eating, or ex- 
posure to the open air; when the cause is indigestion. 

Mercuriu*. — Shooting pains in side of face, extending to the ears; 
thirst; swelling of the gums; pain increased during the night and by cold 
food or drink. 

Pulsatilla. — Shooting pain, extending to the ear on the side affected, 
aggravated by warmth and by rest, but relieved by cold; pale face. 

Belladonna. — Throbbing pain; flushed face; sound teeth seem to be 
affected; pain confined to one side. 

Aconite. — Fever with acute, stinging pain, relieved temporarily by 
cold. A drop of the tincture applied to the tooth by means of a piece of 
lint sometimes gives relief. 

Staphisagria will often check the decay of the teeth; is useful for tooth- 
ache of a gnawing character, with swelling of the cheek. 

Kreosote is perhaps the most efficacious remedy in relieving toothache 
which arises from decay, and will also, if applied to the tooth, arrest decay. 
It will be found very useful for children when they are getting their teeth, 
and the teeth are slow in coming, irregular, and decaying as soon as they 
come through the gum. 

A superior local application, for the relief of pain, is made as follows, 
and is used by rubbing on the face over the seat of pain a pledget of cotton 

wet in it. 

Tincture of aconite, i y 2 drachms. 

Tincture of opium, I drachm. 

Chloroform, 2 drachms. 

Oil of mustard, 5 drops. 

Mix. 
A mild galvanic current through the affected part, continued for two or 
three minutes, may be used with benefit. 

[Fill the cavity of the aching tooth with cotton saturated with fluid 
extract of Jamaica dogwood, — Hale.] 



92 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

THE GUMS. 

The gums are subject to various disorders, mostly of a sympathetic 
nature, and thus connected with diseases of other parts. Among the varied 
causes is a lack of their proper care, in consequence of a want of knowledge 
of the measures requisite to keep them in health. There may also be a dis- 
eased state of the system which prevents or retards a radical cure, such as 
blood taints, scurvy, or the abuse of mercurial preparations. 

hiflammation of the gums often arises during teething, and is due to a 
feverish or otherwise deranged state of the system. The pernicious habit 
of cutting the gums before the tooth has developed causes this and other 
disorders, without giving relief to the child, or hastening the protrusion of 
the tooth. Inflammation also arises from abscess of the teeth or gums in 
toothache, from canker of the mouth, and from taking cold. 

Scurvy of the gums is caused by a salt-meat diet, lack of vegetables, 
and starvation, being often found in camps, in sailors, and among poverty- 
stricken people. 

Spongy, soft gums, with ragged edges, and loose on the teeth, are pro- 
duced by a collection of tartar, deranged stomach, dosing with mercury, 
want of cleanliness, and decayed teeth. 

Gum- Boils, or abscesses of the gums, arise from taking cold, inflam- 
mation of the gums, extraction and abscess of the teeth. They usuallv 
commence in the sockets of the teeth as a result of inflammation of the 
roots. They are accompanied with great pain, swelling of the gum and 
cheek, and finally burst through the gum, and sometimes externally through 
the cheek. The last issue is to be prevented if possible, as it leaves an un- 
sightly scar, and in children may lead to caries of the jaw. 

Salivation is usually caused by the abuse of mercury, but sometimes 
comes on as the result of taking cold. It also accompanies attacks of fevers 
and disorders of the stomach. It is marked by swelling of the glands in the 
throat, profuse discharge of saliva and inflammation or ulceration of the 
gums; the teeth become loose, and when the disorder is caused by mercury, 
can often be picked out with the fingers. 

Bleeding may occur in any of the above disorders of the gums, but 
especially in scurvy, and is due to a general unhealthy condition of the 
parts, the removal of which will relieve the trouble. 

Treatment. — Since the cure of the various diseases of the gums is 
conditioned upon a healthy state of the stomach, all articles of diet which 
tend to derange that organ should be studiously avoided, and only plain, 
nourishing food be used. In the severer forms of inflammation and ulcera- 
tion, the diet should consist of broths, gruels, milk-and-water, crackers 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION ( J3 

soaked in milk, and like articles. Strict cleanliness and exercise in the open 
air should be secured, with good, nourishing, easily-digested diet as the 
symptoms abate. 

For Inflammation. — Give aconite for inflammation in teething, in 
approaching abscess, and toothache. The general symptoms for its use are 
redness; heat; pain; tenderness to the touch; fever. Arnica is needed for 
inflammation arising from extracting the teeth or other injuries, it being- 
indicated by raw, chafed feeling of the gums, with tenderness. If the in- 
flammation extends to the face, causing great swelling, pain in the head, 
and flushed face, give belladonna. Calcarea carbonica is to be given to 
teething children after the inflammation has subsided, or when the teeth are 
slow about coming through; also as a preventive against recurring attacks. 

For Scurvy. — First remove the cause by a v aiding those articles of 
diet which provoke the trouble, as mentioned above, and substitute milk, 
vegetables and good general diet, with such vegetable acids as vinegar, 
lemon-juice, and lime-juice. Give mercurius when the gums are red, 
spongy, ulcerated, bleeding easily, with looseness of the teeth and a profuse 
flow of saliva and blood. Arsenicum is indicated by dark, livid gums; 
pale, cold, and very dry skin; painful or not sensitive ulcers, which are dark 
and foul-smelling. Hydrastia, which has great efficacy in this disorder, 
can be used with advantage internally, and also on the gums, the latter use 
being designed to correct the foul, ulcerated condition of the mouth, gums 
and tongue. A wash should be made of the fluid hydrastia, twenty drops 
to a teacup two-thirds full of water; and this remedy internally may be al- 
ternated with arsenicum when the latter is specially indicated. If tincture 
of myrrh be applied to the gums, it will improve their soundness and hard- 
ness, and will also cleanse the mouth and relieve pain and inflammation. 

For Spongy Gums. — Get a dentist to remove the collections of tar- 
tar and other substances, then keep the teeth clean by washing them morn- 
ing and evening in cold water with a soft brush. If the gums are tender 
and bleed easily, the tincture of myrrh should be used as directed above. 
Give nux vomica when the disorder arises from deranged digestion, and is 
attended with constipation, foul taste in the morning, and offensive breath. 

For Gum-Boils or Abscesses. — If one of these is threatened, a den- 
tist or surgeon should be consulted, and if pus has formed, it should be 
liberated by lancing the gum at an early stage, so that the surrounding tis- 
sue ma}' not be implicated. Give mercurius in the beginning, if there be 
much swelling, pain, throbbing, and a profuse flow of saliva. Aconite is 
needed, if there is fever; when given early, before pus has formed, it will 
often check the inflammation and prevent the formation of an abscess; 
it may be alternated with mercurius. When an abscess is caused by the 



y-t COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

extraction of a tooth, it usually indicates an injury to the jaw-bone, and 
generally terminates in the expulsion of pieces of the bone; inflammation 
may also set in after an extraction in consequence of the shutting in the 
socket of some foreign matters. In either of these two cases, the gums and 
bone should be examined, so that all offending materials may be removed, 
and abscess and caries be avoided. Silicea is to be administered after an 
abscess has discharged, that the healing may be hastened, and further de- 
cay of the bone be prevented. 

For Salivation. — This is properly a constitutional disorder, but is 
here treated because it manifests itself more particularly in the gums. Give 
potassa chlorate internally if salivation arises from an abuse of mercury. 
A solution of the same may be used as a wash, a few crystals being dis- 
solved in a half-glassful of warm water and applied as a wash for the 
mouth, and gargle for the throat. Give mercurius if the patient is of a 
scrofulous habit, with a disposition to swelling of the glands and decay of 
the teeth; also when the salivation results from a cold. Hepar is also a 
good remedy when the abuse of mercury is the cause; and may be found 
useful after mercurius when the latter is indicated. Use hydrastia as a 
wash to remove the constitutional taint. 

For Bleeding. — This is but a symptom of various disorders of the 
gums, and will usually be corrected when the latter are relieved; but the 
following remedies may be advantageously used when there is a persistent 
tendency to bleeding: Acidum phosphoricum is needed when bleeding is 
excited by the touch, with a raw feeling of the gums; also when the bleed- 
ing occurs in low states of the system, as typhoid fever, small-pox and 
diphtheria. Mercurius is needed if the bleeding gums are swollen and 
painful. When the bleeding is due to a spongy condition of the gums 
brought on by mercury, give china or carbo vegetabilis. 

[Wash the mouth frequently with extract of hamamelis. — Hale.] 

THRUSH. 

This disease consists in minute vesicles or ulcers covering the mem- 
brane which lines the mouth, throat, gums and tongue, extending some- 
times, in severe cases, to the stomach and bowels. These spots resemble 
small particles of curdled milk, and if not promptly relieved, may unite 
and form a complete covering to the membrane. It is the result of a de- 
bilitated state of the system, an insufficient quantity, or unhealthy condi- 
tion of the food, the exhaustion from severe sickness, or the diseases at- 
tendant on old age. In the last case it is unfavorable, and many times is 
followed by serious results. It is confined principally to children, and pro- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 95 

duces fever, pain on swallowing, and sometimes swelling of the glands of 
the neck. 

Treatment. — Cleanliness is of the first importance, and with the ap- 
plication of a solution of borax, four grains to one ounce of water, will 
often be all that is necessary. 

[I have had better success with sulphite of soda, a teaspoonful to a 
quart of water, than with any other wash, in obstinate cases. — Hale.] 

Mercurius. — Offensive breath; excessive drooling; diarrhoea. 

Arsenicum. — When the eruption extends to the stomach and bowels; 
offensive odor and exhausting diarrhoea; cold, clammy feeling of the skin; 
and when the spots have a blue, livid appearance. 

MUMPS. 

The parotid gland, situated just in front of the ear and on the side of 
the face, contributes to the supply of saliva which is mixed with the food 
during mastication. This gland is subject to an inflammation, contagious in 
its character, sometimes extending to both glands; at others, only affecting 
one, and liable to occur on the opposite side later in life. One attack of 
this disease, if affecting both glands, precludes a return. Its course is 
usually attended with slight fever, and generally, especially in warm weather, 
requires no other treatment than warmth and protection from cold or ex- 
posure. Sometimes, when the enlargement is suddenly checked by ex- 
ternal applications or exposure to cold, the inflammation is transferred to 
other parts, and is liable to produce serious results. 

Treatment. — Apply warm fomentations or poultices to the affected 
parts, keeping the parts covered with flannel or cotton batting until the 
swelling disappears. 

Mercurius. — In ordinary cases, especially if the glands in the throat 
are affected. 

Belladonna. — If there be a high degree of redness and fever. The diet 
should be light, and the patient kept warm. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH. 

This consists in sore patches of redness on the membrane lining the 
mouth and tongue, from which an exudation is liable to take place. It is 
due to exposure of badly nourished children to cold, derangement of the 
stomach from measles or other eruptive diseases, or the introduction of hot 
or acid substances into the mouth. 

Treatment. — Potassa chlorate is to be given for foul breath; sore- 
ness and ulceration of the mucous surface of the tongue, palate and cheeks. 



96 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

It may be prepared by dissolving a piece of crystal the size of a pea in a 
gill of water, washing the mouth thoroughly, and, at the same time, swal- 
lowing a small quantity. 

Mercurius. — When there is a great flow of saliva. 

The affection will often be immediately removed if a wash is early ap- 
plied of tannic acid ten grains, in two ounces of water. 

The difficulty usually arises from derangement of the stomach, and 
attention should, therefore, be given to the diet. As a rule, patients should 
be confined for a few days to a diet of milk and soda water, in equal pro- 
portions. As the disease declines, cocoa or chocolate, with animal broths, 
may be given. 

OFFENSIVE BREATH. 

In perfect health, the breath is sweet and agreeable; but when it is 
foul, it is often the occasion of much mortification and trouble. There are 
various causes of offensive breath, the most common being decay of the 
teeth, neglect to clean the mouth after eating, derangement of the stomach, 
scurvy, malignant sore throat, and catarrh. 

Treatment. — Treatment must depend entirely upon the cause of the 
affection. Particular attenticn, however, should be given to cleanliness and 
proper food, with an abundance of exercise in the open air. Animal food 
should be eaten in moderation. The teeth should be cleaned twice a day, 
and an excellent wash for this purpose is made of perfumed carbolic acid, 
ten drops in four ounces of water. 

Carbo vegetabilis. — Putrid odor of the breath from decayed teeth, bad 
condition of the gums, or large doses of mercury. 

Mercurius. — Fetid breath from a sore mouth or thrush. 

Nux vomica and pulsatilla. — If arising from indigestion. 

CANKER OF THE MOUTH. 

This disease usually occurs in children from two to six years old, and 
is the result of tubercular habit or the use of improper and insufficient food. 
It generally begins at the edge of the gums of the front teeth of the lower 
jaw, causing them to become spongy and to separate from the teeth; the 
teeth become loose, as is the case when caused by the use of mercury. If 
unchecked, it spreads along the gums, the jaws become affected, the lips and 
cheeks are involved in intense swelling. 

Treatment. — The treatment, as regards diet and exercise, should be 
the same as recommended for offensive breath. Give a generous allowance 
of strong beef-tea, raw eggs beaten in milk, and when there is a scrofulous 
condition, cod-liver oil. A wash of potassa chlorate or borax will often 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 97 

give great relief, and in mild cases, with the addition of the following med- 
icines, be all that is necessary to effect a cure. If, however, the disease 
does not yield, and the breath is foul and the swelling extensive and painful, 
then medical aid should be summoned. 

Mercurius usually cures cases not caused by abuse of this drug. 

Arsenicum. — Extreme prostration, with extensive breaking down of 
the tissues. 

[A wash of nitric acid, slightly sour, is very efficacious. — Hale.] 

ULCERS ON THE TONGUE. 

Small red spots appear on the tongue and form ulcers which discharge 
pus. There are sometimes fissures or cracks, usually opposite the large 
teeth, and are the result of indigestion, or irritation from the stumps of de- 
cayed teeth. 

Treatment. — Hydrastia, as a wash, is a valuable remedy; the strong 
tincture may be used. 

Carbolic acid or nitric acid, four or five drops in a glass of water, 
may well be used, for rinsing the mouth three or four times a day. 

Mercurius. — When this drug has not caused the trouble. 

Nux vomica. — Indigestion; constipation. 

Hepar.- — If the patient has used mercury, or if mercurius does not relieve. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 

Acute inflammation of the stomach, unless caused by poisoning or some 
irritant, is a rare disease. The symptoms are, burning pain increased by 
pressure; thirst for cold drinks; inability to retain either food or drink; 
great heat and fullness; constant nausea; foul taste; coated tongue; cold- 
ness of the extremities. The most frequent causes are large quantities of 
cold water drunk while the body is heated. Emetics have produced it; 
also mechanical injuries. In the chronic form it usually accompanies dis- 
ease of the liver, heart and kidneys, and the use of alcoholic drinks. 

Treatment. — Arnica. — When resulting from an injury, blow, or fall. 

Arsenicum. — When there are great prostration and burning thirst. 

In acute cases, small pieces of ice, if swallowed, give great relief, and 
often stop the intense nausea and thirst. 

Warm fomentations, or mustard pastes, applied to the stomach, are 
highly recommended. It is advisable, until the stomach can retain food, to 
abstain from its use, or nourish the patient by injections of nutritious fluids. 
The stomach remains feeble, and great care should be taken for some time 
after an attack. 
7 



98 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Inflammation of the stomach is a serious disease, and often requires for 
its proper management the skill of a well-instructed physician, and the first 
duty is to summon that aid. 

[I have seen prompt and surprising benefit in serious cases, after ice 
had been used in vain, from frequently sipping very hot water in small 
quantities. — Hale.] 

SPASM OF THE STOMACH. 

Cramp in the stomach comes on with a gnawing, contracting pain, ex- 
tending to the back, other symptoms being faintness, nausea, and sometimes 
vomiting and cold extremities. It is usually induced by indigestible food or 
the use of alcoholic drinks. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica is useful in more cases than any other 
known remedy, and especially those which arise from indigestion. The 
special indications for its use are pressing pain in the stomach after eating, 
with a sense of fullness, nausea and vomiting; constipation, especially after the 
use of coffee or stimulants. 

Pulsatilla is indicated by the above symptoms and irregular menstrua- 
tion. 

[Bismuth, a few grains in a tablespoonful of water, repeated every 
fifteen minutes until relief comes, is often superior to nux. — Hale.] 

Bryonia is needed when a cold or rheumatism is the cause. 

Those who suffer from this affection should select their food with stu- 
dious care, and avoid the use of alcohol. 

VOMITING OF BLOOD. 

Bleeding from any part of the body is always an occasion for anxiety 
and alarm ; especially when the blood is expelled by the mouth. In order to 
allay apprehension in this matter, we give below a well known table show- 
ing the difference in the symptoms between hemorrhage of the stomach and 
that of the lungs. 



FROM THE STOMACH. 

i. The blood is of a dark color. 

2. The blood is vo?nited. 

3. The blood is often mixed with food and 
is not frothy. 

4. Is preceded by nausea and distress in 
the stomach. 

5. Blood is generally passed with the evac- 
uations from the bowels. 

Hemorrhage of the stomach is the occasion of much less alarm than 



FROM THE LUNGS. 

i. The blood is of a bright red color. 

2. The blood is generally coughed up. 

3. The blood is generally frothy, and mixed 
with spittle. 

4. Is often preceded by pain in the chest 
and hard breathing. 

5. Blood is not found in the stools. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 99 

that of the lungs. The causes of the former are highly irritating stimu- 
lants, bruises, vomiting and retching, ulceration, obstruction in some other 
organs, and also deranged menstruation. When the last is the case, this 
bleeding taking the place of the menstrual flow, the treatment should be 
directed to restoring the normal monthly function. 

Treatment. — When hemorrhage comes on, the patient should be 
treated calmly, placed on his back on a bed or sofa, the clothes be loosed, 
the head raised, and all loud talking or noise be prevented. The room 
should be cool, if possible, with plenty of air, and not crowded with anx- 
ious friends or officious helpers. 

Give the patient small pieces of ice freely, urging him to swallow them. 
The stomach should have complete rest, nothing being taken into it but iced 
water until the trouble has ceased. To prevent exhaustion, in some cases 
food and broths may be taken by injection. Should faintness occur and be 
persistent, iced champagne will prove an excellent restorative, and not be 
likely to produce vomiting. 

Medical aid should be summoned in all cases, the following remedies 
being meanwhile administered as here indicated. 

Aconite. — Flushed face; palpitation; anxiety; quick pulse. 

Hamamelis. — This drug, from its prompt action in hemorrhage from 
the veins, has proved an efficient remedy in the difficulty, and when the 
blood is dark, is usually all that is needed. 

China. — Debility; feeble pulse; cold hands and feet; fainting. 

Arsenicum. — Difficult breathing; palpitation; anguish; burning heat; 
thirst; small and quick pulse. 

Arnica. — When the disorder arises from injury or violent exertion. 

WANT OF APPETITE. 

The symptomatic relations of appetite to disease have been defined in 
another chapter, and a more explicit discussion of its relations to diseases of 
the stomach is presented under dyspepsia. There is also a condition of the 
system wherein the appetite becomes impaired, without special lesion of any 
organ, and it is this class of cases which we have in view, as they come un- 
der the influence of the thousand and one " stomach-bitters " which, under 
this name, include a thousand and one noxious combinations of poor liquors 
and poorer drugs. 

Want of appetite arises from various causes, and is usually an accom- 
paniment of disorders of the bowels and inflammatory diseases. It is very 
often a beneficial condition, as it prevents the digestive organs from being 
burdened with food at a time when they are least capable of making proper 
use of it to nourish the body. It exists in both acute and chronic diseases, 



100 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and when these have disappeared, there is a return of appetite as well as of 
health. We also have loss of appetite as the result of nervous weakness, im- 
proper habits, irregularity in taking food, imperfect mastication or chewing 
of the food, eating in a short time after a hearty meal, drinking a large 
quantity of fluids while eating, heavy suppers before retiring, sleeping after 
dinner, the excessive use of liquors, tobacco, tea and coffee, and constant 
satiety. 

Treatment. — To relieve this troublesome complaint and restore the 
natural tone of the stomach, the patient should correct any of the above 
habits, or others which may be known to cause the trouble; take moderate 
outdoor exercise, never violent before meal time; retire early and rise early; 
use cold water as a drink between meals; drink a glass of hot water before 
breakfast; use plain, well cooked food; avoid all stimulating condiments and 
highly seasoned food. 

Nux vomica will relieve, if there be constipation; dizziness; loss of taste; 
accumulation of water in the mouth; and when the trouble is due to late 
hours, late meals, spirituous liquors, and lack of nervous force. 

Pulsatilla. — If arising from the use of rich, greasy food, pork, or pastry 
made of lard. This remedy is best adapted to cases with bitter risings ; slimy, 
foul taste in the mouth; water brash; salt or sour vomiting; bloating of the 
abdomen, worse in the evening; and is suited to females with light hair. 

Ignatia. — Very little appetite, a small amount of food satisfying, and 
any more than this being swallowed with difficulty ; nervous disorders of the 
stomach; and when the want of appetite is due to powerful emotions. 

[Tincture of columbo, ten drops in a little water a half-hour before 
meals, is excellent in loss of appetite from weakness. — Hale.] 

When the disorder arises from the causes named, stimulants can be of 
no service, whether taken in the food or otherwise, but much harm is often 
done by using appetizers, whatever their kind. 

DYSPEPSIA.— INDIGESTION. 

As we stated in a previous paragraph, the teeth masticate the food, 
grinding it and mixing it with saliva, preparatory to its reception by the 
stomach, when it is again stirred and mixed with the gastric juice. After this 
process, it is passed on to receive other juices, and finally enters the blood 
and is conveyed to the heart, whence it is sent to repair the waste constantly 
going on in the body. This necessitates much labor on the part of the stom- 
ach, requiring sometimes several hours before a supply of food has been 
disposed of. 

Our diversified diet, the use of stimulants, indigestible food, the gratifi- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 101 

cation of taste, compel the stomach to perform unusual and unnecessary 
labor, and tend to derange its functions. As a result, that organ, on which 
so largely depend life and happiness, becomes very often the seat of misery. 

It is not the purpose to give an elaborate description of the different 
forms, but rather a general outline of the most prominent ones, with the best 
methods of preventing the disorder, and of treating it when it has come on. 
The general symptoms are quite well known to all under the common term 
"indigestion," the more conspicuous being impaired appetite; flatulence; 
nausea ; belching of bitter or acid fluids ; furred tongue, often large and flabby 
and showing impressions of the teeth on its sides; foul breath; heart burn; 
pain in the stomach; sensation of weight or fullness after eating, however 
small the amount; depression of spirits; palpitation of the heart; various 
affections of other organs, as constipation and diarrhoea. 

Treatment. — Treatment depends largely on hygienic measures, and 
the strict observance of several fixed rules. The first thing of importance 
is the proper selection of food, and, as a rule, fresh animal food, cooked so as 
to retain all its juices, is received the most kindly, being more easily digested, 
and causing less flatulence, than the use of vegetables. Hard-dried, cured 
meats, ham, tongue and sausages are especially to be avoided; also veal, 
pork, meats that have been cooked more than once, salmon, lobster, crabs, 
salads, cucumbers, raw vegetables, cheese, new baked bread, coffee, and 
particularly any food or drink that occasions distress after eating. 

Stimulants, malt liquors, spirits, or wines, are to be avoided under all 
circumstances, even if their use does give temporary relief. The taking of 
alcoholic preparations is productive of the most serious derangements of 
digestion, and the seeming benefit, whether derived from the extensively 
advertised "bitters," or liquor in its clear state and purest form, is the result 
of deadened sensibility, and the trouble is still going on, growing worse 
each day. 

Fluids should be used moderately, unless the food is taken in that form. 
Cocoa or black tea will be received kindly. Water, against which some 
have a prejudice, is often one of the best means of preventing or curing 
dyspepsia. This should be used with caution, and but a small quantity be 
taken at meals, as it cools the stomach and checks the flow of gastric juice. 
A cup of hot water, taken before meals, increases the gastric juice and aids 
digestion. 

The food should be well masticated; therefore plenty of time should 
be allowed for the meal. To accomplish this part of digestion, the teeth 
should be in good order, and if the natural teeth are decayed or lost, their 
place should be filled by a skillful dentist. 

A cheerful frame of mind and pleasant, but moderate, conversation 



102 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

favor digestion, by increasing the flow of gastric juice. The shop and the 
counting-room should not be thought of at the table; neither should the 
meal be taken immediately after severe mental or physical labor. The 
meals should be regular; in fact, regularity in all the habits of life, such as 
taking food, sleep, and exercise, is important in the prevention and cure of 
dyspepsia. The patient should retire early and rise early, sponge the body 
with cool water, and take moderate open-air exercise daily. 

Koumiss. — This remedy, though properly a food, has some medicinal 
properties as well, and its introduction into use has done much toward 
robbing this disorder of its terrors. It may be made the exclusive 
diet of dyspeptics, and if care is taken not to overload the stomach with 
it in the start, it will be soon taken with relish, and in such quantities 
as to speedily build up the loss in flesh and strength. A full description 
of its use and manner of preparation may be found in the article on 
Consumption. 

Nux vomica takes a leading place among remedies when the symp- 
toms are pain, tenderness and fullness of the stomach after meals; heart- 
burn; hiccough; sour, acid risings; flatulence; vomiting of food and bile; 
sour or bitter taste; drowsiness after eating; headache in the morning, 
with confusion and inability to connect the thoughts; sallow complexion 
and irregular action of the bowels; constipation; piles, with frequent 
urgings to stool. This remedy is especially adapted to persons of dark, 
bilious complexion and sedentary habits, who eat largely and take 
alcoholic drinks. 

Pulsatilla. — Indigestion from rich pastry, fatty food and much secretion 
of mucus; heartburn; acid, bitter or putrid taste ; frequent loose evacua- 
tions from the bowels. Females of mild disposition, light complexion and 
subject to menstrual irregularities, are particularly benefited by this 
remedy. 

Iris versicolor. — Much vomiting and diarrhoea, with frequent attacks 
of sick headache. 

Bryonia. — Burning at pit of stomach, worse on moving; chilliness with 
lameness; aversion to food; constipation. 

Chamomilla. — Sensation of sinking at the stomach; oppression of the 
chest, and pain in the region of the heart; vomiting of food; thirst; shoot- 
ing pain in the temples. [If this fails, try ignatia. — Hale.] 

[Bismuth, subnitrate or oxide, in doses of two to ten grains, taken 
immediately before or after meals, will always relieve the dull, heavy, 
painful pressure which follows the eating of even ordinary food. 

Pepsin is a very valuable aid to the cure of dyspepsia, when there is 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 103 

slow digestion from deficiency of gastric juice. The following prescription 
is invaluable in many cases: 

^ Pepsin, i drachm. 

Dilute muriatic acid, - y 2 " 

Subnitrate of bismuth, - 2 " 
Glycerine, - - ^ ounce. 

Water, - - - - 3^ « 

Mix. — Give a teaspoonful before or after meals. — Hale.] 
HEARTBURN. 

The above term signifies a sensation of acrid heat in the region of the 
stomach, rising up into the throat. It is due to some irritating cause in the 
stomach, as spices, strong stimulants, tea, sharp acids, smoking, or presence 
of bile. It has no connection with trouble in the heart, as its name would 
imply. Hiccough is a frequent accompaniment, which in infants may be 
corrected by a little milk or water. 

Treatment. — Chamomilla is the principal remedy, and, if taken oc- 
casionally, will prevent its return if the special cause is removed. 

Carbo vegetabilis. — Acid or acrid belchings, with flatulence and con- 
stipation. 

Chronic cases will yield to nux vomica, bryonia or pulsatilla. 

In obstinate cases, Krukneburg's prescription is often followed by ad- 
mirable results, namely, "When the patient is hungry, let him eat butter- 
milk, and when thirsty, let him drink buttermilk." 

[Phillips' Milk of Magnesia is the best palliative Known for acid eruc- 
tations and acid changes in the food, even when causing diarrhoea and colic in 
children. A teaspoonful taken an hour or two after meals immediately 
relieves this distressing condition. — Hale.] 

VOMITING.— SICKNESS. 

Vomiting is usually a symptom of some disorder of the digestive or- 
gans, or, through sympathetic irritation, of disease of organs more remote. 
The causes are quite numerous; among the principal ones we have indiges- 
tion ; pregnancy ; disease of the brain, kidneys or uterus ; obstruction of the 
intestinal canal; cancer or ulcer of the stomach; morbid states of the blood; 
eruptive fevers. If the conditions preceding vomiting are relieved by it, 
then it may be considered a favorable symptom; if they are not relieved, 
but are ir creased, or if the vomiting is the result of brain disease, epilepsy, 
and the like, the condition is of an alarming form. 



104 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — The vomiting of pregnancy or hysteria will be fully 
treated in the chapter on those disorders, to which the reader is referred. 

If vomiting results from overloading the stomach, or from the presence 
of irritating substances, it should be encouraged by drinking warm water, 
tickling the throat with a feather, or other means, until the offending ma- 
terial is expelled. 

If organic disease be the cause, that should be treated, remedies being 
meanwhile* given to afford temporary relief. 

One of the best expedients, in connection with any remedy, is small 
pieces of ice on the tongue, or chewed and swallowed. It is very grateful 
to the patient and often allays the agonizing thirst which usually accompan- 
ies this disorder. [Or sipping very hot water. — Hale.] 

Carbolic acid meets most cases, and will often relieve when all other 
means fail. 

Ipecac. — Simple copious vomiting of greenish or blackish fluid; mucous 
vomit; diarrhoea. 

Kreosote. — Chronic persistent vomiting, when not caused by indiges- 
tion; constant retching without vomiting. 

Arsenicum. — Vomiting and purging with great prostration; burning 
in the throat, accompanied with intense thirst; when caused by cancer and 
other malignant diseases of the stomach. 

Iris versicolor. — Bilious vomiting, with headache and diarrhoea. 

The diet should be simple, nourishing, and not irritating. Chicken 
broth is often of great benefit. Beef-tea, soda-water or lime-water and milk 
(in equal proportions), given in small quantities, can be retained and digested. 

COLIC. 

This term is applied to every pain in the abdomen, but it has various 
causes, and requires discrimination in its treatment. It arises from irritating 
substances, bile, indigestible food, acrid or acid substances, cold, passage 
of gall-stones, and constriction of the intestines. 

In simple colic, there will be a severe twitching, griping pain in the 
abdomen, generally near the navel, usually relieved by pressure. The bow- 
els are constipated, and there is constant desire to relieve them, with little 
passing but flatus. There is seldom fever. 

Treatment. — Chamomilla. — For women and children especially; 
pinching, twisting pain, with drawing up of the knees. 

Colocynth. — Extremely acute, cramp-like, cutting pain; tense, hard 
abdomen, with anxiety and restlessness; diarrhoea, with flatulence. 

"Nux vomica. — Spasmodic, flatulent colic, with pressing, burning pain, 
attended with nausea or vomiting, and a constipated condition of the bowels. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 103 

Iris versicolor. — Severe, flatulent colic, with diarrhoea, sometimes 
yields to this remedy when all others fail. 

Warm fomentations should be applied to the abdomen, and if the bow- 
els are constipated, a copious injection of warm water be used at once. 
This alone often gives immediate relief. Care should be taken in the diet, 
and flatulent food, especially vegetables, and all other articles known to 
disagree, should be avoided. Medical aid should be summoned if relief 
does not soon follow the means recommended above. 

CONSTIPATION. 

Constipation is a retarded action of the bowels by which the contents 
become hardened and pressed in the rectum, where they are retained for a 
longer or a shorter time. It is not always a symptom of disease, and the 
practice of using cathartics when the bowels do not move once or twice a 
day is a pernicious one, and always attended with bad results. Purgatives 
during sickness are extremely injurious, and while they afford a temporary 
relief, the irritation of the delicate mucous membrane of the intestinal tract 
is followed by weakness, a chronic catarrh is induced, and the condition 
sought to be removed is aggravated to a large extent. 

The London Lancet, a leading medical journal of Europe, in a promi- 
nent article in October, 1870, after strongly denouncing the prevalent cus- 
tom of indiscriminate purgation, makes the following observations upon 
what cathartics can not accomplish, and the pernicious results in those cases 
in which their use is customary: 

<(i) Purgatives can not eliminate or throw off" morbid foisons. 
They have no power, except for evil, in the eruptive fevers, including typhus 
and enteric (typhoid). 

"(2) They can not remove a clot on or in the brain. Apoplexy is 
known now to depend on degeneration of the blood-vessels, which purga- 
tives might damage, but could not possibly benefit. 

"(3) Purgatives can not overcome a mechanical obstruction of the 
bowels. 

"(4) They are unnecessary in the case of lying-in women. The 
tendency of purgatives is to weaken the patient, lessen the amount of milk, 
and retard the restoration of the parts by disturbance." 

This is good teaching, and, in fact, a constipated condition of the bow- 
els of lying-in women is one of the best indications of progress to health 
and strength. 

Daily evacuations of the bowels, which are usual in early or middle 
life, are often in excess in advanced life, when three or four times a week are 



106 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

sufficient. This fact should be known, as old people often trouble them- 
selves needlessly on this point. 

Constipation is a frequent accompaniment of convalescence, and is nat- 
ure's means of establishing an equilibrium of the secretions, and as strength 
is obtained, the intestines assume a healthy action, while the use of purga- 
tives, by diminishing the strength, retards this action and prevents a speedy 
recovery. 

The symptoms accompanying persistent constipation are headache; 
feverishness; pressure; urging desire to evacuate the bowels without result, 
or complete torpor without desire; depression of the mind; disturbed sleep; 
uneasy breathing; piles and enlarged veins; perhaps vomiting. 

The causes, in most instances, are faulty habits in the patient, the regu- 
lation of which will afford relief. The faults in question are sedentary hab- 
its; smoking tobacco; drinking beer or other alcoholic stimulants, or tea; 
the use of fine flour to the exclusion of the coarse part of the grain; taking 
too dry food and too few vegetables; neglect in attending to the calls 
of nature to relieve the bowels; loss of tone in the mucous lining of the 
bowels from the use of purgatives. It also arises from disease in other 
parts, as the liver, brain or spinal cord. 

Treatment. — In treating this disorder, the first thing necessary is to 
correct all irregular habits, avoid those things which predispose to the dis- 
ease, and select such articles of diet as will tend to a healthy state of the 
bowels. Meals should be regular, animal food be used sparingly, and fruit 
and vegetables freely. Oatmeal gruel with molasses may be taken for 
breakfast. Brown or Graham bread should be taken in preference to white, 
and,if not used exclusively, a little should be eaten at each meal. Water is 
extremely valuable as a beverage, and for external use. Cocoa nibs may be 
substituted with great advantage for coffee and tea. Spirituous liquors, 
highly seasoned food and late suppers should be strictly avoided. 

Friction over the abdomen tends to remove flatulence, and rouse the 
sluggish condition of the bowels. The abdominal compress, or bandage of 
cold water, for strong and young people is an excellent adjunct. This con- 
sists of a bandage sufficiently wide to cover the abdomen, and long enough 
to go around the body, and cover that portion that has been 
wet. Apply on going to bed. Rub the abdomen in cold water and dry 
with a coarse towel, after removing -the bandage in the morning. This com- 
press should not be worn by aged or weakly persons, or bv women during 
the menstrual flow. An indication of its suitability is an agreeable warmth 
which follows in five or ten minutes after the application. If this reaction 
does not take place, and the compress remains cold, it should not be used. 

The bowels, like the stomach, are under the control of nerves of time, 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 107 

and consequently are subject to habit. Therefore, a regular hour each day 
should be fixed upon for their evacuation; by bringing the mind to bear at that 
time, the habit will soon be established and give notice at the time of nat- 
ure's call. The best time is soon after the morning meal. 

In obstinate cases, it may be necessary, until the habit becomes estab- 
lished, to use some mechanical means to assist in removing the contents of 
the bowels. Especially is this the case when the lower bowel has become 
obstructed with matter too large or too hard for its discharge. The best 
means to accomplish this will be the use of about a pint of tepid water 
slowly injected into the bowels; this maybe retained some time, if possible, 
and, if not effectual, may be followed by another of the same character. 
This is far better than a cathartic, and attended by no bad results. Another 
and very effective expedient is the introduction into the bowel, at night on 
retiring, of one or two ounces of sweet cream or olive oil, allowing it to re- 
main till morning. This is especially efficacious in the case of young chil- 
dren. Regulate the quantity according to age. 

Nux vomica stands at the head of all remedies for this disorder. The 
symptoms for its use are habitual constipation, with frequent ineffectual at- 
tempts to stool; nausea; congestive headache; irritability of temper; 
disturbed sleep; also, when this trouble is an accompaniment of indigestion, 
the use of alcohol, tobacco, or coffee, or sedentary habits. 

Bryonia. — Chilliness; throbbing headache; pain in the right side; and 
when there is no inclination to stool. 

Lycopodium. — Rumbling and flatulence; full, distended abdomen; 
heartourn-; water brash; difficult evacuation. This remedy has obtained 
its greatest results in the constipation of infants, and a dose once or twice a 
day usually acts like a charm. 

Plumbum applies to obstinate cases, and, when there is a paralytic con- 
dition of the bowels, there is none better. The symptoms for its use are un- 
successful efforts to evacuate the bowels, with a painful and constricted feel- 
ing about the anus; motions dark, and passed in small balls. 

[Hydrastis (golden seal), five drops of the tincture every morning 
before breakfast, will relieve the most obstinate constipation due to catarrh 
of the intestines. — Hale.] 

Sulphur. — Habitual constipation, with flatulence and piles. 

Opium. — Complete torpor of the bowels; the motions hard and lumpy ; 
headache; drowsiness; feeling of constriction in the lower intestine. This 
remedy is well adapted to aged people. 

Pulsatilla. — Symptoms similar to those of nux vomica, when occurring 
in people of light complexion after using oily food, accompanied with chil- 
liness and a nervous, melancholy state of mind. 



108 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Constipation often results from a lack of the coarser articles of food, 
and there are but few instances in which relief cannot be obtained, with 
the appropriate remedy, by mixing a tablespoonful of wheat bran in a glass 
of cold water and drinking before breakfast. This will not interfere with 
the appetite, and if persisted in, can be used as a means of keeping the 
bowels in a proper condition. Sometimes a pinch of common salt added 
makes it more palatable and effectual. A cup of hot water, or hot milk 
and water, taken on rising, will often effect the same result, and in some cases 
is preferable. 

The various remedies for chronic constipation should be taken only 
once or twice a day, and be persisted in until the difficulty is relieved, or the 
symptoms have changed, requiring some other remedy. 

DIARRHCEA.— PURGING. 

This consists in frequent, excessive fluid evacuations from the bowels, 
arising from some irritation which increases the ordinary action of the in- 
testines, or the secretions from their lining membrane. It usually depends up- 
on defective absorption of the intestines, so that an excess of matter passes 
through them, and less is taken up for the nourishment of the body. There 
are several forms, including irritative diarrhoea, from excessive, stimulating, 
irritating or impure food or drink; congestive or inflammatory diarrhoea, from 
a cold, cold drinks or ices when the body is overheated, checked perspira- 
tion, or suppressed discharges; bilious diarrhoea, or discharges of undigested 
food, from lack of assimilation ; chronic diarrhoea, and summer diarrhoea. 
There are many influences which give rise to the different forms, the chief 
among which are sudden atmospheric changes, indigestible food, raw veg- 
etables, unripe fruit, checked perspiration from exposure to cold, great fa- 
tigue, and sometimes violent emotions, as anger and fright. The causes do 
not affect all alike, some being able to eat articles with impunity which are 
directly productive of diarrhoea in others. 

It is usually attended with nausea; flatulence; griping pain in the bow- 
els, followed by loose discharges which may vary in character, being fluid 
or watery, slimy, bilious or bloody, and of a great variety of colors and 
odor; furred tongue, foul breath and acrid belchings are usually present. 

In summer diarrhoea, or cholerine, the discharges are chiefly bilious; 
there will often be violent pain, cramps in the limbs, great prostration, and 
not unfrequently collapse and death. 

The main cause of diarrhoea, next to the use of indigestible or im- 
proper food, is atmospheric influence, and hence it prevails to such an extent 
during the summer months, while we have excessive heat through the day, 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 109 

with chilly nights and mornings. Bad drainage and the impurities existing 
in our rivers and springs provoke the disorder. Impure water is a very- 
frequent cause, especially when contaminated with decaying animal mat- 
ter, sewerage and sewer gases. 

It often accompanies other diseases, as typhoid and hectic fevers, con- 
sumption, chronic malarial diseases (when it is called colliquative diarrhoea, 
because it appears to melt down the substance of the body). It is often a 
precursor of cholera when that disease prevails, and should command im- 
mediate but calm attention. 

Treatment. — An important point in treatment of diarrhoea is the se- 
lection of a proper diet. Food should be given sparingly, and consist of 
light, non-irritating articles, such as gruel, rice, arrowroot, milk if it does not 
disagree, milk and lime-water, and when there is thirst and fever, it may be 
iced; occasionally soda-water substituted for the lime-water. In prolonged 
or chronic cases, the diet should be more nutritious but restricted to the most 
digestible kinds of food, as mutton, chickens, pigeon, game, and white fish 
not over-cooked. Beef, pork, and veal and all tough portions of meat 
should be avoided. Mucilaginous drinks should be used, as barley-water, 
gum-water, and rice-water. 

Camphor. — In sudden and recent cases, with chilliness; cold creeping 
of the skin; severe pain in the stomach and bowels; cold hands -and face. 
This remedy acts promptly and its greatest effects are experienced in the 
commencement of the disease, when it often gives immediate relief. One 
or two drops may be given on a little sugar, repeated every fifteen or twen- 
ty minutes for three or four times. It should not be continued long. 

Arsenicum. — Diarrhoea with vomiting; heat in the stomach; burning 
sensation attending the discharges; griping pain in the bowels. Its great- 
est results are experienced in cases attended with extreme prostration, 
emaciation, coldness of the extremities, pale and sunken cheeks and 
great thirst. 

Iris versicolor. — English cholera, or summer diarrhoea, bilious evacu- 
ations, vomiting and headache. 

Chamomilla. — For children particularly; bilious diarrhoea, attended 
with much pain, drawing up of the limbs; furred tongue; thirst, and want of 
appetite; irritable temper; during teething. 

Dulcamara. — Diarrhoea from cold or wet, evacuations slimy or bilious, 
worse at night; particularly adapted to cases of this character during the 
summer and autumn. 

Pulsatilla. — When resulting from rich or fatty food; bitter taste in the 
mouth; nausea and belchings of oily, acid matter; mucous diarrhoea, espe- 
cially of children. 



110 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Veratrum album. — Copious, dark, watery evacuations; cramps; great 
thirst; vomiting; coldness of the body; rapid sinking; cholerine. 

Calcarea carbonica. — Chronic diarrhoea, with weakness and emaciation. 
It is especially useful in scrofulous persons. 

[Rhubarb, so much used as a laxative, is one of the best remedies for 
a mushy, sour, griping diarrhoea; two or three drops every two hours. — 
Hale.] 

Rest in the recumbent position in acute cases is desired. The ex- 
tremities should be kept warm, and when there is severe griping pain, 
heated flannel applied to the abdomen is very grateful. People subject 
to this disorder should always wear flannels; also a flannel bandage fit- 
ting the abdomen closely; this sustains the parts, and removes the feeling of 
great weakness which is so common. 

Night air, late hours, mental excitement, and prolonged exertion should 
be avoided. Taking moderate exercise, and shunning all exciting causes in 
food or clothing, will tend to overcome this troublesome complaint. Some- 
times* in the chronic form, a change of climate becomes necessary. 

DYSENTERY. 

This serious disease consists in an inflammation of the mucous membrane 
lining the large intestine, followed by ulceration, attended with griping 
pain, and a sense of contraction in the lower portion of the bowels, and 
causing a constant desire to go to stool. This inclination is entirely inde- 
pendent of the existence of any substance in the bowels, and the effort is rare- 
ly followed by any discharge except mucus and blood. 

The disorder is usually ushered in by a chill, followed "by continued fe- 
ver, which is worse at night. The skin is hot, the face flushed, and the 
pulse quick. There is great thirst, with furred tongue, nausea and vomiting. 

The most troublesome symptom is the bearing-'down, pressing pain 
which causes the frequent urging desire to go to stool. The patient is una- 
ble to pass anything except a little mucus and blood, shreds of fibrin resem- 
bling the coating of the bowels, and sometimes small hardened balls. This 
feeling often extends to the bladder and produces frequent efforts to empty it. 
The straining is often very great, and children, when allowed to remain at 
stool, have brought on protrusion of the bowel; this may also occur to adults, 
when the disease has continued for some time, or if the patient is very weak. 
The hemorrhage is often very profuse and produces extreme prostration 
and danger. 

The causes are varied, but there is little doubt that it arises from a 
specific poison in the blood, which affects the glandular structure of the large 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. Ill 

intestine, and Maclean says he believes this poison is " a malaria generated 
in the soil by the decomposition of organic matter." 

It is infectious, the effluvia from the stools conveying it to others, if they 
use the same vessel, or allow the stool to remain in the room. Exposure to 
cold and damp, sudden changes in temperature, insufficient clothing, a poor 
or irregular diet, and intemperance, are exciting influences. It is therefore 
often epidemic among people reduced by want and privation. 

Treatment. — This malady should at all times be under medical care; 
until such is obtained, the following remedies may be given: 

Aconite. — In the commencement, for high fever; quick, full pulse; 
thirst. It should be given often during the first hours of the disease. 

Belladonna. — Also at an early stage, for sharp, shooting pains; great 
bearing down, and urging to stool; pains coming on and going off sud- 
denly; flushed cheeks; dry tongue; pain in the head; tenderness of the ab- 
domen. 

Mercurius corrosivus. — This remedy is of great value when the dis- 
charges are mostly blood, with severe straining before and after stool ; urine 
scanty and passed with difficulty, with constant pressing desire to void it. 
This remedy may be alternated with belladonna if high fever accompanies 
the above symptoms. 

Colocynth. — After or in alternation with mercurius corrosivus, espe- 
cially if there be colicky pains; abdomen bloated; discharges mucous mixed 
with blood; efforts to vomit, without success. 

Ipecac. — Autumnal dysentery, with nausea and vomiting; discharges 
frothy and foul, and sometimes greenish mucus, and bloody. 

Bryonia. — Pains and desire for stool, aggravated by moving about; 
tongue white; aching of the whole body; intense thirst for large draughts of 
water. 

[Hamamelis is very useful if the passages are composed of much dark- 
colored blood. — Hale.] 

Arsenicum. — A very important remedy in the last stage, or in those 
cases where there is great prostration with tendency to collapse, especially if 
the patient is enfeebled by previous disease. The characteristic symptoms 
for its use are great thirst; cold breath; tongue blue; cold, clammy sweat; ex- 
cessive weakness; anxiety and restlessness; abdomen feels full and bursting 
before stool; after the discharge, burning in the rectum, trembling of the 
limbs and exhaustion. The discharges are putrid and the urine offensive, 
greenish, and passed with pain. 

The care of the patient is of the greatest importance, both in his diet 
and his surroundings. The recumbent position should be maintained, and, 
in severe cases, the bed-pan should be used instead of having him get up, 



112 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

efforts having been made to resist the desire to go to stool as much as pos- 
sible. The excretions should be removed at once from the house and the 
vessel or pan be thoroughly cleansed before using again. The abdomen 
should be protected by flannel cloths, and when there are tenderness and 
much pain, warm fomentations or a poultice of flax-seed, hops, or corn meal 
and salt, should be used. The diet should consist entirely of fluids, with drinks 
of barley-water, arrowroot, soda-water and milk, flax-seed tea, and rice-water. 
These should be given cold and continued until improvement has been 
fairly established, when chicken, beef, and other meat-broths may be taken. 
A return to solid food should not take place until the discharges have be- 
come quite natural, and then be used with great caution. 

[Cool drinks often cause pain. In such cases, hot drinks and large 
hot injections of water, rice-water, or even mutton broth, frequently relieve 
very promptly. — Hale.] 

SIMPLE CHOLERA.— CHOLERA MORBUS. 

There are two diseases called cholera, simple cholera or cholera 
morbus, and Asiatic cholera. The former, the milder and less fatal, has 
several characteristics which distinguish it from the latter. 

Cholera morbus is ushered in bv vomiting and purging, and often 
severe pain in the bowels. The discharges are bilious in their character 
and of a yellowish, brownish or greenish color. This feature distinguishes 
it from malignant cholera, which has the white or rice-water discharges. 
It is often a very serious complaint, and if unchecked, cramps in the stom- 
ach and bowels may set in, followed by collapse and death. This is espe- 
cially the case in people advanced in life and those with constitutions reduced 
by intemperate habits. 

Treatment. — This disease should be under medical care, the 
following remedies being used until such care can be secured. 

Camphor is one of the best remedies in the commencement of an at- 
tack, and is indicated by chills; diarrhoea; spasmodic pains in the bowels. 
It should be given at frequent intervals, and is often sufficient to cure the 
disease in the early stage. 

Colocynth.-— Severe, griping pains, as though a knife were piercing the 
body. 

Veratrum album. — Sudden, violent attacks of vomiting and watery 
diarrhoea, with cramps and collapse. 

Iris versicolor. — Greenish discharge, with colicky pains; nausea. 

Aconite possesses wonderful power during the stage of collapse, and 
has saved many otherwise hopeless cases. The indications are death-like, 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 113 

sunken appearance of the face, with failure of the heart's action. The 
dose is one to five drops of the strong tincture, according to age, given 
every ten to fifteen minutes until circulation is restored. 

Complete rest in the recumbent posture should be secured, with warm 
applications to the abdomen, and the heat of the body be maintained by 
hot bottles and other means. Ice and ice-water may be given freely. The 
diet should be non-irritating. 

CHOLERA INFANTUM. 

Of all the diseases which strike terror to the mother's heart, this is per- 
haps the most appalling. Its progress is so rapid, and its results so fatal, 
that we do not wonder at the dread with which it is viewed. The neces- 
sity for prompt action when far from medical aid impels us to give full 
notes here, with the assurance also that the means recommended are often 
an anchor of safety when others fail; but it is sincerely hoped that no one, 
while following these directions, will delay a moment in securing the best 
physician that can be found. 

Cholera infantum is peculiarly a disease of large cities. While country 
towns and farming communities may suffer from it, they are not attacked 
with that virulence which manifests itself in more thickly populated sec- 
tions. Its chief causes are exposure to extreme heat, foul-air from unclean 
streets, poor food, and nervous irritation in teething. It more often attacks 
children who are fed on artificial food and cow's milk than those who are 
at the mother's breast. It comes on between the fourth and twentieth 
months and its characteristics correspond to those of cholera morbus. Its 
symptoms are severe vomiting; great pain in the bowels; cold extremities; 
purging, and very rapid prostration ; bloating of the abdomen; tongue red 
and dry, or moist, and covered with a thick fur; head hot; eyes sunken, 
dull or glassy, and the lids heavy; the child is restless, moans constantly, 
and turns from side to side; great thirst; feeble pulse; the heart's action 
irregular; the loss of fluids is very rapid, and the kidneys consequently 
cease to secrete the urine. The blood thus becomes poisoned with urea, as 
indicated by delirium; rolling of the head; sharp or plaintive cries; squint- 
ing of the eyes; stupor; convulsions; and death, if not relieved. 

This disease should not be confounded with catarrh of the intestines, 
though often accompanying it, and though children who are affected with 
the latter, and are subjected to the necessary conditions, sometimes contract 
cholera infantum. Intestinal catarrh, or summer complaint, may be dis- 
tinguished by a comparison of its symptoms, given under Diarrhoea, with 
the above. It is strictly an inflammatory disorder, and does not entail that 



114 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



rapid loss of fluids and sudden prostration which accompany cholera infan- 
tum; but the condition of the intestinal canal, and the exhaustion produced 
by it render the patient less able to resist an attack of cholera infantum. 
It is, therefore, imperative that one use all proper precautions in diet and 
medicine to cure any form of diarrhoea that occurs under any of the excit- 
ing causes named above. Those children who are exposed to the conditions 
that cause this fearful malady, whether any or all of them, while suffering 
from diarrhoea, are very apt to be attacked with cholera infantum, and 
usually fall victims to its terrible effects 

Treatment. — Medical aid is always needed, the following treatment 
being given only as a safeguard until such help is obtained. In the treat- 
ment of this disease, as well as in its prevention, the food is an all-important 
consideration; for, unless great care is taken, the predisposition is increased, 
and the prospects of a cure diminished. We wish, therefore, to impress 
upon the attention of the mother and nurse the urgency of watchfulness 
in this particular. The milk from the breast of the mother or wet nurse 
is by far the best, if the one who nurses the child is well. Too much pains 
can not be taken to insure good milk. Mothers, and others who nurse 
children, too often neglect themselves, and, to gratify appetite or taste, use 
such articles of food or drink as are in many cases the direct cause of the 
trouble. Nursing the child when the mother is overheated or under strong - 
mental emotions, as anger or grief, tends to derangements more or less 
serious. Giving the breast too often, so as to stop crying, is also a bad 
practice, for crying is very frequently an evidence of an overloaded stomach, 
and further feeding will be likely to induce more harmful results. 

If the child is using other food than the milk of the mother or nurse, 
much pains are needed in the selection and preparation. Next to the human 
milk we place that of the cow. It should be diluted with hot water and be 
given warm ; to insure good digestion, a little lime-water, or a pinch of 
salt, may be added. Some children can not use milk either in health or 
sickness, and then resort must be had to other articles. There is a variety 
of prepared foods, but, while a large proportion have some merit and are 
beneficial in individual cases, they do not contain the properties that will in- 
sure the universal health and flesh which their manufacturers claim. Bar- 
ley well boiled and strained, meat-broths, gruels and arrowroot will often 
be useful, but in many instances, especially in children who have teeth, solid 
food is a necessity; for the act of chewing effects a due mixing of the 
saliva, and thus favors better digestion, while the juices in the stomach, 
secreted more rapidly in the presence of solid food, produce chemical 
changes which lessen the tendency to this disease. Soft food is not neces- 
sarily most easily digested. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 115 

The reader will do well to read what is said on the diet and feeding of 
infants in another chapter. 

Ipecac is to be given when the disease is ushered in by copious vomit- 
ing; also for discharges from the bowels of undigested food and bile, and 
yellow coating on the tongue. If relief is not afforded, veratrum album 
may be used in alternation with ipecac for copious vomiting; diarrhoea, 
with colorless, mucous discharges; severe, cramp-like pains in the bowels. 
When the disorder commences with the list of symptoms last given, es- 
pecially if the discharges are light-colored, the veratrum should be the first 
remedy given. 

Arsenicum album, rarely indicated in the commencement, is one of the 
main remedies in a later stage, its symptoms being ineffectual efforts to 
vomit; discharges from the bowels more frequent, but decreased in quantity, 
and tinged with blood; difficult breathing; great thirst; pinched appear- 
ance of the features, with indications of collapse; cold, clammy sweat. It 
is especially useful if the discharges assume a gray or black hue, and be- 
come very offensive in odor. 

Chamomilla is needed in the commencement in cases which are 
brought on by nervous irritation from teething or fright, its special indica- 
tions being slight vomiting, with pain and profuse greenish discharges 
from the bowels. This remedy should be given for the looseness of the 
bowels in teething children which precedes cholera infantum. 

Though nux vomica is not a remedy proper for cholera infantum, it 
has sometimes relieved this malady when it has been attended with lassi- 
tude and want of appetite; and it may often be used with very good results 
in toning up the digestive functions, and restoring a healthy state. 

Bromide of camphor has great merit in allaying the nervous irritation 
which precedes or accompanies cholera infantum. It lessens the frequency 
of the discharges, and has sometimes arrested the convulsions which occur 
in some cases with such fatal results. It may be used with advantage, in 
connection with other remedies, to produce sleep and rest, one or two one- 
tenth grain doses being given daily. 

[Bismuth often cures when all other means fail to arrest the disease, 
especially in the acute stage. It should be given in five to ten grain doses 
in a teaspoonful of water every hour. — Hale.] 

ASIATIC CHOLERA. 

No other disease presents as formidable a front in its treatment^ 
or strikes such terror to individuals, nations, or the world, as the one in 
question. Its fatality is so great, and its attack is so soon followed in many 



116 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cases by death, giving little time to obtain relief, that it may well be 
looked upon with dread and dismay. It is a constitutional disease, but the 
local manifestations being exhibited in the digestive tract, it is placed for 
convenience in this connection. The discharges from the bowels do not 
indicate a special local disease of these parts; neither do we find any 
organic disorder of the intestines at all corresponding to the results of the 
disease. In the description of the digestive tract at the commencement of 
this chapter, we find that the intestines are lined with minute projecting 
papillae, called the villi, which are so abundant as to give to the entire sur- 
face a beautiful velvety appearance. These villi have a two-fold function; 
they throw out certain fluids which aid digestion, and also act as absorbents, 
taking up the food to make new blood and repair the system. In cholera, 
these villi have lost their outer covering, so that the surface appears red 
and raw, out of which is thrown a constant and copious supply of serum, 
which forms the peculiar rice-water discharges from the stomach and 
bowels so characteristic of true cholera. This fluid grows thick, dark, and 
ropy; the coats of the intestines, owing to their changed condition, not 
furnishing a new supply, the fluids of the body are drawn upon, and a few 
hours of the disease cause extreme waste and emaciation. In fact, the ob- 
structed capillary circulation, the blueness of the lips, tongue and skin, the 
long-continued cramps which contract the muscles into hard, round knobs, 
all arise from this general drying out of the system. 

The disease is caused by a specific, contagious poison, whose exact 
character is unknown. It is epidemic and spreads over whole countries, its 
mortality being remarkably high. 

Treatment. — Cholera usually commences with diarrhoea, and under 
no circumstances should looseness of the bowels be neglected during the 
prevalence or imminence of a cholera epidemic. 

Camphor should be given at once when diarrhoea comes on, accom- 
panied with nausea, griping pains, and headache, one or two drops being 
administered in a little water every five or ten minutes, and the intervals 
being lengthened as the symptoms abate. A like dose of the same once or 
twice a day is excellent as a preventive during the epidemic. 

Veratrum album is a superior remedy, and should be given very soon 
after the disease commences, if camphor does not afford relief, and if the 
discharges are colorless, the attack coming on with vomiting, diarrhoea, 
great pain and restlessness. 

When this condition so changes as to leave the patient apathetic or in- 
sensible, with cold skin and weak pulse, the remedy is no longer of avail. 
This stage calls for arsenicum, whose indications are sudden and complete 
exhaustion; pulse feeble or lost; violent palpitation of the heart; difficult 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 117 

breathing; intolerable thirst, with an immediate vomiting of all fluids taken 
into the stomach; burning in the stomach and bowels; suppression of the 
urine. 

Cuprum is one of the best preventives and should be given, alone or 
in alternation with camphor, during the prevalence of cholera. It is also a 
very valuable remedy during an attack, and will not only often prevent 
the paralytic stage, but is particularly indicated by that condition. Its 
special indications at this stage of an attack are loss of consciousness; 
twitching of the fingers and toes; gurgling of fluids in the oesophagus, with 
inability to vomit; suppression of the stools; loud gurgling in the bowels 
if they are pressed upon. This remedy may be given in alternation with 
any of the others named, particularly with veratrum album and arsenicum, 
when they seem to be indicated. 

Aconite, when the attack comes on with great prostration and failure 
of the heart's action, should be given to rouse the vital forces. It will also 
be found an efficient remedy in the stage of collapse, the dose being one to 
five drops of the tincture every five to ten minutes until circulation is 
established. 

The same general directions for diet and hygienic measures as are 
given for cholera morbus may here be mentioned, special care being taken 
to remove the discharges of the bowels and stomach at once, and to 
thoroughly disinfect the room. The discharges should not only be taken 
away, but should be promptly buried or burned, since they become more 
infectious after exposure to the air. 

All decaying matters, cess-pools, water-closets, dust-holes, and drains 
should be thoroughly cleansed, and every means be taken to protect the 
body from unpleasant effluvia by a free use of disinfectants. The body 
should be well protected by clothing, care being taken to prevent catching 
cold, never allowing the feet to remain damp. Exercise in the open air 
and cleanliness of person are absolutely necessary among preventive 
measures. 

PILES. 

This disease is the result of enlargement of the veins in the lower por- 
tion of the large intestine. It is usually produced by pressure on the veins 
by collection of fasces in the bowel, which prevents the return of the blood 
to the heart, and causes distension of the veins, inflammation and pain. 
This condition persisting, the vessels gradually enlarge, and their coats grow 
thin, and perhaps burst, producing severe hemorrhage. 

Constipation is the usual cause, but anything which may retard the 
progress of the blood in these veins is capable of producing the disease. 



118 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Sometimes the veins protrude and form a mass of painful tumors on the 
outside of the muscles of the anus. These tumors may vary from the size 
of a pea to that of a walnut, and when the pressure is sufficient, they be- 
come strangulated and present a purple or dark appearance. These condi- 
tions are not continuous, however, and often there will be long intervals in 
which they will not appear, and then give little or no inconvenience. The 
tendency is to repeated attacks, the veins becoming more and more dis- 
tended and the tumors more prominent, until they are continually a source 
of annoyance and trouble. This is due, however, to the predisposing causes, 
which are quite general, as sedentary habits, and the free use of coffee, tea, 
wine, or other liquors. 

Treatment. — The so-called " sure cures " for piles are legion, and 
many have waxed rich on the discovery of great pile remedies, the most of 
which are indeed great in lining the pockets of their inventors with the 
shekels of poor deluded sufferers. We will enumerate but a few medicines, 
advising the patient to consult some reliable physician for treatment in this 
troublesome complaint. 

As a constitutional remedy, sulphur is the best. It should be taken 
once a day for one week, then discontinue a week, and so on every al- 
ternate week. 

Nux vomica. — If from constipation, or the too free use of spirituous 
liquors, and sedentary habits. 

Hamamelis is excellent for bleeding piles, and is to be used both inter- 
nally, in the usual form of administration, and also externally. For the 
external application, put on the affected part two or three folds of linen 
saturated with Pond's Extract of Hamamelis, cover the whole with oil-silk, 
and repeat the application several times a day. 

yEsculus. — Bleeding piles, with much pain in the rectum, and also in 
the back and loins. 

Aconite, if there be much inflammation and fever. 

During an attack, the horizontal position is the best, and should be 
maintained as much as possible. 

Great relief and permanent benefit will be derived from the use of 
injections of about a pint of tepid water into the bowel, before an evacua- 
tion. This softens the faeces, and also contracts the tissues, giving tone to 
the blood-vessels and nerves. When very painful, a sitz-bath, or sitting 
over steam, will give relief. The parts should be kept strictly clean by 
frequent washing with pure castile soap and cold water. 

The abdominal compress is an excellent preventive and will do much 
toward restoring the organs to a healthy condition when the complaint has 
already become seated. To apply it, take a long bandage, wet one end in 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. H ( J 

cold water, and wrap it smoothly around the abdomen several times, in 
such a way that the upper dry folds will neatly cover the wet ones 
beneath. 

Surgical measures should be the last resort, and, while sometimes 
necessary, are not often required after a thorough use of the remedies 
recommended above. 

Various pile salves have gained more or less reputation, among which 
we may mention, as being safe and productive of good, aasculus ce-ate, 
hamamelis cerate, and the Perfect Pile Remedy. They may be obtained 
at any well-appointed drug-store. 

The diet is of great importance in the treatment. Coffee, tea, spices, 
stimulating, highly-seasoned or indigestible food, wine, beer, and spirits in 
general, should be avoided. The best diet consists of light animal food and 
the free use of ripe fruits and vegetables. 

JAUNDICE. 

This is rather a symptom ©f disorder of the liver than a distinct 
disease. It consists in a discoloration of the skin from a yellowish deposit 
beneath it of the coloring matter of the bile. 

It is caused in two ways: First, by obstruction of the secretion of the 
bile in the gland ; second, by some deranged action of the constituents of 
the blood. The former cause is the best known, and is the result of some 
mechanical obstruction to the excretion of the bile, necessitating its re-ab- 
sorption into the blood. The principal predisposing causes are a sedentary 
life, stimulants, strong mental emotions, the use of purgatives, exposure to 
cold and wet, injury to the liver by a blow or fall, clogging of the large 
bowel from constipation, and formation of stones in the gall-bladder. The 
last is usually accompanied with such severe pain, while the stones are 
passing through the gall-duct, that it is readily recognized. 

The symptoms which are noticeable in jaundice are yellow skin; the 
white portion of the eye tinged a yellow-greenish hue; weak pulse; 
languor; bitter taste; constipation; often nausea and vomiting; urine dark- 
brownish or greenish yellow; the discharges from the bowels of a gray-ash 
color and very offensive. 

Treatment. — Aconite. — If there be much fever and thirst; and if 
caused by cold or inflammation of the liver, or by fright. 

Bryonia. — Stitching pain in the liver on pressure ; pain in the limbs, 
worse on motion ; thick white coating on the tongue ; nausea and vomiting. 

Chamomilla. — When occurring in new-born children, or when caused 
by anger, imprudent diet, or taking cold. 



120 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Mercurius is more often indicated than any other. The symptoms 
calling for it are thick, coated, flabby tongue, showing the prints of the 
teeth; bad smell from the mouth; nausea and loathing of food; soreness and 
sense of fullness in the region of the liver; diarrhoea, with mucous dis- 
charges. [Euonymin cures the same symptoms, the dose being one-eighth 
to one-half grain every four hours. — Hale. J 

Nux vomica. — Derangements of the stomach; constipation; the pres- 
ence of gall-stones; headache; dizziness; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting. 
This remedy is especially indicated in cases arising from sedentary habits, 
from the use of alcoholic stimulants, tea and coffee, or from anger. 

Podophyllin. — In complication of gall-stones; great pain in the region 
of the stomach, extending to the liver. [Also chelidonium. — Hale.] 

Arnica. — When jaundice is the result of an injury. 

[Chionanthus is a specific in chronic cases, five drops every two hours. 
— Hale.] 

When this disease is attended with a considerable disturbance of the 
system, medical aid should be consulted, that the cause of the trouble may 
be ascertained. The diet should consist of fruit and vegetables, to the 
exclusion of meat and rich pastry. Efforts should be made to promote free 
action of the skin, and thus eliminate the poisonous bile as much as pos- 
sible. This can be accomplished by the hot bath-pack and brisk friction of 
the surface of the body. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

The liver, like other organs of the body, is subject to inflammation, 
which may be either acute or chronic, and, though it is made the scape-goat 
of most of the disorders of the stomach, under the name of " biliousness," 
which Dio Lewis terms " hoggishness," it is occasionally subject to an 
inflammation or congestion independent of other organs. This inflammation 
is indicated by a dull pain, sometimes sharp and cutting, in the right side, 
extending to the liver, with great tenderness on pressure. The liver seems 
enlarged, and there will be difficult breathing; loss of appetite; cough and 
vomiting; indigestion; yellowish hue of the skin; in the chronic form, 
usually unaccompanied with fever. This affection is quite common in hot 
climates, in consequence of heat, the use of stimulants, and mental 
emotions. 

Treatment. — Aconite should be given in the acute form, when there 
is much fever. 

Belladonna is an excellent remedy for acute pain in the region of the 
liver, made worse by pressure, lying on the right side, coughing or breath- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. l^J 

ing; pain extending toward the shoulder and neck; congestion of the head- 
giddiness; sleeplessness; tense, bloated feeling in the region of the stomach. 

Bryonia. — Stitching and burning pain, worse from motion and contact; 
white coating on the tongue; thirst; constipation; pain in the right shoul- 
der; fullness of the abdomen; yellowish appearance of the face. 

Leptandrin. — Yellowish coated tongue; constant nausea and vomiting; 
dark-colored urine; black mushy stools. 

Mercurius. — Pressing pain and stitches in the liver; inability to lie on 
the right side; yellowish tinge to the skin; perspiration; alternate chills and 
flushes of heat when changing position. 

Phosphorous acid. — When the patient is greatly reduced, with tendency 
to blood-poisoning from abscesses. 

Pulsatilla. — Attacks of anxiety at night; greenish, slimy, diarrhoea; and 
when the cause is sudden suppression of the menses. 

Local applications often give great relief, especially in an early stage; 
the most efficacious of which, when the disease is accompanied with 
severe pain and high fever, is a lotion of aconite, one-half teaspoonful of 
the strong tincture to three or four ounces of water. Cloths wet in this 
should be applied hot, and be covered with oil-silk or several folds of 
flannel. Mustard plasters often afford relief. When the enlargement 
continues, accompanied with severe pain when lying on the left side, a 
plaster of cantharis may be applied, allowing it to remain until it forms a 
blister. The last expedient has, in the author's own experience, prevented 
the formation of abscesses when this result seemed otherwise inevitable. 

GALL-STONES. 

Gall-stones are the result of a secretion or deposit in the gall-bladder 
of substances which are contained in solution in healthy bile. Sometimes 
gall-stones are formed in great numbers, but usually from five or ten to 
thirty. Their size varies from that of a millet seed to that of a hen's egg. 
Their color is also varied: sometimes white; again, all shades, to a deep 
black. 

The presence of gall-stones may not be known for a long time, and 
then only when their passage through the duct leading into the duodenum 
brings on violent symptoms, known under the name of " bilious or gall-stone 
colic." This usually occurs a few hours after eating, when the bile is poured 
into the bowels, or upon lifting heavy weights, or after violent emotion. 
The pain is excruciating, of a boring and burning character, is first felt in 
the right side, and extends to the navel, back to the spine, and upward into 
the chest and shoulder blade; the slightest touch increases the pain; there 



122 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

will be vomiting; great restlessness; sometimes convulsions; the colic con- 
tinues with more or less severity until the stone is passed through the duct, 
when it suddenly ceases. This passage may last only a few hours, or may 
continue several days, with frequent paroxysms of pain. After the pas- 
sage of the gall-stone, if the flow of bile has been obstructed, the eyes and 
skin sometimes take on a jaundiced hue. 

Treatment. — The extreme pain accompanying this disorder usually 
brings it under the care, and properly so, of medical aid; but as such aid is 
not always at hand, the patient should at once be treated with belladonna. 

Baptisia. — Pain in the right side, with great uneasiness; the patient 
obliged to move about, although the pain is increased thereby. 

China. — Periodical attacks of colic; yellow skin; constipation; green- 
ish stools, passed in the form of sheep-dung of different sizes. 

Chelidonium has long been used in the various disorders of the liver, 
and is especially efficacious in this one. It should be given in five to ten 
drop doses three times daily, and if continued some time, will dissolve stones 
already formed, and prevent their re-appearance. 

One of the most efficient remedies, and one which is usually at hand, 
is the ordinary olive or sweet oil. This is not only said to dissolve some 
forms of the gall-stones, but also causes the duct to relax and thus allow the 
stone to pass through the more easily. It should be given, during an attack 
of pain, in doses of one-fourth to one-half pint, and repeated at intervals, if 
the stomach will retain it, until the pain ceases. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

This formidable disease we present for two reasons : First, that the order 
may be complete; and second, to so describe its symptoms that medical aid 
may be at once obtained. It is not a disease which should come within the 
province of domestic treatment, except under great and pressing necessity. 
The suddenness of its attack, the rapidity of its course, the extreme fatality 
under the old system of purgatives, all show the necessity of skilled and 
prompt aid. 

This disease is preceded by chilliness; dry, hot skin; quick pulse; great 
thirst; nausea; sometimes vomiting; pain in the bowels, centering at the 
navel; extreme soreness upon pressure; the patient lies on his back with 
the knees drawn up; the abdomen feels stiff and, after a short time, may be- 
come swollen or drum-Ike. Peritonitis, or inflammation of the lining mem- 
brane of the abdomen, may attend this disorder. The principal causes are 
cold; improper diet; strong drinks; fevers. 

Treatment. — The patient should be placed in bed, in a well-lighted, 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 1^3 

well-ventilated room, and be induced to maintain a recumbent position, 
using the bed-pan instead of sitting up. Applications to the abdomen afford 
great relief, and there is none better than a compress of three or four folds 
of linen, large enough to cover the abdomen, wrung out in cold water, 
spread upon the abdomen, and covered with a bandage of flannel. This is 
much better if the compress is first covered with oil-silk. If there is very- 
severe pain, a hot poultice or flannels, wrung out in hot water, will be 
found very useful. A superior local application is a flax-seed poultice, 
sprinkled over with mustard. Make it so as to cover the abdomen, and 
cover it with oil-silk, putting on the whole some cotton batting. 

If the bowels have been constip ited, or there is evidence of clogging 
of the large bowel with hardened foeces, an injection of warm water should 
be given, great care being used in its administration. The best manner is to 
first gently introduce into the bowel a half-pint of the fluid, requiring the 
patient to retain it half an hour, then follow with another and larger 
amount; usually this will be followed by a free discharge. After the evac- 
uation has become free, the temperature of the injection may be lowered. 
If the discharges become mucous and bloody, starch-water, gum-water or 
flax-seed tea may be used with good results. The drinks should be mostly 
cold, and when the heat and thirst are extreme, pieces of ice may be held 
in the mouth. 

Belladonna is indicated, at an early stage, by sharp, shooting pains 
coming on suddenly and leaving quickly ; great bearing down, and tenderness, 
on pressure over the abdomen. Aconite, also in the early stage, if there is 
great fever. 

Arsenicum. — Severe burning pain around the navel, with obstinate 
vomiting and prostration. 

Mercurius corrosivus. — Often a very efficient remedy when the dis- 
charges are mucous and bloody, accompanied with straining and constant 
urging to stool; abdomen hard and distended; frequent painful desire to 
urinate. 

Veratrum album. — Great thirst; furred tongue; nausea; vomiting; 
great prostration; cold extremities; cramps. 

When the inflammation subsides, beef-tea, milk and soda-water, or any 
easily digested fluid food, may be allowed, care being taken not to return to 
solid food until the patient has fully recovered. 

PERITONITIS. 

Peritonitis is an inflammation of the lining membrane of the abdomen. 
It may be local, affecting a particular portion of the sac, or general, spread- 



124 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ing over the whole abdominal .surface. It is caused by a blow, fall, wound, 
surgical operation, exposure to cold and wet; it may follow inflammation 
in other organs, as the liver, spleen, womb, bladder, and intestines; child- 
bed fever is also one of its causes. Having so many sources, it displays a 
variety of symptoms, of which only those that are common can now be 
given, though they will be sufficient to decide upon the existence of the 
disorder. 

Pain and tenderness are always present, the pain being sharp, tearing, 
and increased by motion or the slightest touch. The patient lies quietly on 
his back, with the feet drawn up, using the muscles of the abdomen as little 
as possible when breathing. Vomiting is a prominent symptom, and when 
the bowels are obstructed, their contents are raised; vomiting does not re- 
lieve, but rather increases the pain by the straining. Other symptoms are 
hiccough; constipation; usually great distension of the abdomen, so that it 
sounds like a drum if one taps upon it; constant and painful desire to urin- 
ate, the urine being hot; intense fever; pulse generally very rapid. When 
the disease progresses in spite of treatment, the pulse gradually grows small 
and flickering, the extremities cold and covered with a clammy sweat, the 
tongue dry and red, the features anxious and drawn, and death soon follows, 
A serous deposit sometimes forms under the membrane involved, and the 
patient then does not fully recover for a long time after the inflammation 
subsides. Prompt and efficient treatment is essential, as the disease is liable 
to rapidly become dangerous. It occasionally terminates in an exudation of 
pus into the abdominal cavity. Its intense soreness and tenderness will 
distinguish it from colic; but a minute comparison of symptoms is requisite 
to avoid mistaking it for inflammation of the bowels. 

Treatment. — Arnica, both internally and externally, is to be given 
when an injury is the cause. 

Aconite, if there be hign fever; hot and dry skin; hard, quick, small 
jDulse; dry mouth and tongue; great thirst; vomiting; cold extremities; 
scanty, red and hot urine; burning, cutting and darting pain in the bowel?; 
abdomen very hot, and tender to the touch. This remedy is especially 
useful when the disorder arises from exposure, a cold, or taking cold drinks 
when the body is heated. 

Belladonna is needed after aconite if the head is suffused with blood, 
the cheeks flushed, the eyes red, and the blood-vessels strongly throbbing; 
constant and painful retching and vomiting, worse from motion and contact; 
great difficulty in breathing. 

Rhus is indicated by great restlessness; constant changing of position, 
though the pain is increased thereby; tongue red at the tip; pressing, cut- 
ting pain in the abdomen. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 125 

Veratrum album, for vomiting and diarrhoea; cool skin; sunken feat- 
ures; small, weak pulse; great thirst; anxiety. 

Arsenicum, in a later stage, for sudden sinking of the strength; ex- 
tremities cold and covered with a clammy sweat; intense thirst, with small 
drinks at a time: persistent vomiting; burning sensation in the bowels; 
symptoms all worse at night. 

Hot fomentations will relieve the pain. Cold applications are some- 
times more agreeable, and may then be used. Bran or linseed-meal poul- 
tices are often productive of good. When the tongue is red and dry, the 
abdomen much distended, the urine scanty and passed with difficulty and 
burning pain, applications of turpentine will be of much value; use it by 
putting one tablespoonful of turpentine in a pint of boiling water, and lay- 
ing on the abdomen cloths wet in this solution. The flax-seed and mustard 
poultice recommended for inflammation of the bowels is also valuable. 

The diet should be very light, consisting of milk, water-gruel, and 
like articles. Water should be taken quite frequently, but in small quanti- 
ties. When the inflammation subsides and convalescence begins, a more 
strengthening diet may be provided, but solid food and meat should not be 
included until the patient has quite recovered. 

WORMS. 

Of the several varieties of parasites which infest the human body, 
there are three kinds which are usually known under the appellation of 
worms. To these many of the disorders of childhood are ascribed, and 
though the best evidence of their presence is their having been seen, this is 
not always considered. Many times a stomach that is weakened by disease' 
or improper food, is still further deranged by nauseous drugs, under the 
name of vermifuge. The patentee grows rich, but the poor child suffers 
from the false impression that all children have a " patent right " on worms. 

The most common of these parasites is the thread or pin worm. They 
usually occupy the lower portion of the large intestine, and may be conveyed 
from one person to another by contact. After the patient is warm in bed, they 
may be seen around the anus, sometimes in masses of considerable size, like 
a ball; they will migrate from the bowel to the vagina, and when attached 
to the folds of the bowel or vagina, produce intense itching and annoyance. 
It is believed, and there is little doubt of its truth, that the larvae are de- 
posited on the outside, where they hatch and then enter the bowel ready to 
propagate again. In addition to the itching, the symptoms of their pres- 
ence are irregular appetite; offensive breath; picking the nose; straining at 
stool; disturbed sleep, and restlessness. 



126 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

These pests are easily removed if care is given to apply the following 
means: Inject into the bowels a solution of salt and water, three or four 
ounces every day for three days, then two or three times a week; wash the 
external parts after each discharge, and anoint well with carbolated cerate, 

The next in frequency of these parasites is the stomach or round worm. 
It measures in length from three to fifteen inches, and in form resembles 
the common earth-worm, though a pale yellow-white in color. It occupies 
the small intestines, but sometimes passes into the stomach, and is vomited 
up, or enters the large bowel and is passed with the contents at stool. The 
chief symptoms of its presence are pain and swelling in the abdomen ; vari- 
able appetite; foul breath; itching of the nose; paleness about the mouth, 
with red cheeks; diarrhoea; restlessness and grinding of the teeth during 
sleep; spasms. They occur in children between the ages of three and ten 
years. Their presence is not always certainly proved by the symptoms 
named, for the latter may arise, even in the absence of worms, from the 
same influences which generate the parasites. The only certain sign, there- 
fore, is their passage from the bowels, or their expulsion from the stomach 
by vomiting. 

The third class, and the most rare, is the tape-worm, which is made 
up of a series of flat links and sections, which vary in size and length from 
an eighth of an inch to one inch in length, and from a mere thread to half 
an inch in width; these sections or joints aggregating from a few feet to 
several yards. The symptoms of its presence are not well marked, and 
many times it is not discovered until some of the sections are found in the 
stool. One symptom, however, which is usually noticeable is an enormous 
appetite, yet with emaciation. This will lead to a careful examination of 
the evacuations, and the discovery of the intruder. There will also be a 
general lassitude, and an itching of the nose and anus. 

Treatment. — The treatment o«f tape-worm is always to be under the 
direction of a skilled physician; nevertheless one may have hope of expel- 
ling it by the following course: — Abstain from food during the day; at 
night, take one and a half ounces of pumpkin seeds in a little milk or 
cream; in the morning, upon rising, an ounce more, followed in two hours 
by from one to two tablespoonfuls of castor oil and a half teaspoonful of 
sulphuric ether, mixed. If the bowels do not move within four or five 
hours, take an injection of warm water, and generally the offender will be 
found in the discharges. 

Worms are usually due to a morbid condition of the digestive function, 
from an unhealthy state of the membrane lining the intestine, causing 
them to secrete in large quantities a slimy mucus, which not only retards 
digestion, but also forms a fitting receptacle for the rapid development of 



MAN THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. 127 

the worms. This should be thoroughly understood, for when the intestinal 
canal is in a healthy condition, worms cannot exist. 

Cina is a valuable remedy, and often removes tne conditions which 
favor the formation of worms. The indications for its use are a boring at 
the nose; dark rings under the eyes; restlessness; crying out in the sleep; 
nausea and vomiting; griping; itching at the nose and anus; convulsions; 
thick, white urine, sometimes passed involuntarily. 

Santonine is efficient, and, in doses of half a grain once a day for three 
or four days, will expel the larger kinds of these parasites. 

China. — Thread-worms with tendency to diarrhoea; pale face; dark 
rings under the eyes. 

Calcarea carbonica. — In weak, delicate children, having a predisposition 
to worms. 

The diet, in all cases of trouble from worms, is of much importance. 
The food should be taken at regular hours only, and should consist of easily 
digested, well cooked articles, with a careful exclusion of cakes, pastry, 
sweetmeats, butter, veal and pork. Raw meats should never be eaten, tor 
in them the eggs from which the worms develop are often taken into the 
system. 

PROTRUSION OF THE RECTUM. 

The protrusion of the lower bowel occurs mostly in children, but may 
be found in later life. Though its causes are varied, it usually arises from 
a debilitated state of the system, and follows protracted attacks of diarrhoea, 
dysentery and piles, as well as anything that will cause a relaxation of the 
muscles about the anus. The portion of the bowel which protrudes is 
often thickened and granular, and sometimes ulcerated from rubbing- the 
thighs and clothing; a film of mucus sometimes forms on its surface. 
When a serous or bloody fluid settles in the tissues, great difficulty is 
experienced in returning the bowel to its place. 

Treatment. — The essential points of the treatment are the removal 
of the cause, and the immediate replacing of the bowel. The protruding 
part should be gently pressed back beyond the muscle which controls the 
opening of the anus, the hand of the operator being previously well oiled, 
whether the patient or another person does it. The patient should lie on 
his back for some time afterward, to insure a complete restoration of the 
rectum to its normal position. 

If the disorder is due to a low state of the system, the body must be 
invigorated by proper diet, bathing in cold water, moderate exercise, and 
general care. If constipation be the cause, regulate the bowels by proper 
food and injections, avoiding cathartics and straining at stool. If diarrhoea 



128 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

be the occasion, treat that, particularly teaching children so affected to 
avoid straining at stool, and giving them an injection of cold water before 
the discharge. 

Podophyllin is a superior remedy, and few cases fail to yield to it 
readily and permanently, if the measures mentioned are observed for prop- 
erly returning the bowel. 

Ignatia should be given to infants who have itching and straining at 
stool, with frequent ineffectual urging to evacuate the bowels. 

Xux vomica is to be used when the disorder arises from constipation 
and straining at stool. 

External and internal anointing with the Perfect Pile Cure will aid 
very much in the treatment of this troublesome disorder. It contracts the 
coats of the bowelj lessens the inflammation, and gives tone and strength to 
the parts. 

The diet should be plain and nourishing, including such articles as 
favor the normal action and condition of the bowels. 

It is best by far to put chronic cases under the care of a skillful physi- 
cian, for it is sometimes necessary to resort to mechanical means to retain 
the bowel in position after it has been returne.i. 




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CHAPTER V. 
THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 



ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

WISPHE circulation of the blood is the most active and most evident 

||M|4 manifestation of life, as it is one of the most wonderful. Indeed, the 

/||f blood in motion we are accustomed to speak of as life itself, since we 

^P know that death speedily ensues upon the cessation of its circulation. 

Again, it is often remarked that the body grows by the food which is 




26. The Heart and Blood -Vessels. 



A.— Right Ventricle. 
C— Right Auricle. 
E. — Aorta. 



B.— Left Ventricle. 
D.— Left Auricle. 
F. — Artery to the Lungs. 




27. Chambers of the Heart. 

A.— Right Ventricle. 

B.— Left Ventricle. 

C— Right Auricle. 

D.— Lef t Auricle. 

E, F.— Openings into the Ventricles. 

G.— Artery to the Lungs. 

H.— Aorta. 



taken into the stomach; but by reference to the description of the exceed- 
ingly interesting process of digestion, as given in the anatomy and physiol- 
9 129 



130 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH, 




28L Section of the Right Auricle and Ventricle. 

The Valve leading into the Ventricle is open; that 
leading to the Artery is closed. 



ogv of Chapter IV, we learn that these organs onlv prepare the nutriment, 
and then discharge it into the blood for distribution. It is now in order to 
describe those organs, with their 
functions, which receive this nutri- 
ment and use it in building the 
body. 

THE HEART. 

The heart, the busy little en- 
gine of life within us, is conical 

in form, and lies between the two 

lungs, obliquely across the chest. 

The point, or apex, comes out to 

the wall of the chest under the 

nipple of the left breast. The 

upper part, or base of the cone, 

passes upward and backward 

toward the right shoulder, and is 

securely fastened to the walls of 

the chest, while the lower part i< 

left to vibrate freely. 

Around the whole heart is a peculiar sac, consisting of two lavers, 

between which the walls are ex- 
ceedingly smooth and lubricated 
by a secretion of their own. This 
sac is called the pericardium. 

Internally, the heart has two 
parts, with a wall between them 
which completely cuts off direct 
connection, there being no pas- 
sage from one side to the other 
except through the arteries, cap- 
illaries and veins described below. 
An accompanying illustration 
shows that there are four cavities, 
two auricles above, and two ven- 
tricles below. Between the 
auricle and ventricle on either side 
is a valve which permits the 
blood to pass downward, but not 
upward. A peculiarity of these 

cavities is their power of forcibly contracting and so driving out their con- 
tents, as noticed further on. 




Section of the Right Auricle and Ventricle. 

The Valve leading into the Ventricle is closed : that 
leading- to the Artery is open. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 



181 



ARTERIES. 

From the left ventricle a large tube, called the aorta, leads away from 
the heart, soon divides and afterward subdivides many times, until it passes 
to all parts of the body. This, with its branches, carries the blood to all or- 
gans and tissues. From the right 
ventricle another such tube carries 
the blood to the lungs. These tubes 
and their branches are called arteries, 
and carry the blood from the heart. 
They have very thick, firm and 
elastic walls, and are located deep 
beneath the skin. 

CAPILLARIES. 

The v arteries terminate in the 
capillaries, very minute tubes that 
form a delicate network, in which 
the blood flows back and forth, and 
supplies nourishment to the tissues. 
An idea of the intricate nature of 
these fine capillaries may be gained 
from an illustration on the next page. 

VEINS. 

The veins, which collect the 
blood from the capillaries and carry 
it back to the heart, are of two 
classes, one leading from the tissues 
of the general body, the other from 
the lungs only. They have thick 
walls, as the arteries have, but not 
so firm and elastic. At their begin- 
ning, that is, remote from the heart, 
they are very small and numerous, 
but they unite at many places into 
larger tubes, until but two pour blood 
into the heart from the general 
circulation, and but four from the lungs. Unlike the arteries, they are 
near the surface of the body. They also have valves at different points 
which permit the blood to pass on toward the heart, but not in the opposite 
direction. 




30. — Arteries of the Body. 

A.— Heart. B, C, D.— Aorta, or largest Artery. 
F.— Subclavian Artery. G.— Carotid Artery. 



132 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



CIRCULATION DESCRIBED. 

The offices of these several organs will be better understood if the act 
of circulation is followed. 

Suppose, for example, that the right auricle of the heart is full of 
blood. Bv involuntary muscular action this auricle contracts, and the 
blood is forced into the right ventricle through the valve. The ventricle 
now contracts, the valve just named closing, and the blood is sent through the 
pulmonarv artery into the blood-vessels of the lungs. It now makes its 
wav through a network of capillaries in the minute air-cells, described in de- 
tail in the anatomy and physiology of Chapter VI. Here it throws off its im- 
purities, such as worn-out tissues and carbonic acid gas, and takes in life-giving 
oxvgen. Through the rootlets of the pulmonary veins it is taken up from 
the air-cells and is poured into the left auricle as pure blood. Contraction 





31. Capillaries of a Frog's Foot. 
The first is slightly magnified ; the second highly. 



in the left auricle and ventricle takes place as in the right, but the blood is 
driven out through the aorta, the great highway from the heart to the gen- 
eral circulation; the different organs being supplied through their own 
arteries which branch off from this. In the capillaries, at the extremities of 
the arteries, the blood deposits the nutriment which it has taken for the re- 
pair of the tissues from the organs of digestion, each organ selecting its ap- 
propriate elements, and discharging the broken-down tissues. The blood 
is now taken up by the veins and carried back to the right auricle of the 
heart, where our observations on it began, ready for another circuit. The 
valves in the veins prevent the blood from rushing back into them when 
this auricle contracts. 

The blood starts from the heart with a sudden impulse, and so continues 
through the arteries, while its passage through the capillaries and veins is 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 



133 



gentle and constant. If an artery be severed, the blood will come out in 
regular spurts with an almost complete stoppage between them ; the flow 
from a severed vein, on the contrary, is continuous, and that from the capil- 
laries trickles or drops. As death from bleeding will more speedily follow 
an injury to the arteries than to the veins, the former are better protected 
from harm by their remoteness from the surface. 




32. The Cycle of the Circulation. 



1. Right Auricle. 

2. Right Ventricle. 

3. 4, 5. Pulmonary Artery. 

6. Capillaries in Lungs. 

7, 8. Pulmonary Veins. 
9. Left Auricle. 

10. Left Ventricle. 

11. Aorta. 



12, 13. Branches of Aorta. 

14. 14.— Represent Capillaries of the Body. 

15. Vena Cava descending. 

16. Vena Cava ascending. 

17. Tricuspid Valve. 

18. Semilunar Valves. 

19. Mitral Valve. 

20. Semilunar Valves. 



Again, the blood that escapes from an artery, being directly from the 
lungs through the heart, is pure and of a bright-red color; while that from 
a vein, being charged with the worn-out tissue and carbonic acid gas, is 
dark and impure. 

THE PULSE. 

The remarkable functions of the blood give its circulation a foremost 



134 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



rank in the physical economy. It is the great architect of the body, ever 
sensible of its wants, and ever ready, in a state of health, to repair any waste. 
Hence the apt words, " The blood is the body in a fluid state." 

Since the circulation extends to all parts of the body, it generally feels 
a disorder in any organ or tissue. The consequent disturbance will be no- 
ticed by the state of the pulse, since this is but the impulse of the artery 
where it comes near the surface. Any irregularity here is an evidence of a 
disorder in some part of the body. It is therefore important that one 
make himself familiar with the means of testing the pulse, distinguishing 
its characteristics as given in Chapter II. 

LYMPHATIC CIRCULATION. 

In the anatomy and physiology of 
Chapter IV., mention was made of a 
class of vessels, called lacteals, that 
absorb and carry to the circulation some 
elements of the food which are not taken 
up by the blood-vessels of the stomach 
and intestines. A somewhat similar 
function is performed by a class of 
capillaries in nearly all parts of the body, 
which run by the side of and are inter- 
twined with the blood-capillaries. They 
gather up a thin, colorless liquid, called 
lvmph, which they convey to the circu- 
lation, the larorer number converg-ins: in 
a vessel about as large as a goose-quill, 
which passes up the chest and empties 
into the large veins of the neck, thus 
reaching the circulation. These two 
classes of vessels constitute the lymphatic circulation, and are mentioned 
in this connection because their office so nearly resembles in nature that of 
the blood-vessels, and because it is plausibly supposed that they are designed 
to gather up the refuse of the latter, or such parts as escape their absorbing 
powers. They do not however, contain blood, in a proper use of the term. 
The lymph undergoes some change in these vessels, not well understood, 
before it is discharged into the circulation. 

The lymphatics effect the absorption of the skin mentioned in a later 
chapter, as well as that of the lungs, by either of which poisons from disease 
or other sources are readily taken into the system. They also, during the 
healing of a wound, distribute to the body the surplus material which 




33. Lacteals. 

B.— Lacteals. C— Thoracic Duct. 

D.— Absorbents. E.— Blood -Vessel. 

A. — Small Intestine. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 



l; 



accumulates in a wound when it is first made; and a like balancing is 
effected when the body is deprived of food by sickness or other cause, the 
lymphatics taking up the fat and conveying it to the parts which more 
urgently need it. Because of this process it has been truthfully said that, 
in the rapid loss of the flesh by people who are sick or in a famine, and by 




34. Lymphatics. 



animals which spend the whole winter in their dens without food, the body 
lives on its own flesh. 

In their course the lymphatics pass through numerous enlargements, 
from the size of a pin-head to that of an almond, which are known as lym- 
phatic glands. In consequence of colds and other disorders, these glands 
become inflamed, swollen and clogged, thus entailing inconvenience and pain, 
if not very serious results. 



136 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

THE CARE OF THE HEART. 

The importance of the heart in the economy of the physical organism, 
of whicn a hint has been given in the pages immediately preceding, and 
the belief that the public should know more about its functions, with 
the means of preventing or modifying the dangers to which it is exposed, 
make a sufficient reason for devoting a considerable space to the care of 
this organ. The remarkable inderlniteness with which the term " nervous- 
ness " is used, has already been noted, and a like remark applies to " heart- 
disease." Nearly all people have at times some fancied affection of the 
heart, though they are generally troubled only with a disturbance which is 
a symptom of another disease. The dread of " heart-disease " in the pub- 
lic mind will be measurably relieved by a reading of what is here to be 
said, and many anxious patients will find the means of curing themselves. 

What is offered upon this topic is chiefly condensed from the little 
work entitled " The Heart and How to Take Care of It," by the editor-in- 
chief. A grateful acknowledgment is made of the generous courtesy 
manifested by the publishers, the A. L. Chatterton Publishing Company, 
of New York, in permitting such use of the same. The reader is respect- 
fully referred to that work for a fuller consideration of the subject. 

LOCATION AND STRUCTURE. 

Every one supposes that he, of course, knows just where the heart is 
located; but the great majority of readers will be surprised, upon carefully 
noting the location as given under the anatomy and physiology of this 
chapter, to find that it is not so low as they had supposed, nor lving so 
much on the left side. It is a laughable fact that actors and actresses, who 
are supposed to be technically exact in all the details of their parts, in re- 
ferring to the heart oftener place the hand on the pit of the stomach than 
over the organ which they are in the act of apostrophizing. 

It is presumed that the reader has already studied the structure of the 
heart and its functions, as given in the first pages of this chapter. He has 
there gained a sufficient knowledge of this organ as the central figure in 
the circulation, and it only remains to speak briefly of its muscular structure 
and nervous organism. 

The heart consists of seven layers of muscular fibers; the central fibers 
of the muscular wall are circular, and go around the heart, while the fibers 
toward both outer and inner surfaces pass rather from base to apex, t-juisting 
spirally in their course. The outer and inner fibers continue into or con- 
nect with each other. Thus the heart may be described as a coiled spring 
of muscular fiber. Some of the great anatomists have unwound these 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. L37 

fibers, and they are found to be very complex in their connections, but all, 
except the central fibers, pass obliquely around the heart, and nearly repre- 
sent the figure 8, only not as simple. 

The nervous supply of the heart is even more wonderful than its mus- 
cular structure. It is so exquisitely elaborate that no attempt at an explana- 
tion will here be made. Suffice it to say that the nervous life of the heart 
itself is stored up in minute ganglia found in the substance of its muscular 
walls. It may thus be said to have a life of its own, and the fact that it will 
go on beating after it is taken out of the body illustrates this idea. In some 
of the lower animals, the reptiles, it will throb and beat for hours after it 
is separated from the body. Not only will the whole heart continue to 
beat when removed from the body, but even small and isolated portions 
will contract and relax with great regularity. Cut the heart lengthwise 
into two halves, and each half will continue beating. Cut it across through 
both auricles and ventricles, and both sections will beat as before. Take out 
ever so small a piece of it, and if it contains one of the little nervous knots 
called ganglia, it will beat as if it were the whole heart itself. 

Besides the general nervous life which the heart receives through the 
great sympathetic from the brain and spinal cord, it is governed by three 
wonderful sets of nerves, which are named as follows : ( I ) The accelerators, 
which have power to increase and keep up the action of the heart; (2) the 
retardators, which have an influence to slow its action; and (3) the regu- 
lators, or inhibitory nerves, which keep the pulsations in order, and govern 
its rhythmical motions. If it were possible to expose these nerves in a living 
person, as has been done in animals, we could illustrate their influence: Thus, if 
we were to cut the accelerators, the heart would be under the opposing nerves, 
the retardators, and consequently its beats w T ould become very slow and 
sluggish. On the contrary, should we sever the retardators, the heart, left 
to the influence of the accelerators and its own nervous life, would beat 
more and more rapidly. But should we sever the regulators, we would 
find the regular rhythm of the heart, and possibly its regular force, so mod- 
ified that it would intermit in its action, or " wobble" in its motion, unless 
regulated by its own internal ganglia. 

THE HEART'S REST. 

It was until lately the professional, and is still the popular, belief that 
the heart never rests. On the contrary, it is now known that it not only 
rests but sleeps. It is true that in its incessant round of labor no long 
repose is compatible with the continuance of the existence of the organism. 
It not only rests and sleeps, but the amount of sleep is not small. It is 
estimated by Marey, the great French investigator, that four-fifths of its 



138 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH.* 

life is devoted to rest, sleep and feeding. The heart, then, sleeps no less 
than 19 out of 24 hours; but it is not meant that this period is one of abso- 
lute inactivity, or immobility. Again, any increase in the rapidity of the 
pulse tends to exhaust the heart by diminishing not only its sleep, but 
equally its time for nutrition. The important bearings of this fact will be 
explained further on. 

POWER OF THE HEART. 

A wonderful and very interesting thing about the heart is its im- 
mense physical power. Every time it pumps blood into the arteries it 
exerts a force estimated at thirteen pounds. The usual force constantly 
exerted by the healthy human heart would sustain a column of blood 71^ 
feet high, the weight of which would be about 41b. 6 oz. Imagine if vou 
can an organ exerting this immense force hour after hour, dav after day, 
year after year, and then try to estimate the aggregate power of the heart 
during the life of a man. 

It must be considered also that the average physical power may be 
greatly increased by various causes. Unusual exertion, like lifting, running, 
climbing, may increase, temporarily, the amount of propelling force exerted 
bv the heart; hence from over-exertion we may get apoplexv, bleeding 
from the lungs, and other hemorrhages, because of the unusual force with 
which the blood is propelled into the blood-vessels, causing them to burst. 
In violent, inflammatory fever, the blood-pressure may be so increased that the 
pulse throbs under the finger like the vibrations of an iron wire, and severe 
congestions often threaten or destroy life. Certain poisonous drugs possess 
the power of increasing enormously the propelling power of the heart, 
either directly or indirectly. In taking care of it, these facts ought to be 
remembered in order that we may avoid those causes which tend to excite 
it to unnatural action. 

WHEN IS THE HEART HEALTHY? 

The broad, general answer to this question is, When you are not con- 
scious that you have a heart ! It is an axiom in pathology that as soon as 
you are conscious of the existence of any internal organ, it is diseased. 
Now this is very nearly true, so true chat it may be made a rule of guidance 
in many cases. 

There are other signs by which you may know that you have a health v 
heart. The pzdse is a pretty good guide. If the pulse of an average 
healthy adult ranges between 70 and 80 beats per minute, and is full and 
regular, it indicates that the heart is at least not much disordered. The 
pulse-rate varies with the age. In a child at birth it numbers 120 or more. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 139 

The average pulse the first year of life is 104; from 2 to 5 years, 95; be- 
tween the ages of 6 and 9 it is 80; after this age, 72 to 76, the same as the 
natural pulse of adults. The pulse of girls and women exceeds in number 
that of boys and men, by as many as five beats per minute. As a rule, any 
great variation in regularity, any intermittency, indicates some derange- 
ment of the heart, while variations from a healthy standard in rate and 
size indicate general or local derangement, not necessarily of the heart. 

Sensations in the heart, such as throbbing, fluttering, soreness, pains of 
any kind, indicate that all is not right in that organ. But I must warn you 
that, because of the general lack of knowledge relative to the location of 
the heart, to which reference has been made, pains and other sensations 
usually referred to the heart are not in that organ. It will also be almost 
impossible for you to locate with any certainty abnormal pains and sensations 
in the heart, but you can more accurately judge from its action, for in palpi- 
tation, irregular action, and intermittency the sensation is very generally in 
this organ itself. It often requires the most careful investigation of the 
physician to decide whether certain pains are in the heart, or in the muscles 
which envelop the chest. 

In a state of health, i. e., with a healthy heart, no change of position, 
or ordinary exertion, causes any unnatural action of, or pains in this organ. 
Therefore, if lying on the side, especially the left, causes any unpleasant 
sensations or actions of the heart, it is an indication of some derangement of it. 
If stooping, lifting, going up stairs, walking fast or running, makes you 
acutely conscious that you have a heart, there is something wrong. I would 
not have you mistake this kind of action for the healthy, strong, rapid beating 
which comes after unusual exertions. The latter soon subsides, leaving 
you as unconscious of the heart's existence as you were before, while the 
former, by its constant recurrence, keeps you reminded of its presence, and 
that it is a source of annoyance. Nor should you get the idea fixed in your 
mind that because your heart acts unnaturally and is the seat of unpleasant 
sensations, that you have heart-disease. Only a small proportion of those who 
complain of their hearts have any disorder of that organ from disease orig- 
inating in it. A vast majority of heart-derangements are caused by disor- 
ders of other organs. You ask why this can be. It is commonly called 
irritation from sympathy, which means that a~disordered liver or stomach 
may cause more or less deranged action in the heart, because the irritation 
of those organs is reflected back to the great chain of nerves called the sym- 
pathetic or reflex nervous system, and is carried by them to the heart. 
This kind of irritation is known to physicians as " reflex irritation," and 
may proceed from, or originate in, organs very remote from the heart. 
Nevertheless, you should heed these reflex irritations, for they warn you 



140 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

that the health of other organs is impaired, and should be attended to, for 
even if the cardiac irritation is purely reflex, if it continues a long time it 
will result in a disorder of the heart itself, and remain fixed there. 

HOW CAN WE TAKE CARE OF THE HEART? 

To this broad question the general answer may be, by avoiding 
all those influences which tend to derange its action, or cause disease to 
fix itself thereupon. And right here I must warn you against going 
to the extreme of solicitude. It is neither prudent nor safe to watch 
the heart with too much constancy. I have known many cases of supposed 
heart-disorder to be caused by watching the heart's action and the pulse, or 
rather from watching for evidences of heart-disorder where none existed. 
Many persons become monomaniacs on this subject, and annoy their medical 
attendants very much by insisting that they have some affection of the 
heart, and doubt persistently the assertions of the physician after careful 
examinations that no actual disorder of that organ exists. Sometimes it is 
utterly useless for us to assure and reassure such patients. The best method 
I have ever adopted in such cases is to direct their attention to other organs 
as the source of complaint. 

INFLUENCE OF THE WILL AND IMAGINATION. 

We should keep well in mind the fact that, although the heart is made 
of involuntary muscular fibers, which are supposed to act independently of 
the will, it receives its supply of nerve-force from nerves which originate 
in the brain. We know, too, that mental emotions directly affect the heart, 
which they must do through these nerves. Why should not the brain, act- 
ing to enforce will, send its mandates to the heart? Some remarkable 
cases are on record to show that such may be the case. Physicians know 
that the action of the heart may be quickened by the mere centering of the 
consciousness upon it, without any emotion or anxietv. We all observe 
that when we begin to feel the pulse, it is always hurried if the patient fixes 
his consciousness on the act. In making examinations of healthy men for 
life insurance, I have often observed that the healthiest hearts will beat hur- 
riedly and unnaturally, because the candidate was conscious that I was 
listening for disease. It is related of a gentleman, resident of Baltimore, a 
Col. Townsend, that, by an effort of the will, he could at any time cause 
an apparent cessation of all the vital functions, so that the hearfs actio?i 
could not be perceived, nor any respiratory movements be observed. It is 
possible that we possess some will-power on the heart, and that this influ- 
ence might be increased by cultivation. I can imagine cases where it could 
be exercised with benefit. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCl'L ATION. 1 4J 

We can therefore avoid derangement of the heart's action by regulating 
our mental and physical life. There is a hygiene of the heart, as well as a 
hygiene of the brain. If we know what influences to avoid, we can pre- 
vent many troublesome and serious cardiac disorders. 

INFLUENCE OF THE EMOTIONS. 

As any one may easily see, the influence of the emotions upon the 
heart is direct and indisputable. If they are not intense, and the heart is 
healthy, no bad results ensue; but if they are sudden, powerful and over- 
whelming, the heart may be injured beyond recovery. Such emotions and 
passions as fear, fright, terror, rage, anger, joy, care and anxiety, may all 
act in either of two ways: — 

( i) By stimulating or exciting the heart's action through the brain, act- 
ing on the accelerator cardiac nerves. Who that has been under the influence 
of these emotions has not felt his heart throb and palpitate, and send unwonted 
currents of blood to the face until the temples beat and the cheeks flushed? 
This is more especially the effect of the pleasanter emotions, such as joy, 
expectation and love. 

(2) All these passions, when abnormal or intense, may have a pro- 
founder effect. There may be no stage of excitement or one that is very 
transient, and in its place comes a dangerous depression of the heart's life. 
In such cases the heart seems to stop, or hesitate, or give great heaving 
surges, and the face becomes pale, the extremities cold, the pulse grows weak 
and finally disappears, and fainting supervenes. Now, fainting is a suspen- 
sion of the heart's action. It is the step nearest death; only a mere line 
divides the two conditions. 

The heart may be paralyzed in two ways — by over-distension and 
nerve-lesions. In the former, the blood rushes to the heart in such over- 
whelming quantities that its cavities are distended so greatly that they can- 
not contract; then comes paralysis or rupture. In the latter, the morbid 
influence sent from the brain to the heart has the same effect as if a power- 
ful galvanic current were sent through them; they become paralyzed, and 
the heart does not receive its usual motor power. In this way, fear has 
killed many, and I have reason to believe that the influence of fear on 
little children has often resulted in chronic heart-derangements. Mothers, 
and fathers too, should be careful how they punish their children by acting 
on their fears. They may entail upon them life-long misery, without in 
the least improving their moral condition. Great fear and terror in adults may 
be attended with the most serious results. The most observable symptoms are 
general trembling, coldness of the extremities, cold, pale face, with sweat all 
over the body. If no fatal results follow, a repeated seizure of great fear, or 



142 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

even a single one, frequently results in permanent weakness of the inhibitory 
ox restraining nerves of the heart, and the victim becomes the subject of an 
irritable heart. Every physician meets with these cases. 

The effects of fear cannot always be guarded against. The tendency 
to be frightened or affected by terror is often inherited, often constitutional, 
and often acquired during childhood, the result of inhuman treatment. 
Such subjects can no more prevent attacks of terror, even from apparently 
inadequate causes, than some persons with peculiar delicacy of constitution 
can avoid " taking cold." But it is worth while for all to cultivate 
coolness of temperament, and a certain degree of stoicism. We have more 
control over ourselves in this respect than we are aware. 

Numerous interesting cases are on record, which show the profound 
effect of fear on the heart's action. There is a well-authenticated case in 
which a man was pricked by a pin while blindfolded ; warm water was 
poured down his arm, and trickled off his fingers. He died from the effects 
of fear and expected death, for he had been told he was to be bled to death. 
During epidemics of cholera, fear is a prominent factor in the fatality and 
frequency of the disease. Some minds are so organized that the near pres- 
ence of a dangerous disease so depresses the vitality of the organism that 
neither the mind nor the body can resist its onset. If seized with the disease, 
they are pretty sure to die. Man}' die from fear who have not any disease. 

We know of examples in which fear prevents fainting so long as it 
operates, but immediately it is withdrawn, the system yields to the reaction, 
and fainting occurs. Delicate women have stood for hours assisting in some 
severe surgical operation, or supporting a loved one in the agonies of suffer- 
ing, but who, when the scene was all over, have fainted dead away and 
been restored with difficulty. In these instances, the effort of the will keeps 
up the tone of the nerves which go from the brain to the heart, until the 
time of necessity is over. Then the will ceases to act, and the nerves to 
convey force to the heart, and it stops beating. 

The effect of anger and rage upon the action of the heart is almost the 
opposite of that of fear. Instead of the coldness and fainting, we find rapid 
and tumultuous beating of the heart, the face becomes turgid and swollen, the 
temporal arteries throb, and the whole body, even to the extremities, seems 
to partake of the same condition, in some cases the eyes become "blood- 
shot," and blood flows from the nose or lungs. In others, apoplexy has 
been known to occur, and carry off the enraged man. All these symptoms 
denote the excited and innerved, or tense condition of the heart's mus- 
cular tissue. 

But people often "turn pale with rage." What does this imply? 
Simply that the irritation of the heart is so great that it cannot beat hard. 



MAN— THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 143 

It is closed tight upon itself, almost to the degree of spasm. It does not 
appear to beat at all, yet there is ?io fainting. It is the opposite of paral- 
ysis with distension, and the brain and muscles are not deprived of blood. 
In proof of this assertion, that rage does not paralyze the heart, is the fact 
that the emotion has been known to cause that fearfully painful affection 
known as angina pectoris, which is now believed to be a cramp of the heart. 

There is a condition which might be termed one of chronic anger, as 
when the mind dwells wrathfully upon some real or fancied wrong until it 
becomes the one dominant idea. This is allied to anxiety, and has a similar 
effect upon the heart. It causes a heavy oppression in the region of the 
heart, with irregular or intermittent pulse, and often leads to permanent 
disorders. It is imprudent and even dangerous for us to allow such a pas- 
sion to get possession of the mind. We can and ought to prevent it by a 
firm resolution, and the exercise of a Christian and forgiving spirit. It is not 
only good for our souls — our spiritual hearts — to forgive, but it is better for 
the well-doing of the physical heart. When we forgive a wrong, or trust 
implicitly in a Divine Providence to right everything, then the mental and 
physical strain relaxes, and we gain in mental and physical integrity. 

The emotion of joy, especially when sudden and unexpected, is very apt 
to influence the action of the heart in a remarkable manner. Its beats are at 
first greatly accelerated, and its action is excessive. It throws the blood in 
torrents all over the body, particularly the head. The face becomes flushed 
and burns with intense heat. In strong, robust persons, the arterial storm 
may subside, and leave no derangement behind; but in a person with an 
already weakened heart, the consequences may be troublesome. The reac- 
tion, or secondary effect, may be fainting, which may occur so soon after 
the onset of the emotion as to appear to be a primary effect. But a close 
observer would doubtless discern a brief period of excitement preceding. 

Lord Eglinton informed John Hunter " that when two soldiers were 
condemned to be shot, and one of them to receive a pardon, the event being 
decided by the throwing of dice, the one who proved successful — thus securing 
a reprieve — usually fainted, while the other remained calm." The American 
poetess, Lucretia Davidson, who died at the age of 17, often fainted when 
listening to some of her favorite melodies from Moore, yet, notwithstanding 
this, she would beg to have them repeated. A doorkeeper of Congress, 
an aged man, died suddenly on hearing the news of the capture of Lord 
Cornwallis' army. These are instances of fainting from joy. In the first 
cases, the heart, though weak, was able to bear the strain. In the last in- 
stance, that organ, weakened by age, was fatally injured by the sudden 
excitement. 

We see from these cases that there is danger even from one of the 



144 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

most delightful of emotions, and we should guard our minds from feeling 
strongly the influence of any. Stoicism is a mental state that can be culti- 
vated in most of us, especially when the nervous system has not lost its tone. 
The difficulty is that very susceptible persons are either born with an irri- 
table nervous organization, or it becomes an acquired condition. 

Grief, care, and anxiety, alone or combined, are very potent influences 
in injuring the integrity of the heart. Dr. Richardson says, " I have never 
met with a case of intermittent pulse in which the disorder was not sequen- 
tial to some anxiety, shock, fear, sorrow, or their similars." Of course he 
refers to disorders of the heart not organic, or rather not due to rheumatism; 
for it cannot be disputed that this long continuance of great anxiety is 
capable of bringing on actual structural changes in the heart. Bonnet, 
Morgagne, Tissot and others assert that dilatation of the heart has been 
caused by chagrin and anger. 

From statistics we learn that in the last twenty years deaths from heart 
disease have increased about twenty-five per cent., and that the percentage 
of the increase is entirely confined to men; and to those between the ages 
of twenty-one and forty-five, which is the time during which they are subject 
to the most trying emotional influences. I imagine that the reason why 
the percentage has not increased with women, is because they are exempt 
from many of the intense emotions to which men are subjected. Women 
seldom participate in exciting speculations, and therefore escape the shock 
of financial crises which injure so many. Thev do not engage in political 
controversy with its extremes of hope and anxiety, and the intense mental 
strain with which it is always attended. 

Homesickness is a condition in which grief and anxiety are com- 
mingled. It is a well known fact that Swiss and other soldiers taken from 
their native mountains often die of homesickness, and with symptoms 
which closely resemble fatal weakness of the heart. It has been observed 
by African travelers, among whom are Livingston and Baker, that when 
the natives belonging to some of the interior tribes were taken from their 
homes by force or bribes, their sufferings from homesickness were intense 
and sometimes fatal. These sufferings were not only mental, but physical, 
for when asked to point out the seat of their evident suffering, thev indi- 
cated correctly the region of the heart. These same authorities further 
assert that those who died showed all the evidences of death from cardiac 
disease. 

The sudden shock caused by grief, sorrow, and kindred emotions, 
in a manner nearly opposite to joy. When we hear of the unexpected 
death of a dear friend, the loss of all our worldly goods, or of some other 
great calamity, the heart seems to stop beating. In fact, it hesitates, often 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 145 

does stop, and syncope occurs. The blood is not thrown to the brain, and 
consciousness is lost. This condition, often caused by fright, terror, the 
sight of blood, or even expected suffering, often simulates death so closely 
as to deceive the most expert physician. It may actually cause death by 
rupture of the heart, or spasmodic closure of its cavities for such a length 
of time as to preclude recovery. But if restoration occurs, the heart has 
received such a strain that it may take that organ weeks and months to re- 
gain its original tone; or it may not recover at all, but lead finally to one of 
the many forms of organic disease. 

There is another form of disease resulting from grief which is too im- 
portant to be omitted from mention here. It is a condition of general de- 
bility, termed by medical men ancemia, or bloodlessness, or a condition of 
the blood in which the red portion is deficient. The process by which a 
weakened heart assumes this condition is often too complex to be explained 
to non-professional minds. It may briefly be described, however, as a con- 
dition of the heart which prevents its normal function of throwing the 
blood to all the tissues and organs of the body ; in consequence of which 
the skin becomes cool and pale, the extremities cold and emaciated. As a 
result of this imperfect circulation, the muscles become pale and flabby, the 
nerves insufficiently nourished, and every organ has its vitality impaired. 
As a direct consequence of this, we find the patient suffering from muscular 
debility, nervous debility, neuralgia, dyspepsia, derangement of the liver, 
and ail the blood-making organs. Impoverished blood is a certain and 
sure result of an insufficient supply of blood, and all these abnormal 
changes are due to a condition of the heart which may have originally been 
caused by the shock of unrequited affection, disappointed love, or the death 
of a beloved one. 

After the great fire in Chicago, it was observed by medical men that a 
larger proportion than usual of the diseases they were called upon to treat 
was due directly and indirectly to derangement of the heart. Probably no 
event in the history of this country ever caused more intense and profound 
shocks to those interested. The first effect in nearly all cases was a fierce 
and terrible excitement of the heart. Those who remembered their sensa- 
tions during that terrible day and night said that the beating of their hearts 
was so quick and hard that it seemed striving to break its way out of the 
chest. This condition was greatly aggravated by the severe physical exer- 
tion to which nearly all were subjected. The secondary effects, however, 
were those most manifest after the dreadful days were over. The excited 
heart-storm became lulled, but it was the deceitful calm of debility. The 
care, anxiety, sleeplessness, and enforced exertion of mind and body in- 
creased this cardiac debility. The heart's action became quick and weak, 
10 



140 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

or irregular or intermittent. All the organs, especially the brain, suffered 
from lack of blood. The brains of many became very irritable, and in- 
sanity ensued. In others, the brain became anaemic, and a profound melan- 
choly took possession of the victim, who afterward ended his life by suicide. 
Those who recovered did so by change of climate, or a constitutional 
elasticity which enabled them to resist the effects of debility. 

It may be asked, Do none of the emotions act in a beneficial manner 
on the heart and the general system? I reply, that the action of the emo- 
tions is like the action of food and medicines. In proper and moderate 
doses, thev do act beneficiallv. But there is a difference in their essential 
character. The depressing ones never cause any beneficial effects upon the 
physical body, although they may upon the spiritual life. The exhilarating 
emotions, however, act as stimulants and tonics, and actually increase the 
vitality of the heart and body, unless they are experienced in excess. Joy, 
moderate and continuous, increases the vital manifestations of physical and 
mental life. Love actually increases the health of its happy possessor, un- 
less it is marred by such depressing emotions as jealousy and envy. Hope 
is such an exhilarating tonic that it has carried many through great and de- 
pressing trials, and raised many from the lowest conditions of prostration, 
both mental and corporeal. 

INFLUENCE OF DIET. 

The great nerves which go to the heart from the brain and spinal 
cord also send branches to the stomach and other organs concerned in the 
process of digestion. The stomach and heart are in closer sympathy than 
is suspected by the great masses of people. Any irritation of the coats of 
the stomach from improper articles of diet, or any substance taken into 
that organ, can, by irritating its sensitive nervous supplv, send an influence 
to the cardiac nerves, which may, even in a healthy heart, cause it to beat 
more forcibly and rapidly than is normal. This will occur if the stomach 
is perfectly healthy, but if the digestive organs are diseased, then the 
morbid influence sent to the heart has a greater effect. What, then, must 
occur if both stomach and heart are in a weak and irritable condition? 
Evidently such an amount of irritation as will cause the heart to act so 
unnaturally as to simulate serious disease of that organ. 

It is doubtless a fact, too, that repeated errors in diet, such as overload- 
ing the stomach with indigestible food, and the use of stimulants, may, bv 
constant reflex irritation, weaken in time the healthiest heart. Keeping 
this in mind, common prudence and judgment would dictate to us that if 
we observe any undue action of the heart, or flushings of the face and full- 
ness of the head, even if we are not conscious that the heart itself is dis- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 147 

ordered, we should seek to ascertain the offending articles of diet, and banish 
them from the table. 

I will try to point out a few of the articles which are most likely to 
act in the manner above indicated. 

Flesh-Food. — In some persons, mostly those of full and plethoric 
habit, the habitual use of meat, especially if it forms the principal portion 
of each meal, causes increased labor to be performed by the heart. This 
may arise from the highly-stimulating character of the food, as also from 
the unnatural amount of blood manufactured from such a diet. This increased 
labor may have effects of a diverse character in different forms. If the 
individual has general muscular debility, it would probably cause enlarge- 
ment of the cavities of the heart, with thinning of its muscular walls, and 
this condition implies great weakness and irritability of that organ. The 
results would be palpitation of the heart after each meal, and after any 
unusual exercise, going up stairs, running, and the like. 

Another result, of quite an opposite character, would occur in persons 
of large, strong muscles, with an excess of blood. The already strong 
muscular structure of the heart, being constantly fed by a great blood-sup- 
ply, and working hard to distribute such supply, will grow in size and 
strength, as a blacksmith's arm grows, until a condition of the heart ob- 
tains which is known as enlargement with thickening of the walls of the 
heart. 

Men who are engaged in athletic sports as a business or a pleasure 
are obliged, from the nature of their avocation, to adopt a peculiar diet. 
Boating, base-ball playing, gymnastics, pedestrianism, and pugilism, all re- 
quire their votaries to " go into training," which means that they must go 
through certain processes of rubbing, bathing, and exercise, and also feed 
almost exclusively on animal food. All this is done to increase the size and 
strength of each muscle in the body, especially those which are to be used 
in the special business or pleasure in which the person engages. But this 
increase in muscular power is often gained only to bring with it so much 
abnormal power in the heart as to lead to serious if not fatal consequences. 

Dr. Richardson, in his " Diseases of Modern Life," has correctly 
pointed out the dangers to the heart of this excessive physical " training," 
or rather over-straining of the muscular system. He says: " The exact 
mode of death from physical overwork is by the destruction of those parts 
of the body on which the involuntary acts of life depend, viz., the muscles 
and nervous structure engaged in the digestion of food, the circulation of 
blood, and the respiration. * * * The heart by nature is en- 

dowed, as an active organ, with extreme powers of resistance and endurance. 
It also possesses in a limited degree the property of renovating itself, and 



148 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

even of becoming larger and more powerful as it is subjected to undue 
labor. Hence, in purely natural states of existence, as in the primitive life, 
when good food and good air supply perfect blood for building up the tissues, 
the heart will continue to an advanced age to support an action consider- 
ably beyond the merely required range of its functions. In our own 
country, in rural districts, we frequently meet with men who are accustomed 
to run, leap, carry heavy burdens, or walk unusual distances per day, until 
an advanced age, and without great suffering. On listening to the hearts of 
these men, we find, however, the beat unnaturally strong; and as they ap- 
proach their decline, they invariably complain of breathlessness, and of 
symptoms indicative of an oppressed circulation."' 

The same writer explains that this increase in the power and size of the 
heart leads to serious congestions of various organs — as the head, causing 
apoplexy; the lungs, causing bleeding; and the liver, causing bilious condi- 
tions; and mentions especially the fact that the victims of these accidents 
are those who are addicted to the so-called athletic sports, such as foot-ball, 
boxing, rowing, leaping, and running. He speaks of the well-known dis- 
ease of the large blood-vessels of the body called aneurism, " meaning a 
rupture of one of the coats of the artery, allowing that portion to pouch 
and form an enlargement at the point injured. This disease is caused by 
an excessive action of the heart, throwing such an amount of blood into the 
arteries that it cannot be carried through the system, but is thrown back by 
concussion upon the heart, and thus mechanically injures the wall of the 
artery." 

There is a peculiar form of heart-disease which is brought on by a 
diet of fats, or those substances, like sugar and starch, which are, in some 
persons, rapidly converted into fat. I allude to " fatty hearts." There are 
two forms of this disease; we seldom find them separately, however, for 
the causes of one are the causes of the other. In one variety, the heart is 
loaded down with an accumulation of fat deposited upon it. This inter- 
feres with its action, embarrasses its motion, and leads to great weakness 
and irregularity. The other variety exists when the muscular structure 
becomes permeated with fat, or, as some would define it, the muscular fibers 
become transformed into fat. These diseased conditions rarely occur except 
in persons who are disposed to grow fat, or become adipose, from constitu- 
tional or hereditary tendency. The whole body shares the habit of fatty de- 
posits. Such persons should carefully watch this tendency, and if they 
discern any symptoms of weakness of the heart, or oppressed breathing, 
they should strictly eliminate from cheir diet all fats, sugar, starch, and alco- 
holic or malt liquors, and live on lean meats, well-baked bread, and similar 
?Z0tt-fat-producing articles. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 149 

Coffee. — Among the articles in common use in nearly every country ' 
is the berry of the coffee tree. This in its crude state may be considered a 
poison to the nervous system. For this reason, it is always subjected to a 
process known as " browning," or roasting, which drives off a portion of 
a semi-volatile principle known to chemists as caffeine, a specific poison to 
the heart. Experiments on animals demonstrate that it at first causes in- 
creased action of the heart with a rise in the arterial pressure, but this is 
soon followed by a corresponding decrease of pressure, and the heart then 
becomes paralyzed. In the same experiments it was observed that the 
spinal cord was irritated to such an extent that tetanus, or " lock-jaw," oc- 
curred. The excessive use of coffee as a beverage sooner or later breaks 
down the tone of the nervous system ; next, it interferes with digestion to 
such an extent as to almost arrest that process. I have treated very many 
cases of chronic and obstinate dyspepsia that would yield to no remedy un- 
til the patient gave up the use of coffee. To such an extent are the diges- 
tive organs weakened by it, that the food is hurried through the stomach a 
short time after it is swallowed, and before it has had time to be absorbed 
as a nutritive agent. Even if it is retained, it seems to pass along the di- 
gestive tract without passing into the absorbent system. The strongest 
organism cannot long withstand such a deprivation of nutriment, and the 
heart soon becomes as weak as the stomach, and this increases the dys- 
peptic condition to an alarming degree. 

There is but one class of persons with whom coffee agrees, namely : 
Those whose avocations necessitate great exertion and labor in the open air. 
Soldiers, sailors, hunters, miners, etc., can drink an amount of coffee in a day 
that would soon destroy the integrity of the nervous system and the diges- 
tive organs in persons of a sedentary habit. The reason is that the active 
exercise causes profuse perspiration and great destruction of tissue-elements. 
All this waste is accompanied with elimination of the caffeine from the 
blood. But if coffee is used by persons whose life is spent in repose or in- 
doors, the caffeine is retained in the blood, and the nervous system is rap- 
idly poisoned by its injurious influence. 

Ample opportunity to observe the effects of coffee on the two classes 
— the active and the sedentary — was afforded during the late civil war. It 
was observed that men who for years had been victims of dyspepsia — who 
could not drink a cup of coffee without much suffering — whose hearts were 
feeble and whose whole constitutions were so deranged that they barely 
passed an examination, after a few weeks in the army, exposed to the active 
exercise incident to a soldier's life, could drink the strongest coffee three 
times a day, without feeling any of its former injurious effects. These men, 
unless subjected to imprisonment in close and unventilated quarters, gener- 



150 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ally came back to civil life with robust health and powerful digestion. 
But it was observed that, on renewing their sedentary occupations, coffee 
became to them as much of a poison as before, its use bringing on the same 
train of digestive derangements, palpitation of the heart, headache, etc^ 
The deductions to be made from these facts are, that persons of sedentary 
habits, with feeble circulation, and nervous irritability, should abstain from 
the use of coffee. The most troublesome cases of heart-disorder I ever 
treated were induced by the excessive use of that delicious French beverage, 
cafe au lait. 

Tea. — Tea exercises a more baneful influence on the heart than coffee. 
The alkaloid theine is very analagous to caffeine, but has a greater tendency 
to injure the nerves which regulate the heart's action. One of the first 
symptoms of excessive tea-drinking is a sensation of " sinking," faintness, or 
weakness at the pit of the stomach. This symptom is generally a sure in- 
dication of cardiac debility. If the use of tea is persisted in, other symptoms 
supervene, such as trembling of the heart, corresponding to the trembling 
of the hands which so annoys the tea-drinkers. Afterward come palpitation 
of the heart, sighing respiration, feebleness of circulation, cold extremities, 
great sensitiveness to atmospheric changes from cold to hot, or vice versa. 
The neuralgia which comes from tea-drinking is the result of cardiac weak- 
ness, and usually subsides after the use of tea, particularly green tea, is 
abandoned, or some cardiac tonic is taken to antidote its effects. I allude 
to green tea, because that corresponds to unroasted coffee. Black tea is sub- 
jected to the action of artificial heat during the process of drying; it is in 
fact roasted, and a large portion of the theine is driven out of the leaf. 
Green tea is cured by the natural heat of the atmosphere, or a low degree of 
artificial heat, and thus retains a larger quantity of its theine. 

Tea differs from coffee in never causing primarily such an intense dys- 
peptic condition. The weakness of the stomach is a secondary symptom 
due to its enervating influence upon the heart. A weak heart causes a 
weak stomach. A weak heart implies a deficient supply of blood to all the 
organs. A deficient blood-supply diminishes the functional activity of the 
organs. There is one exception, however, to this, and one which I confess I 
cannot satisfactorily explain. I allude to the action of tea upon the brain. It 
seems to increase not only the functional activity of the brain, but its endurance 
of mental labor. I have always thought that tea, like the Indian " hasheesh," 
had some speciric, stimulating influence on the purely psychical portion of 
our system. Certain it is that, amid the general debility of the nervous and 
physical organism caused by tea, the power and activity of the intellectual 
faculties remain not only unimpaired, but actuallv increased. To this I 
refer the sleeplessness caused by tea, and not to the deprivation of the brain 



MAN — THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. L5J 

of its usual amount of blood, as is the case with other drugs which weaken 
the heart. 

But the literary man and the intellectual laborer should not live on the 
influence of tea alone. Unless the tea-drinker takes a sufficiency of nitrog- 
enous food to manufacture blood and nerve-tissues, the constant intellectual 
strain will tell upon the brain; and the general health will soon be so 
wretched as to diminish the physical capacity for mental labor. A man or 
woman can drink large and repeated quantities of an infusion of black tea 
without any general injurious effect, if they will at the same time live on 
a strong nutritious diet. 

I would advise that green tea never be used. It is rarely used in 
China, Russia or England, countries which consume more good tea than 
all the rest of the world. Black tea is not much better if cooked as 
green tea is, namely, quickly infused. It should be made by decoction 
(steeped or boiled). The longer it is steeped the less theine remains, and the 
greater is the amount of nutritious matter extracted. Tea leaves contain 
nearly as much nutritive material as peas or beans, and more than any other 
leaf. It is the custom in some countries — and a very good one — to eat the 
leaves after the decoction is drunk. It would be quite as sensible to throw 
away beans or rice, and only use the liquid portion of the soup, as tc throw 
away the leaves and only use the infusion. 

TOBACCO AND ALCOHOL. 

Tobacco. — The use of tobacco in some form is well nigh universal. It 
is more generally used than tea and coffee, for there are countries where the 
latter are scarcely known. It were useless to inveigh in general terms against 
the use of this drug. If it were always as deleterious as some assert, it 
would not be as extensively used. I do not deny that it is a poison, but so 
are many other agents which enter into our daily life as food or beverage. 
In large quantities, i. <?., large enough to cause death, it has the following 
effects: — The brain is found empty and pale; the stomach is reddened 
in round spots, so raised and pile-like that they resemble patches of 
dark Utrecht velvet; the blood is preternaturally fluid; the lungs are pale, 
like those of a calf when we see them suspended in the shambles; while the 
heart, overburdened with blood, and having little power left for its forcing 
action, is scarcely contracting, but is feebly trembling, as if, like a conscious 
thing, it knew equally its own responsibility and its own weakness. It is 
not beating, it is fluttering; its mechanism is perfect, but each fiber of it to its 
minutest part is impregnated with a substance which holds it in bondage, 
and will not let it go. I have seen cases of accidental poisoning from 
tobacco, in cases of children, when the ear placed over the heart could detect 



l0'2 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

only this faint, tremulous motion, and so feeble was its action that no wave 
reached the wrist. 

While it would be difficult to prove that tobacco ever caused structural 
disease of the heart, there is no doubt in the mind of any medical man that 
it is capable, even in moderate use, of causing troublesome functional disor- 
ders. Bv functional disorder I mean what is generally known to the public 
as nervous derangements. It is a condition cf the nerves and muscles of 
the heart that causes it to act feebly, irregularly, and too excitedly.' It is an 
increase of action without an increase of force. I have had many opportu- 
nities to observe the effects of tobacco on the heart, especially in inveterate 
smokers, and the symptoms are not only unpleasant, but at times alarming. 
These symptoms often appear suddenly, and after the smoker has used 
tobacco for years with apparent impunity; and they may last for hours at a 
time. They are characterized by palpitation, a sensation as though the 
heart were rising into the throat, a feeling of breathlessness, and an insup- 
portable pain in the region of the heart. Pain of a spasmodic kind extends 
also to the muscles of the chest, and occasionally to those of the arm, espe- 
cially of the left arm. I have had patients who were supposed to be 
suffering from that terrible form of neuralgia of the heart, called angina 
pectoris, and for whom no medicine gave relief till they abandoned the use 
of tobacco. 

If I should be asked the question, " Is tobacco ever beneficial to the 
heart?" I should reply in the affirmative. My own observation has con- 
vinced me that moderate smoking is beneficial in two conditions of the 
heart, namely (i), an over-action of the heart, as after severe labor or great 
mental excitement, when it beats with undue force and unnatural rapidity; 
(2), in cases of enlargement with thickening, or when the heart-muscle is 
too strong and powerful. In these cases, tobacco, if used carefully, and at 
the proper time, acts as a calming and restraining remedy, soothing the ex- 
cited heart, and acting in all respects as a curative medicine. But persons 
having an already weakened heart should not use tobacco. Nor should 
any one with a heart organically diseased, except the enlargement above 
mentioned. It is especially to be deprecated in young persons — those un- 
der eighteen or twenty years of age — for not until then has the heart, or 
any other muscle, attained its mature strength, and consequently is before 
that age more easily weakened. Tobacco is much less injurious when 
smoked in the open air than in a close room, for the reason that in the 
former case less is absorbed into the blood through the respiratory organs. 

Alcohol. — When speaking of articles of food, I advised the avoid- 
ance of fats and sugar by persons disposed to corpulency or obesitv. The 
same advice will apply to ail fluids containing a large percentage of alco- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 153 

hol, and to malt liquors. Sugar, starch and alcohol change to fatty ele- 
ments when assimilated by the body. This is the rule in certain constitu- 
tions which are disposed to make adipose or fatty tissue. They not only 
cause an excessive deposit of such tissue all over the body, but especially 
upon and in the heait. In this organ it accumulates in excess in the same 
location as the normal deposit, which is upon the auricles. When an ab- 
normal deposit occurs, it interferes mechanically with free movements, 
weakening the strong heart and almost paralyzing the already weakened one. 

But alcohol causes a more serious disease of the heart, namely, fatty 
degeneration, " an interposition within the fiber of a fatty substance by 
which the true muscular elements are partially replaced, or a degeneration 
produced by an excess of fluid between the muscular elements." " In 
these states, the power of the heart to propel the blood is enfeebled, and, 
although for a much longer time than might be expected the heart re- 
sponds to the agent that is destroying it, and continues to beat more freely 
when the extreme vessels are paralyzed and the arterial vessel is weakened, 
a time at last comes when the absence of the recoil is the forerunner of 
death. For it is by the recoil of the great arteries that the heart itself is 
fed with the sustaining blood. When, therefore, this back stroke of the 
circulation is greatly weakened, and the flow of arterial blood through the 
heart is reduced, then the nutrition of the pulsating organ is impeded, and 
the over-stimulant, failing to stimulate, becomes even a depressent." (Rich- 
ardson, Dis. of Modern Life.) In this condition of the heart a slight 
cause may lead to fatal results. A mental shock, a mechanical strain, an 
exposure to cold, or unusual abstinence from food, is Often sufficient to 
break down completely in a brief hour the enfeebled organ of circulation. 

Of course I have alluded above to that excessive use of alcoholic bev- 
erages which brings about a condition which we term alcoholism, and 
which will change the most robust organism into one utterly shattered and 
debilitated. But the moderate, and what is termed the medicinal use of al- 
cohol, in the form of wine, or beer, or spirits of any kind, may, under cer- 
tain conditions, cause a similar state of disease. We will suppose a case of 
a person debilitated by an}' disease. He is emaciated; has a weakened 
heart, because it> is emaciated; is advised to take whiskey, alone, or with 
cod-liver oil. At first he is benefited, unless the dose is too large — but he 
finds it difficult to discontinue its use after he has regained his normal 
strength. He can leave off the oil, but he misses the stimulating effects of 
the alcohol, and, unaware of the danger, he continues its use, the dose gen- 
erally increasing day after day. Soon the deposition of the fat or water in 
the body becomes abnoimal, he grows adipose or dropsical, and in time 
gets a weakness of the heart which cannot be cured. 



154 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Physicians are not cautious enough in prescribing alcoholic stimulants, 
or tonics associated with alcohol. They do not warn their patients of the 
danger of too long use of stimulants, or tell them when they should leaye 
them off. My practice brings me into frequent contact with men in whom 
alcoholism had its origin in the medicinal use of spirits. I have met with 
many estimable persons, ladies and gentlemen in the highest ranks of so- 
ciety, who could date the origin of a fatty heart to the too prolonged and 
excessive use of whiskey and codpliver oil. 

The excessive use of beer and porter tends to cause fatty degeneration, 
especially in those who have not been accustomed to use them all their 
lives. Many Americans are advised to drink beer for the removal of 
chronic or acute debility, or for the purpose of increasing their e?7ibonfioint. 
Not being accustomed to the use of such beverages, as are the English and 
Germans, the alcohol takes deeper hold of the system, and its effects are 
manifested in a deleterious manner, especially on the muscular structure of 
the heart. 

IMPURE AIR. 

The influence of impure air upon the heart is injurious in the extreme. 
The heart needs for its healthy nutrition as pure blood as does the brain or 
lungs. The healthiest hearts are found in persons residing in mountainous 
countries where the air is pure. The weakest hearts, as a rule, are found 
among those who live in dark, close rooms, on the crowded streets of great 
cities. 

Why do people faint in crowded rooms, in churches or theaters? We 
say the air is " close," but that does not explain it. All faintings are due 
to deficiency of blood in the brain. This condition may arise from several 
causes: (i) Contraction of the cerebral blood-vessels from vaso-motor 
spasm, as in hysterical fainting, or fainting from some emotional influence. 
(2) Weakness of the heart, which may be sudden and transitory, from 
mental impressions or excessive heat of the atmosphere, or organic fullness 
from disease. (3) But the fainting which most commonly occurs in 
crowded assemblies is due to the noxious influence of carbonic oxide, and 
may affect healthy as well as unhealthy hearts. Some experiments have 
shown that if a stream of carbonic acid gas is passed, with the blood cur- 
rent, through a healthy heart, it becomes paralyzed. Now, the same thing 
occurs when we sit in crowded, unventilated rooms. The air of such is 
generally saturated with this pernicious gas. We take it into the lungs, it 
is absorbed, taken up by the blood, and carried directly to the heart. Its 
effect on the heart is often felt without the occurrence of other svmptoms, 
and the victim faints suddenly. In other cases, he feels a sense of stupor 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 155 

that steals away his consciousness, which is due to the presence of the 
poison in the brain. In this manner act the fumes of charcoal, under 
whose dread influence so many unfortunates pass into the unknown world. 
In poisoning by carbonic oxide, the heart beats feebler and feebler, it sends 
a constantly lessening amount of blood to the brain, until there comes a 
time when the cerebral vessels are not filled; then fainting results. During 
such syncope, the heart's action can scarcely be perceived. It has al- 
most failed to distribute the vital fluid to the body. The extremities are 
cold and pale, the face pallid and pinched, and the pulse feeble or im- 
perceptible. 

The reader should studiously observe the rules for " Ventilation " as 
given under Hygiene and Home-Nursing, and also acquaint himself with 
the directions for reviving the victim of poisoning from carbonic acid which 
are laid down under "Suffocation" in the chapter on Emergencies and 
Domestic Surgery. 

EXERCISE. 

Under the head of exercise, I shall include all kinds of physical exer- 
tion. I shall first treat of those which, if carried to excess, may injure the 
healthy heart, and, secondly, physical exertions which should be avoided by 
those whose hearts are not normally strong. 

It may be stated, as a general axiom, that no other organ of the body is 
so much affected by exercise as the heart. Its normally healthy action is 
quickened by walking fast, riding on horseback, running, ascending heights, 
climbing, rowing and leaping. Even a change of posture, such as rising 
from a sitting or lying posture, will change temporarily the number of the 
beats. 

There is hardly a more difficult problem than that of determining the 
natural bounds of physical exercise. The labor that is almost necessary to 
the health and well-being of a tiller of the soil would be very injurious to 
the denizen of the city. The severe exercise of the mountaineer would 
injure the healthy resident of the plains, and the physical exertion of the 
boatman and sailor, which gives them the most robust life, would tell 
severely on the inhabitants of the country or the village. Hence, much of 
the value of active exercise depends on habits of life, either hereditary or 
acquired. There are kinds which seem to belong to some people or classes, 
and cannot, with safety, be adopted by others without long training. 

The fashionable rage for athletic or gymnastic exercises is open to se- 
vere and deserved criticism, for incalculable injury may be done, and has 
been done, by undue and uncalled for physical strain. Dr. Richardson, in 
his Diseases of Modern Life, boldly says : 

" There is no sign, there is no evidence anywhere that the greater cult- 



156 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ure of the physical strength has favored the longevity of the individual, or 
the vital tenacity of a race. The observations made by the physicians of 
the Greek, Roman, Arabian, and Italian schools, respecting excessive phys- 
ical exercise and the maladies incident to it, admit of but one rigid interpre- 
tation, namely: That such exercise insures premature decay and early 
death. The facts to be elicited in modern times from the vital statistics of 
England, France and Prussia, lead equally to the inevitable conclusion that 
removal of excessive endurance tends to health and length of life, and that 
in each country, within its own population, the value of life is influenced to 
the favorable side by the reduction of the physical expenditure. The most 
striking fact of this kind is afforded in the history of the Jewish race. In 
no period in the history of this wonderful people, since their dispersion, do 
we discern the faintest approach to any system amongst them tending to the 
studied development of physical capacity. Since they were conquered they 
have never, from choice, borne arms, nor sought distinction in military 
prowess; they have been little inducted, during their many pilgrimages, 
into the public games of the countries in which they have been located; 
their own ordinances and hygienic laws, perfect in other particulars, are in- 
definite in respect to special means for the development of great corporal 
strength and stature, and the fact remains that as a people they have never 
exhibited what is considered a high physical standard. And yet the broad 
truth stands forth, that this race has not only endured the oppression of 
centuries, without being lost, but as it exists now, scattered here and there 
on the earth, in different countries, and amongst the most varied social and 
natural conditions, is, of all civilized races, the first in vitality. It would be 
impossible, and in truth unnecessary, to enforce any stronger argument as 
to the negative value of excessive physical exertion in sustaining the vital 
force of a race. In the course of centuries, the most powerful nations have 
died out, and empires of perfect physical beauty and chivalric fame have 
passed awa}\ But through all these vicissitudes one race, cultivating none 
of the so-called athletic and heroic qualities, and following none of the ex- 
ercises popularized as ' bracing,' < hardy,' ' invigorating,' has held its impres- 
sible own, to remain a more numerous people in its totalitv than ever; a 
people still presenting a more tenacious life than its neighbors, and show- 
ing, as it is relieved of the cruel restraints long forced on it, the continuance 
also of mental force and of commanding genius, in art, in letters, in poli- 
tics, in commerce, and in science." It may be added here that the mortality 
of the Jewish race from diseases of the chest, is very far below that of any 
other race. Among these diseases, those of the heart are enumerated. 

There are two kinds of violent exertion which destrov the vitality of 
the heart: — 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 157 

I. Prolonged and systematic strain, such as particular occupations re- 
quire. This continued strain may be endured for years, and show no seri- 
ous effects on the circulation. Among- certain tribes of American Indians, 
a class are trained from childhood as " runners.*' These men become 
capable of running all day by the side of a horse or sledge, without appear- 
ing to show signs of fatigue. But they finally " wear out," and the majority 
of them die prematurely. 

Dr. Richardson believes that in cases of heart-failure from prolonged 
daily strain, the injury begins in the right ventricle cavity. The walls of 
this chamber, which has to keep the circuit of blood supplied through the 
lungs, are naturally much thinner than the wall of the left ventricle, which 
carries the blood all over the body. If this right ventricle, which has to 
make, say 100,000 strokes in twenty-four hours, and thereby drive over the 
lungs 18,750 lbs of blood, be taxed beyond its natural power of endurance, 
if it has not a certain number of hours, say eight, for what may be called 
easy work or play, and another certain number of hours, aay eight more, 
for work at less pressure while the body sleeps, it must of necessity weary 
in its duty. But the heart must supply itself with food — that is to say, 
blood — for its own nutrition, and whenever it fails to supply the body, it 
fails first to supply itself. Thus, from overwork it soon becomes enfeebled, 
and most easily in that part or it which feels primary fatigue. This weak- 
ness of the heart is not felt at first in vigorous persons, but when the age of 
forty or fifty is reached, it becomes very noticeable. None but medical men 
know how many persons die from this one source of physical failure, or 
how insidiously the symptoms of worn-out heart make their progress 
through all classes of the laboring community. The general symptoms in- 
dicating failure are that the victims begin to lose something of their phys- 
ical power, not in the limbs, but in the body. The breathing becomes 
embarrassed from slight causes. Rest is more frequently required. They 
suffer unduly from alternations of heat and cold. They feel an internal 
exhaustion or vacuity, which they refer to the chest. Finally, some organic 
change in the lungs, kidneys or brain sets in, and ends fatally. 

II. There is another kind of heart-failure much more sudden and fatal 
in its effects. It is that resulting from some very sudden and violent phys- 
ical strain. This may result from excessive action of the heart, or from 
sudden arrest of action, or over-distension. There are also cases in which 
this sudden physical heart-strain has been complicated with some sudden 
mental emotion, like rage or grief. It is believed that actual rupture of 
the heart, a real " broken heart," has resulted from such double strain. 

The effects of sudden, violent heart-strain may be brought on by sev- 
eral means. The most common is running. During this act the heart 



158 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

has to make up the waste ot force by excessive action. A healthy heart, 
which beats normally 72 per minute, will, when a person is running 
violently, beat as many as 120 per minute; and the force of its action is 
proportionately increased. Many people have perfectly healthy hearts who 
are not accustomed to violent running. In such, this act is as likely to in- 
jure the heart as it would any other muscular structure not accustomed to 
violent use. We will suppose that a healthy man, who never, or rarely, 
struck a blow with a heavy hammer or sledge, attempts to use one as a 
blacksmith does for many successive hours. What is the result? Un- 
doubtedly such over-strain of the great muscles of the arm as will result in 
paralysis or serious inflammation. 

I have treated many cases, and heard of many more, wherein serious 
and even fatal injury to the heart has resulted from running to catch the 
cars. Men or women who are accustomed to a quiet life in the house or 
office will thoughtlessly run violently to catch a street-car at the corner, or a 
steam-car at the station. There is often added to this physical exertion 
some mental anxiety. Nothing could be more dangerous and imprudent. 
The hearts of those leading a sedentary life are entirely unfitted for such 
violent exertion. The right chamber is generally injured thereby, because 
of the great exertions it must make to carry on the circulation through the 
rapidly moving lungs. 

I well remember being called a few years ago to attend a lady who 
was well known as a woman of much literary culture, and high mental ca- 
pacity. I found her suffering from an over-distension, or thinning, of the 
walls of the right side of the heart. She could not lie down because of the 
suffocating sensations which ensued. Nor could she walk across the house 
or up stairs without great distress. The heart beat very tremulously and 
feebly. She gave this history of her case: Only a year before she was in 
good health. She was not then aware, from any sensation in the chest, 
that she possessed a heart. In an evil hour, however, late one evening, on 
returning home from a visit in a distant portion of the city, she ran violently 
to catch what she supposed to be the last night-car. Her husband assisted 
her, and she reached it, but on entering the car she became blind and dizzv, 
and suffered from great oppression of the chest. On reaching home the 
oppression was attended with a sensation of great soreness, as if the heart 
had been bruised, and each beat was painful. She was attended bv one of 
our best physicians who treated her for several weeks for congestion of the 
lungs, for there was a short, dry cough, with constant oppression of the chest. 
She never rallied from this over-strain, but constantly grew worse, until I 
found her in the condition described. I could not afford her more than tem- 
porary relief, for the heart was structurally diseased, and she died in a 
few months. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 159 

This is but a typical instance of the many cases now in existence in 
this city, Chicago, in which such over-exertion has resulted in permanent 
injury to the heart. After the great fire of 1871, hundreds of cases came 
under medical care, for serious cardiac disease incurred on that dreadful 
night when men and delicate women had to run miles to save their lives. 

If such exercise will so seriously affect the average healthy heart, what 
will it do to one already weakened by disease? The enfeebled heart may be 
utterly destroyed by such over-exertion. I once knew a lady who, after run- 
ning two blocks to intercept a car, suddenly dropped dead on entering it. 
An examination of the heart showed that it had died in an open and relaxed 
condition. It had failed to contract from utter exhaustion, and its cavities 
were filled with coagulated blood. 

The foolish custom of climbing long stairways, as in public buildings or 
monuments, has seriously injured thousands. It is an exertion so unusual 
that the heart cannot withstand the intense strain. Many tourists, who have 
more ambition than judgment, have fallen victims to their mountain-climb- 
ing. Here the physical strain is aggravated by the rarified air in which they 
labor, which causes the heart, aside from the excitement of the exertion of 
the body, to beat with greater rapidity and force. 

The dangers attending the popular games of base-ball, foot-races, 
boat-racing, and other violent competitive exercises, can scarcely be over- 
rated. The applause of the world and of admiring friends would be turned 
to sorrow if they knew the future trouble which may be the lot of those 
who strain every muscle to win their applause. If the votaries of these 
games were trained to them from their childhood, as were the Greeks for their 
Olympian games, the injury would be far less. The danger lies in the 
fact that but few have been so trained. They come from avocations where 
such physical training has not been practiced. I allude particularly to the 
youth who attend colleges and universities. So soon as they begin their studies 
they are enrolled in some club, and every leisure hour is devoted to violent 
exercise. In order to attain any degree of perfection in athletic strength, 
the functions of the brain must be neglected, or should be, for it is suicidal 
to tax the brain to severe study, and at the same time tax the body by 
intense physical exercise. 

Those who have had opportunities of observing the effects ot compet- 
itive athletic sports, especially in England, deplore their effects on the heart. 
They say that while the voluntary muscles are cultivated to such a degree, 
the involuntary are enlarged and strengthened in a corresponding degree; 
thus the heart becomes larger, thicker and stronger, and enabled to do more 
work. But there comes a time when this kind of a life must be abandoned, 
and the man return to the ordinary business pursuits. Then, when the 



160 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

artificial muscular training has ceased, the voluntary muscles soon lapse 
down to an ordinary tone, but the involuntary muscles, of the heart espe- 
cially, do not lapse in the same way, because that organ does not rest. It 
therefore remains in its acquired strength, all out of proportion to the rest of 
the muscular system. The man, instead of being benefited by his physical 
training, is seriously injured, and his future capacity for physical exercise is 
greatly hampered by the violent beating of an enlarged heart, of whose un- 
pleasant action he is ever conscious. 

It is time that all the foolish talk about the elevating and beneficial ef- 
fects of spasmodic and acquired athletic spoils should cease. The best 
medical men in other countries understand and proclaim the danger. Dr. 
Richardson says: " I venture to affirm there is not in England a trained 
professional athlete of the age of thirty-five, who has been ten years at his 
calling, who is not disabled." There must be no disproportion of strength 
between the heart and the voluntary muscular system. If there is, the 
whole body suffers. When a strong, robust man has had a rheumatic af- 
fection of the heart, without general muscular rheumatism, the heart be- 
comes the weakest of all the muscles, and is therefore unable to supplv the 
body with its proper amount of blood. Then the most remarkable results 
follow, and the victim usually dies of dropsy, or fatal lack of nutrition of 
some important organ. 

CAUTION DURING CONVALESCENCE. 

Great ignorance prevails among the public in relation to the condition 
of the heart after acute diseases. They do not know that it is left as weak 
as the rest of the body. The fact is, that during the progress of many pros- 
trating diseases, and during convalescence from nearly all, the heart is verv 
feeble. This is especially so in children and old people. Great care should 
therefore be taken by friends and nurses, that no undue emotional excite- 
ment seize the patient, or that any sudden or active movement be indulged 
in. Many people have lost their lives by an impatient, sudden motion, 
such as rising from the bed, walking across the floor, etc. The cause of 
death in such cases is found in a weakness of the heart, which results in fa- 
tal fainting from the shock of sudden labored action. While the bodv was 
lying, the weak heart had no difficulty in throwing the blood all over the 
body; but when the erect posture was suddenly assumed, it was inadequate 
to the task of propelling the weight of the blood upward to the head, and it 
was retained in its cavities, distending to the point of paralysis. In fact, death 
occurs from paralysis of the heart. The danger from this cause is greatest 
after acute rheumatic or other inflammations of the heart, or in patients 
who have been ill with some fever or inflammation of other organs, but 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 161 

who have already some organic disease of the heart. The latter class 
should always be careful in their exercise. The organically diseased heart 
will pump the blood into all its various channels with sufficient force to 
carry on the functions of life, so long as its work is regular and uniform, 
but it may fail the moment it is taxed with any unusual labor. 

THE HEARTS OF CHILDREN 

Are peculiarly delicate, and easily deranged. I imagine you asking the 
question: "Do children have heart-disease?" I answer yes, and very 
often. Quite a large percentage of children are born with some organic 
disease of the heart. These diseases arise from two causes, namely: (i) 
Arrest of development ; (2) Ante-natal inflammation. 

Some of you may have seen cases which belong to the first class. 
Among the most common is that disease known as "cyanosis," or the "blue 
disease," in which the child assumes, soon after birth, a blue or purplish 
color, and it soon dies — few live to mature years. I ought to say here, that 
it is recommended that children born with such a disease be placed on their 
right side, with the head and shoulders elevated as high as 45 degrees, or 
nearly half erect. This allows the heart to work more easily, and some- 
times prevents the arterial blood from mixing with the venous. It is this 
mixing of the two kinds of blood which causes the blue color that gives the 
disease its name. Cases have come under my care in which this position of 
the child had to be constantly maintained for days and weeks, or until the 
heart became able to carry on its work, or the malformation had been 
remedied. The child would breathe easily, sleep well, and have a good 
color so long as it was kept in the position I have described; but any change 
caused blueness, difficult breathing, and other symptoms. 

There are certain diseases of children which may result fatally unless 
great care is taken that the heart is not overtaxed. Among these, rheuma- 
tism, diphtheria, scarlet fever and pneumonia are most prominent. Rheuma- 
tism usually leaves such injury to the valves that any violent motion excites 
the heart so much that the incompetent valves do not allow the blood to 
flow properly through the heart. Diphtheria is more dangerous to the heart 
than any other malady. You have heard of cases in which the child passed 
through an attack of this disease, and was supposed to be out of all danger. 
It would be allowed to sit up or walk about the room, when, to the astonish- 
ment of all, it has fallen down suddenly dead. Sucli cases are common. 
The child dies from paralysis of the heart, which has been poisoned by the 
virus of this fearful disease, just as the heart is poisoned by the venom of a 
serpent. After an attack of diphtheria or pneumonia children should be 
watched carefully, lest they make some sudden motion. They should be 



16"2 COMPEXDIL'M OF HEALTH. 

kept quiet, and, if not too young, cautioned of the serious consequences that 

may follow such motion. 

DISEASES OF THE HEART. 

In the description of the circulatory system given above, we find that 
its functions are among the most important of the whole body. A disease 
affecting any portion of this system is of great interest, especially when it 
involves the heart. A very few years only have elapsed since anything 
like the present knowledge of this organ existed, either in its normal state, 
or when disturbed by disease; and from this new knowledge many diseases 
have been rightly located and previous errors exploded. We find that, in 
manv instances, what was supposed to be apoplexy proved to be some 
heart disease, and, on the contrary, what was supposed to be disease of the 
heart was a disorder in some remote part, exerting itself on this organ 
through the action of the sympathetic nerves. 

Diseases of the heart may be divided into two classes : Organic, consist- 
ing of some structural change in the organ; and functional, the result of 
cha?iged actio?i, dependent on influences outside of the heart itself. The 
latter are far the more common, and also attended with the less danger. 
In fact, in the organic diseases, the symptoms are often never felt by the 
patient, life perhaps terminating suddenly without warning. 

As the functional diseases quite frequently occur, we will enumerate 
some of their conditions, and the causes which produce them. While the 
patient may not detect any difference between functional and organic dis- 
orders, he may be able to discover a connection between the action of the 
heart and some improper habit or condition of the body, the changing of 
which will perhaps be the means of removing the difficulty. Before pass- 
ing to these remarks, the reader is advised to read what is said on " The 
Pulse," in the chapter on Signs of Health and Disease, and all the fore- 
going pages of the present chapter. 

There may be persistent increased action, the pulse being quite regu- 
lar, but ranging from 1 20 to 130 per minute, and continuing for weeks; 
then followed by an intermission, causing the sufferer in the meantime 
great anxiety and fear of organic disease of the heart, though it may not be 
affected by exercise. 

Again, paroxysmal throbbing comes on suddenly, without apparent 
cause, but with violent beating of the heart, and a change in its regularitv 
or rhythm. The patient has a feeling as though death were impending, 
which increases the trouble, as does also even the slightest motion. 

Another form is irregularity and intermission in the beats, without 
increased force, the heart often being very feeble in its action. Such svmp- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 163 

toms are terrifying, and the patient feels as if the slightest movement would 
cause death from the heart ceasing to perform its function. At the same 
time, this intermittent character may have existed from birth, and be no 
occasion for anxiety. 

The causes of functional disorder are plethora, or too rich and too 
much blood; anaemia, or a deficient amount of blood; nervous disorders; 
dyspepsia, and gout. 

Plethora overtaxes the heart, making it irritable, and thus increasing 
its action. Palpitation is usually the first symptom manifest, and causes 
anxiety. It usually occurs in men who have led an active life and have 
changed to luxurious, indolent and sedentary habits, and in women who 
tend to fat, and take little exercise. 

Anaemia is due to a loss of the fluids of the body, and rarely arises 
without producing some disturbance in the heart's action. It occurs more 
often in women than men, the conditions of their sex rendering them more 
liable to losses of this character. We find, in addition to the functional 
heart-disorder, coldness of the extremities, headache, neuralgia, and con- 
stant dread of organic disease of the heart. The slightest exertion causes 
palpitation and difficult breathing, and the countenance becomes anxious 
and morbid from the constant dread. 

Derangements of the nervous system cause disordered action of the 
heart. These may occur without the existence of anaemia or plethora, and 
may have their origin in any of a multitude of influences. Hysteria, 
excesses of various kinds, uterine disorders, the use of tobacco, tea, coffee 
and opium, dyspepsia in its various forms, mental anxiety, constipation, and 
the presence of gas in the stomach, are all causes of such affections. 

Gout renders people liable to functional derangements of the heart, 
presumably because of the presence of lithic acid in the blood. This acid 
acts as an irritant on the nerves which go to the heart, and thus causes an 
increase in its action. These fits of palpitation generally precede the 
swelling of the parts, and subside when this condition takes place. 

Functional disorder of the heart may also have its origin in low states 
of the system after fevers and other exhausting diseases; excessive muscular 
exercise; great excitement and fatigue; certain deformities of the chest. 
In the foregoing pages the reader will not only ascertain that very man) 
common habits and actions lead to a great variety of the disorders which 
cause much anxiety, but will find the means of avoiding or correcting a 
large proportion of them. 

Palpitation is one of the common symptoms of heart-trouble, and occurs 
in organic as well as functional disorders. The following table will aid 
one in telling the difference: 



104 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



TABLE OF THE CHIEF DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ORGANIC AND FUNC- 
TIONAL DISEASES OF THE HEART. 



ORGANIC. 

1. Palpitation usually comes on slowly and 
insidiously. 

2. Palpitation or distressed action, though 
more marked at one time than another, 
is constant. 

3. Percussion elicits increased extent and 
degree of dullness in the region of the 
heart, 

4 Livtdity of the lips and cheeks, con- 
gested countenance, and dropsical appear- 
ance of the lower extremities, are often 
present. 

5. The action of the heart is not necessa- 
rily quickened. 

6. Palpitation often not much complained of 
by the patient but occasionally attended 
with severe fain extending to tk* left 
shoulder and arm. (See Angina Pectoris.) 

7. Palpitation is increased by exercise, stim- 
ulants and tonics, but is relieved by rest. 

S. Is more common in the male than the 
female* 



FUNCTIONAL. 



i . Palpitation generally sets in suddenly. 

2. Palpitation is not constant, having per- 
fect intermissions. 



3. Dullness in the region of the heart is 
not extended bevond the natural limits. 



4. There is no lividity of the lips and 
cheeks, countenance often greenish, and, 
except in extreme cases, there is no 
dropsical appearance. 

5. The action of the heart is generally 
quickened. 

6. Palpitation much complained of bv the 
patient, often with pain in tlie left side. 



7. Palpitation is increased by sedentarv 
occupations, but reliezed by moderate ex- 
ercise. 

S Is more common in the female than the 
male. 



While such affections of the heart as we have named are usuallv not 
attended directly with bad results, there are cases in which death has taken 
place, as in angina pectoris and neuralgia. 

People who suffer from disturbances of the heart can rarelv tell the 
nature of the trouble, and only in those cases in which some condition or 
habit of the body is known to be the direct cause can one tell whether the 
disorder is functional or organic. It is, therefore, of the utmost import- 
ance that, in all cases where there is a doubt as to the real condition, a 
physician be consulted. 

People are generally more anxious and alarmed about a nervous dis- 
order of the heart than if it were organic. Its constant or paroxvsmal dis- 
ordered action worries and annoys them, and they cannot help thinking of 
the heart; and the more one fixes the mind upon that organ, fearing it is 
diseased, the worse it acts. 

There is a marked correspondence between functional disorder of the 
heart and the same condition of the lungs. In both, the sufferer is anxious 
and loses hope. If, on the contrary, the heart or lungs be structurally dis- 
eased, the patient is calm and hopeful, and never seems to appreciate his 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 105 

real condition. By bearing these facts in mind, one can decide quite cer- 
tainly upon the nature of the disorder and its real danger. 

Treatment. — This consists in palliative and curative measures, the 
former to relieve the immediate distress, the latter to prevent a return and 
remove the cause. 

Aconite is needed if the disturbance is the result of fright ; palpitation 

from physical excitement and mental emotion; when occurring in a 

plethoric person. Ignatia, if from sudden grief, nervous disorders or hysteria. 

Scutellaria. — Paroxysms of palpitation from inordinate excitement, 

coming on in a spasmodic form. 

[Convallaria (lily of the valley) is superior to any other known remedy 
for functional palpitation of the heart, a single dose of ten drops often 
arresting it in less than half an hour. — Hale.] 

In cessation of the heart's action, stimulants should be used at once, 
such as brandy or other alcoholic liquor, camphor, amyl nitrite or ammo- 
nia, aided by the mustard foot-bath, mustard plasters or hot water over the 
heart with brisk rubbing of the extremities, the patient lying down. 

When the difficulty is the result of plethora, this habit of the body 
should be relieved by a proper diet. All rich and stimulating food should 
be avoided, and small meals be taken, coupled with active exercise. Vera- 
trum viride, half-drop doses in water three or four times a day, will help to 
remove the plethoric condition, if it be continued some time. Bromide of 
ammonia, two or three grains after each meal, will have a like effect. 

Anaemia should receive a contrary treatment, and articles of diet 
which tend to enrich the blood should be used. Active outdoor exercise, 
in localities free from malarial influences, should be taken. Ferrum metal- 
licum in some form will be of service, though some cases, as those of a 
nervous origin, w T ill not be benefited by its use. It is applicable in those 
cases which are the result of faulty assimilation of the food. There are 
many preparations of iron, but the one mentioned will be the most often 
useful. When the anaemia is the result of nervous prostration, the hypo- 
phosphite of lime, soda or potassa, phosphoric acid, nux vomica, ignatia and 
strychnia will be found useful. 

[The most useful remedy I have ever used in heart- weakness, with defi- 
ciency of blood, is a preparation from my own formula, and manufactured 
by Chapman, Green & Co., Chicago. It is named " Syrup Nitrogenized 
Iron, Digitalis and Wild Cherry." — Hale.] 

When the irritation is due to a derangement of the digestion, atten- 
tion should be given to this function, and the reader will refer to the chapter 
devoted to these disorders. 

If the difficulty arises from uterine disturbance, the directions upon 



166 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

diseases of this character, as given in the chapter on the Maid and the 
Wife, the Mother and the Babe, will assist in selecting the proper 
remedies. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE HEART. 

This disease resembles pneumonia, or inflammation of the lungs, so 
closely that it is difficult for a person unacquainted with it to distinguish the 
difference. It is indicated by violent pain in the left side of the chest, near 
the heart, with painful, agonizing pressure in that part; difficult breathing; 
quick, feeble, irregular pulse; high fever; fits of fainting, and great anxiety. 
Distinguishing features in this disorder are that the pain is confined to one 
spot; there is more oppression and less cough; and the patient can lie 
down more easily than in pneumonia. The surface of the body is not so 
hot; the hands and feet are usually cold. 

Treatment. — Happily this disease is of very rare occurrence. The 
treatment is much the same as that prescribed for pneumonia, and the 
reader is referred to the article on that subject, the accessory measures 
applying in both diseases. 

HEART-CRAMP.— ANGINA PECTORIS. 

This disorder, usually occurring in middle or advanced life, comes on 
with a fit of severe, acute pain, which centers in the heart and extends over 
the chest into the shoulder and arm. There will be an agonizing sense of 
anxiety; faintness, and fear of instant death; palpitation; difficult breath- 
ing, so that, if walking, the patient is obliged to stop and cling for support 
to the first object which is presented. The face is cold, and covered with a 
clammy sweat, the feet and hands cold, and sometimes dark-colored. These 
conditions may terminate in a few moments, or last several hours, and recur 
with increased severity, till at last one proves fatal. 

The causes are diseased heart or arteries, weakening of the muscular 
coating of the heart from deposits of fat, the heart's action being thus im- 
paired. It may be brought on by over-exertion, flatulent distension of the 
stomach, mental excitement, or frightful dreams. 

Treatment. — The treatment must be under medical care. Until 
such help is obtained, during a paroxysm apply a warm bran or mustard 
poultice to the chest, and warmth to the extremities; give frequent but 
small doses of brandy or some other stimulant, keeping the patient quiet, 
and not allowing him to talk. 

Aconite may be given when there is a great sense of suffocation, with 
difficult breathing. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 107 

Arsenicum. — Extremely difficult breathing; marked debility; pale, 
haggard face; feeble and irregular pulse; a dread of immediate death. 
This remedy will also be found useful in warding off attacks. 

[All persons subject to heart-pang should carry some " pearls of amyl 
nitrite," or a vial filled with cotton saturated with fifteen or twenty drops of 
amyl. Upon the first appearance of the pain, the medicine should be 
rapidly inhaled until the distress is relieved. — Hale.] 

Care should be taken with the food, and none but what is easily di- 
gested and nourishing be used. All sudden or active exercise or exertion 
must be avoided. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE VEINS. 

This appears in one of two forms, either as an inflammation of a single 
veinj as the result of a cold, which disappears without serious trouble in 
many cases, or as an affection of a considerable number of veins, which 
ends in suppuration. It is quite rare in its occurrence, and results from me- 
chanical injuries, the taking of a cold, excess of muscular exertion, and con- 
finement of women. In the last-named case, it is known as fhlegmatia 
dolens, or milk-leg, since it comes on usually with the flow of milk into the 
breasts. The disease is sometimes extremely dangerous, especially when 
affecting the large veins near the heart. Its favorite locality is in the thigh, 
from w T hich it often implicates the whole limb. 

The symptoms are not always well marked. When the affected ves- 
sels are near the surface, they may be felt with the finger as hard, rigid 
cords, sometimes knotted, with a reddish line following their course. This 
discoloration becomes more diffused as the disease progresses, the surround- 
ing parts growing darker, sometimes almost of a purple hue. The tissues in- 
volved swell, and often pit on pressure. The pain is intense, and is of a 
burning, smarting nature; there is loss of appetite, with more or less fever, 
and chills if suppuration ensues; the skin is hot and dry; nausea often sets 
in, and sometimes vomiting; constipation may come on, and the urine be 
scanty and high-colored. Excessive prostration and delirium are usually 
accompaniments of the severe form. 

Treatment. — The treatment should be conducted with extreme 
caution, and with skilled medical advice. Until such attendance can be se- 
cured, the patient should be kept quiet on a bed, and if there is much painj 
a lotion of aconite should be applied. When the severity of the pain sub- 
sides, cover the parts with cloths wet in the extract of hamamelis, or Pond's 
Extract, and cover them with oil-silk. 

Aconite is needed for high fever and hot, dry skin. 



168 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Arnica, if the disorder results from an injury, may be alternated with 
aconite. 

Belladonna is indicated by delirium ; dark-red and slimy surface; red, 
dry tongue. [Hamamelis is a specific for this disease. — Hale.] 

The diet in the beginning should be light and unstimulating. When 
suppuration takes place, highly-nourishing food is needed. 

ENLARGED VEINS VARICOSIS. 

Wnen the coats of the veins become weakened by lack of nutrition, by 
pressure from obstructed flow of blood, and like means, they become di- 
lated to such an extent that the valves fail to support the blood on its way 
to the heart. From this, the vessels become distended, and in many cases 
burst and form a fine network, giving a blue appearance to the tissue sur- 
rounding them. The difficulty is mainly confined to the lower extremities, 
except when it takes the form of piles. 

The affected veins are tortuous, knotted, of a dull-leaden hue, often 
discoloring the parts, and producing considerable swelling of the limb. 
When the horizontal position is maintained for any considerable time, the 
blood flows out of the veins, and they are greatly diminished in size. 

Anything which obstructs the circulation of the blood induces this dis- 
order, as tight shoes or stays, a tumor, pregnancy (the most common 
cause), stubborn constipation, and hereditary predisposition. 

This condition causes some aching pain upon walking any distance, or 
upon long standing, and may be attended with bleeding from bursting of 
the veins, or with ulcers from imperfect circulation and want of nutrition of 
the skin. 

Treatment. — The best means of relief is from moderate compres- 
sion, by means of a closely-fitting bandage, or the elastic stocking. The 
pressure should be quite gentle and uniform, be applied in the morning, 
before the patient puts the foot to the floor, and be continued through the da v. 
Where a single vein or a small portion of it is affected, a strip of adhesive 
plaster applied firmly over that portion will afford prompt relief. The 
limb should be bathed every morning, and rubbed dry before applving the 
bandage. 

Hamamelis. — This remedy should be given internallv, and also applied 
externally in the form of a lotion, one part of the strong tincture, or of 
Pond's Extract, to two parts water. Wrap the parts in a compress wet in 
the lotion and cover with oil-silk, placing a bandage over all. This should 
be worn during the night. 

If any portion of the surface about the varicose veins should become 



MAN THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. Kj ( J 

tender, excoriated or broken, adhesive plaster should be applied firmly 
drawing the edges of the sore together; this will often prevent the forma- 
tion of ulcers. 

ANEURISM. 

Aneurism consists in the dilatation of a portion of an artery, and 
usually occurs in the large one in the upper part of the chest, which leads 
from the heart. It may, however, have its seat in any part of the system, 
especially in the base of the brain, in the latter case often bursting the 
artery, and producing apoplexy. It occurs more frequently in men than in 
women. 

The common cause of aneurism is a degenerated state of the coats of 
the artery, usually as a result of a low state of the system. It is some- 
times a consequence of an injury. It may be distinguished from an abscess 
or other swelling by the marked pulsation of the artery which may be felt 
in its enlargement. 

Treatment. — This is often of a surgical character. Those cases which 
are beyond surgical means may be benefited by aconite or veratrum viride. 

Arnica, when an injury is the cause, may be alternated with either of 
the two remedies just named. 

Phosphorus is recommended as a constitutional remedy to prevent 
further degeneration of the coats of the vessels. When the disease attacks 
the aorta in the chest, it is desirable that the patient lie down. The diet 
should be light and unstimulating. 




CHAPTER VI. 



THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 



ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 



: N the act of breathing, the air enters either directly through the mouth, 
or through the nasal passage which leads from the nose to the back 
part of the mouth. This first step in respiration is a matter of 
^p frequent and familiar observation, but a study of several organs is in- 
volved in an understanding of the functions by which the voice is formed, 
the blood purified, the health assured, and life itself 
sustained, by means of the air which surrounds us. 

THE LARYNX. 

Passing through the throat, the inspired air en- 
ters the larynx, which may be described as a cup 
of cartilage. Across the top of this are stretched 
the vocal cords, in which are 
caused the vibrations by the 
air from the lungs that pro- 
duce the voice and its marvel- 
ous modulations. 

THE EPIGLOTTIS. 





30- 



d, Epiglottis, e e, Vocal 
"Cords. 



The top of this 

cup is also sup- 
plied with a valve, 

or lid, called the 

epiglottis, which 

opens and shuts 

during breathing. 

It also closes up 

against the base of the tongue in the act of swallowing, so that food and 
drink may pass over the top of the larynx and enter the gullet. If this 
lid is lifted during eating, by a sudden breath, laugh or cough, some 

170 



35- The Upper Portion is the Larynx; below 

the Larynx is a Vertical Section of the 

Windpipe, which divides into the 

large and small Bronchi, or 

Air-Tubes. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 



171 



substance may be admitted beneath it and cause violent coughing and 
distress. 

THE WINDPIPE AND BRONCHIAL TUBES. 

At the lower end, the larynx draws together to form the upper part of 
the windpipe, or trachea. This is a firm tube, composed of rings of car- 
tilage, which passes down the front part of the neck into the chest, while 
the gullet, or oesophagus, runs down behind it. It divides into two branches, 
called the large bronchi, or bronchial tubes, one entering either lung, in 
which it divides and subdivides into other branches of ever-diminishing 

size, known as the small bronchi, 
or bronchial tubes. The latter 
finally terminate in delicate clusters 
of minute air-cells. 

THE LUNGS. 

Within the chest are the lungs, 




37. Organs of the Chest. 

The Upper portion shows the Larynx and Windpipe. 
A, Lungs. £>, Pulmonary Artery. B, Heart. 




Magnified Air-Cells. 



c, Limit of Bronchial Tube. 

a, a, b, b, Two Groups of Air-Cells. 



two large lobes with an average capacity, in the adult, of about five pints. 
They are composed of a light, spongy substance as their basis, the bron- 
chial tubes and air-cells mentioned above, and a complicated net- work of 
blood-vesicles running in all directions through the whole. The lungs 
envelope the back and sides of the heart, with which they occupy nearly 
all the cavity of the chest. 

Entirely surrounding the lungs is a delicate membrane, called the 
pleura, which works smoothly upon a similar membrane, the pericardium, 
enveloping the heart. The air-tubes and cells are also lined with a mucous 



172 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

membrane, and all of these lining and enveloping membranes are moistened, 
or lubricated, by their own secretions. 

Upon the membrane lining the smallest air-tubes are fine, hair-like ele- 
vations, or cilia, which are of fascinating interest. The microscope reveals 
the fact that they keep up a constant waving motion from within outward, 
by which, it is plausibly thought, dust and other fine matters, that may be 
making their way into the lungs, are swept back as by little soft brushes. 
At the same time, the air is fanned out of the deep recesses of the lungs on 
the sides of the tubes, the vacuum so produced in the air-cells being filled 
by a current passing in between the outgoing ones. 

THE DIAPHRAGM. 

Between the chest and abdomen is the diaphragm, a thin, dome-like 
partition which, in its normal position, points upward into the chest. When 
it contracts, it is drawn downward, leaving a space in the cavity of the 
chest. By the action of other muscles, the ribs are lifted and spread out, 




39. Cilia. 

thus still more enlarging the chest. The lungs expand to fill the empty 
space, and air rushes into them. This is " taking a breath," or an inspira- 
tion. Very soon the diaphragm relaxes and the ribs are brought down, 
pressing against the lungs and expelling the air. This is an expiration, 
and, with the inspiration, completes a resfiiratioiz. 

In a state of health, there should be from fifteen to twenty respirations 
in a minute, commonly seventeen or eighteen, that is, about one-fourth as 
many as the beats of the heart, or pulse. Any substantial departure from 
this, whether above or below, should be taken as evidence of some disorder. 

THE OFFICES OF BREATHING. 

By referring to the description of the circulation of the blood, in the 
anatomy and physiology of Chapter V, the reader will see that impure 
blood is gathered from the body into the right side of the heart, and is 
thence sent to the lungs. In the minute blood-vessels which run every- 
where in the midst of the air-cells in the lungs, it comes in contact with 



MAN — tup: organs of respiration. 173 

the pure air taken in by respiration, draws off oxygen, the life-giving ele- 
ment, gives off poisonous carbonic acid and worn-out tissues, and, in its 
purified state, goes to the left side of the heart, whence it is driven on to 
rebuild the waste in all parts of the body. Impure fluids of the body are 
also expelled by respiration, through the breath. The purification of the 
blood and expulsion of worn-out and deleterious matters are the offices of 
respiration. 

COUGH. 

Cough, being a symptom rather than a disease, may accompany a variety 
of diseases, and arises from many conditions. Oftentimes its character indi- 
cates the condition which produces it, and, as such, affords many signs to 
guide one in distinguishing the disease. 

When cough is the result of irregularity in the digestive functions, 
from chronic derangement of the lining membrane of the stomach, from 
the presence of some irritating matter in the bowels, or from intestinal 
worms, these conditions should first be removed ; and if the trouble still 
continues from having engendered positive irritation of the respiratory 
tract, then treatment should be directed to these parts. 

If cough attends some evident trouble in the respiratory tract, it may 
arise from congestion, inflammation, catarrh or cold, the deposit of tuber- 
cular matter in the air-cells, or nervous irritation, causing spasmodic con- 
traction of the air-tubes. 

A short dry cough is an evidence of some acute inflammatory affec- 
tion, and when accompanied with sneezing, watery and inflamed eyes, fever, 
and nausea, it usually indicates measles. 

Painful, hacking cough, with stitching pain in the chest, accompanied 
with short, quick, difficult breathing, and fever, points to inflammation of 
the lungs. 

A loose, rattling cough, with inability to raise anything, with constant 
titillation, is an evidence of inflammation of the back part of the throat, 
upper portion of the windpipe, or bronchi, and is usually of a catarrhal 
character. 

Foreign bodies in the throat, as a hair, fish-bone, tumor, or enlarged 
palate, may produce cough, usually accompanied with an effort to swallow 
the offending substance. 

A tendency to cough during or after any exertion, rapid motion, speak- 
ing, laughing, excitement of whatever nature, or derangements of the sys- 
tem in general, denotes a lung-affection, and usually one of an organic 
character. 

Chronic dry cough, with difficult breathing, and induced by the least 



174 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

exertion, accompanied with stitching in the chest, and an increased tem- 
perature of the body during the day, or at some special time thereof, is an 
evidence of tubercular deposit in the lungs; and when this increase of tem- 
perature is persistent, with loss of flesh, it is positive proof that such condi- 
tion exists. 

Never neglect a cough of any kind. 

NASAL CATARRH, OR COLD IN THE HEAD. 

The common affection known by the above terms consists in an inflam- 
mation of the mucous membrane lining the air-passages of the head. The 
membrane, at first dry, afterward gives out a watery discharge, usually 
attended with general lassitude, slight shiverings, weight in the head, 
sneezing, and watery eyes. There may be thirst, more or less fever, pain in 
the limbs, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, the discharge 
becomes thicker, yellowish or grayish, and with this the symptoms soon sub- 
side under a vigorous condition of the system or judicious treatment. 

The affection may extend to the throat, bronchial tubes, or to the lungs, 
causing sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, and the like, or may result in 
croup, erysipelas, toothache, neuralgia, diarrhoea, and either of many other 
diseases, a description of which will be given hereafter. Catarrh may, from 
repeated attacks or neglect, become chronic, and is at times very persistent, 
and sometimes serious. 

Treatment. — This consists in both local and internal medication, the 
disease being one of those in which the patient's own endeavors are relied 
upon to a great extent. Persistence and patience, especially in the chronic 
form, are necessary, and through them only, in many cases, is a cure effected. 

An essential auxiliary in this course is cleanliness. The folds of the 
mucous membrane furnish receptacles for the deposit of the secretion 
which, from its acrid and irritating character, causes a continuation of the 
inflammation. This should be thoroughly removed by some simple wash 
which will change the character of the secretions, and be so used as to avoid 
any irritation from the application. The snuffs, medicines, douches, inhalers 
and the multitude of other appliances which are guaranteed to cure, 
should be avoided, and, in cases which have become chronic, a physician 
who has both skill and time should be consulted. A cure is to be resolutely 
sought, for statistics show that seventy-five out of a hundred cases of con- 
sumption arise from neglected or improperly treated colds. 

The best instrument for making local applications to the nose and back 
part of the mouth and throat, and for cleansing the parts, is an atomizer. 
In selecting one, pains should be taken to secure that which is most easily 
managed and has the indorsement of a competent judge. Such an instru- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF • RESPIRATION. 175 

ment is certainly far preferable to douches, as the latter are now made. A 
weak solution of either salt and water, potassa nitrate, hydrastin, or sangui- 
naria, may be used in the atomizer once or twice a day. If the breath is 
very offensive and the discharge foul, relief will be afforded by the use of a 
solution made on this formula: 

Carbolic acid, 20 per cent, solution, 10 drops. 
Pure glycerine, 1 teaspoonful. 

Water, 6 teaspoonfuls. 

Mix. 
Another good solution is this: 

Permanganate potassa, 2 grains. 

Water, 8 teaspoonfuls. 

Mix. 
As the mucous membrane in the different stages of acute and chronic 
catarrh is the same, unless there has been ulceration or destruction, and as the 
medicines necessary for a cure would apply in both, it will not be necessary 
to separate the two forms, but it will suffice to give the indications for the 
remedies applicable to both. 

Aconite. — In the commencement, for dry state of the membrane 
from dry, cold winds; and for fever. 

Arsenicum. — Burning, corroding, watery discharge, with sneezing. 
Belladonna. — Dull pain in the forehead ; redness of the eyes ; dry con- 
dition of the nose; red and sore throat. 

Mercurius. — Dropping of water from the nostrils; nose swollen, red 
and sore ; pain ; catarrh extending to the ears, worse in a warm room ; when 
the catarrh is of an epidemic form. 

Nux vomica. — Nose dry, with stuffy feelings; discharge thick; head- 
ache ; constipation . 

Iodine. — Chronic form with offensive discharge; nose red and painful; 
scrofulous system. 

Pulsatilla. — Thick, yellow, greenish discharge; loss of smell, appetite 
and taste; better in the fresh air, and worse in a warm room. 

During the acute stage, medicine should be given every one, two or 
three hours; but when the affection has become chronic, once or twice a 
day is sufficient. 

SORE THROAT. 

Ordinary sore throat is generally caused by cold, and usually attended 
with discharge from the nose and slight fever. The throat is inflamed, 
having a bright-red color, and may or may not be ulcerated. Swallowing 
is painful; otherwise there is usually not much pain. 



176 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Belladonna should be given when the throat is highly 
inflamed, feels raw, and is of a deep-red color. 

Aconite. — When there are considerable dryness, roughness and heat in 
the throat, with general fever. When the attacK is very severe, aconite 
and belladonna may be given in alternation. 

Mercurius. — Throat swollen, very painful on swallowing, and filled 
with mucus; pains extend to the ear; discharge from the ear. 

Relief will often be given by a piece of linen or flannel thoroughly 
wrung out in cold water, folded in two or three thicknesses and wrapped 
around the throat, being then covered with two or three folds of dry flannel. 
It should be applied only on going to bed. 

QUINSY—TONSILLITIS. 

When an inflammation arises in the tonsils we have what is generally 
known as quinsy, or tonsillitis, affecting either one or both tonsils. The 
tonsil is much swollen and very red, as also are the surrounding parts ; head- 
ache is not uncommon; there is usually some fever, and it may run very 
high; swallowing is more painful and difficult than in simple sore throat. 
The disorder may , result in abscess of the tonsil or subside before that 
stage is reached. 

Treatment. — Aconite is needed at first for much fever; headache; 
stinging pains in the throat. 

Mercurius is indicated, in a later stage, by much swollen throat; great 
quantity of saliva; foul breath; ulceration of the mouth and throat. 

Hepar has much efficacy after matter has formed. It hastens suppura- 
tion, lessens the engorgement, and, if continued, eradicates the predisposition 
to the disorder. 

Nux vomica is especially useful in many cases, since this disease is so 
often due to deranged digestion. Cases arising from this cause, and marked 
by constipation, dull headache and coated tongue, will be relieved by 
this remedy. 

The throat-compress may be used as for sore throat. For a severe 
attack, a hot poultice may be applied, extending up to each ear. 

ENLARGEMENT OF THE TONSILS. 

The tonsils may be affected by a chronic enlargement which not only 
causes much discomfort, but also has a bad effect upon the organs of breath- 
ing by obstructing the entrance of the air into the lungs, especially during 
sleep, To this is often due the choking, rattling breathing of children. Its 
subjects are those who are of a lymphatic or scrofulous temperament, dis- 
posed to glandular enlargement and disordered digestion. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 177 

Treatment. — The treatment was formerly surgical, in the main, the 
removal of the tonsil being deemed the best method of cure. Happily this 
pernicious and unnecessary practice has given place to a wiser and better 
method. The first step is a resort to measures for toning up the body to 
render it less susceptible to atmospheric changes, which are one of the prin- 
cipal exciting causes. Other conditions favorable to the development of the 
affection need also to be corrected by a general or special regimen, as de- 
ranged digestion, taking cold, and frequent attacks of quinsy, or acute inflam- 
mation of the tonsils. The vigor of the body is promoted by outdoor exer- 
cise, cool salt-water bathing and nutritious diet, the patient meanwhile guard- 
ing against colds and indigestion. 

Baryta carbonica is useful for children of a pale waxy skin, who are 
affected with the enlargement, and are disposed to frequent attacks of acute 
inflammation of the tonsils. Hepar is also adapted to persons disposed to the 
acute affection, and to those who are of a scrofulous tendency and subject to 
catarrh of the nose and throat. These remedies should be given once or 
twice a day and may be continued for several months. Patience will doubt- 
less be requisite. 

Cod-liver oil, a food rather than a medicine, will be found a valuable 
adjunct in most cases, and there are few who will not be benefited by it. 
Care should, however, be taken not to administer it when the stomach 
fails to properly assimilate it. It is best borne when given in small quanti- 
ties, a teaspoonful or less after the morning and noon meals. 

The local treatment consists in making direct applications of lotions 
and washes to the tonsils. Though this, as well as the internal treatment, 
is best done by a physician, it is given here because this ailment is not often 
under such care. One of the best local remedies is made as follows: 
Tincture of iodine, i drachm. 
Glycerine, x / 2 ounce. 

Mix. 
Make use of this lotion to paint the tonsils once a day, by means of a camel's- 
hair brush. Another good application, to be used in the same way, is made 
of one drachm of tannic acid to one ounce of glycerine, well mixed. Spray- 
ing the throat with a steam or other atomizer is very beneficial. Hydras- 
tia may be used in this way once or twice daily, a half-teaspoonful of fluid 
hydrastia being put into an atomizer half-full of warm water. Five grains 
of the crystal bichromate of potassa in an atomizer half-full of water, used 
as directed for hydrastia, will be serviceable. A persistent use of these 
measures, with a careful observance of laws for the promotion of the gen- 
eral health, will render the knife unnecessary in this common and trouble- 
some disorder. 
12 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



CROUP. 



Membranous croup is a disease of small children particularly, though 
it may occasionally attack adults. It is distinctly characterized by 
difficult breathing of a peculiar crowing sound, with hoarse cough. It 
usually begins as a catarrh, with fever and hoarseness, lasting two or three 
days before the child is thought to be in any danger. After a day or two, 
and usually at night, the symptoms become worse, the feyer increases, the 
child has spells of suffocation, the cough and breathing have a ringing 
sound, and the voice is suppressed to a whisper. This lasts from a few min- 
utes to an hour or more, when the child has relief for several hours. The 
greatest danger is from suffocation. Death may occur in two or three days. 
If not, the symptoms may gradually become better. 

Treatment. — A physician should be consulted early, even before the 
symptoms have much increased, for the disease is one of rapid progress and 
great fatality when fairly seated. The child should be kept warm ; the air 
should be moist, and can be kept so by constantly boiling a kettle of water 
in the room, to which eight or ten drops of iodine may be added with 
benefit. 

Aconite should be given at first, for fever; cough; and for the 
spasm of the larynx which causes suffocation. It may be continued either 
alone or in alternation with some other remedy. 

Spongia or sanguinaria, given in alternation with aconite, will often 
control the symptoms better than aconite alone. Give kali bichromicum if 
the above does not relieve, and there is a deposit of membrane, the throat 
being red and inflamed, and the symptoms worse toward morning, with 
thick yellow fur on the tongue. Hepar is good when the cough becomes 
loose; and in latter stages of the disease. Tartarus emeticus is indicated 
by loose, rattling cough, with difficulty in raising the phlegm. 

If there be great danger of suffocation, and the breathing difficult and 
loud, put five or six drops of tincture of iodine in a half-pint of boiling 
water and allow the child to inhale the vapor until relief is given, repeating 
this as it may be subsequently required by a recurrence of these symptoms. 
The vapor arising from slaking lime has a wonderful effect in this disease 
when the deposit has formed. It dissolves the membrane, lessens the irrita- 
tion, and thus prevents paroxysms of suffocation. It is best used as follows: 
Make a tent of bed-clothing or other material around and over the bed in 
which the child is lying; put therein a pail or other vessel containing a few 
pieces of fresh lime, and pour on the latter a small quantity of boiling- 
water, replenishing the water as it is needed. This treatment may be con- 
tinued for some hours, if need be. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. ] 7 ( J 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LARYNX. 

Laryngitis, or inflammation of the upper portion of the windpipe, is 
not an uncommon disease. It is not dangerous, generally; but may be 
when there is much swelling, as it occasions suffocation. It usually comes 
on with hoarseness; tickling sensation in the windpipe; hacking cough; fre- 
quent attempts to clear the throat; difficulty in swallowing. If the attack 
is very severe, the cough will be painful; there will be frequent breathing; 
loss of voice above a whisper; fever; flushed face; at times, symptoms of 
suffocation. This disorder resembles croup very much in its symptoms. 

Treatment. — Aconite should be given in the earliest part of the dis- 
ease, when the fever-symptoms are prominent; but, after the first day or 
two, it is not so useful. Spongia is indicated when the cough is hoarse, hol- 
low, and comes on at intervals, especially at night, with little or no expec- 
toration. Hepar is useful for symptoms similar to those for spongia, but 
there is considerable expectoration, and the cough is loose but hoarse. 
Hoarseness and weakness of voice caused by singing or much speaking is 
generally relieved by hepar. Phosphorus for hoarse, dry cough; constant 
hacking; delicate constitution. Mucilaginous drinks, such as gum-arabic 
water, or syrup of tolu, are admissible, and often give great relief. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Bronchitis is of two general forms, acute and chronic, which differ 
somewhat in their character, as well as in their duration. Acute bronchitis 
is an acute inflammation of the air- tubes of the lungs, greater danger at- 
tending such affection of the smaller tubes than the larger ones. When 
the large and middle-sized tubes alone are affected, there will be a tickling 
sensation in the throat; soreness or pain under the breast-bone; breathing 
slightly oppressed and somewhat hurried; fits of coughing; and slight fe- 
ver. The expectoration is at first clear mucus and frothy, changing to a 
yellow or greenish phlegm; and the cough becomes looser, and continues, 
with expectoration, for some time after the other symptoms have subsided. 

Aged people and young children are more susceptible to an inflammation 
of the smaller tubes than are the middle-aged. The frequency of an 
attack, and the danger of suffocation which attends it, make it one of the 
most important diseases of early childhood. The first symptoms resemble 
those named above, but circulation soon becomes more obstructed; the 
lips and cheeks become livid; the breathing more hurried, and the 
pulse more rapid, while the temperature may not be very high. 
There is a great tendency to prostration, and to suffocation from the 
want of power to expectorate. The disease, if favorable, begins to 



180 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

decline between the fourth and eighth days, the breathing becomes easier and 
the expectoration thicker. When not favorable, children generally die in 
convulsions from suffocation, and older people with delirium and deep sleep. 

Treatment. — This disease, being of an inflammatory character, is 
usually ushered in with more or less fever. Aconite will be found useful, 
in the commencement, for high fever; dry skin; restlessness; when the dis- 
order is the result of exposure to cold or wet. Belladonna is indicated by 
hot skin, with inclination to perspire ; soreness ; when the child cries out in 
coughing, and starts in its sleep. Bryonia is of great importance when 
there is much soreness; child cries when moved; breathing short and 
catching; cough tight, and worse through the day. Give hepar for loose 
cough, worse in the morning, and after the preceding remedies. 

Tartarus emeticus, for paroxysm of suffocative cough, with loose expec- 
toration; wheezing; the whole chest affected. This remedy is particularly 
adapted to old people. 

In acute bronchitis, the diet should be light and limited to such articles 
as gum-water, barley-water, gruel, beef-tea and jelly. Water should be 
given freely, and many times it produces profuse perspiration when drunk 
in considerable quantities. During the latter effects the patient should be 
covered with thick blankets. 

To prevent repeated attacks in those who take cold easily, cold bath- 
ing in the morning is highly beneficial, and, in cold weather, a chest pro- 
tector should be worn. Care should be taken by people of delicate consti- 
tutions, and the room should be warm when a bath is taken. The beard 
worn full on the face and neck is often the means of curing men subject to 
this disease. 

PNEUMONIA. 

This is an inflammation in the lungs, and is of much importance, 
owing to its frequency as well as to the vital character of the organs attacked. 
It is most liable to occur during the ages from twenty to forty years; old 
people are less liable to it, and children under five and six years of age are 
seldom affected with it. It may attack both lungs, or but one; the former 
condition occurs in about one out of eight cases, and in the latter the ri^ht 
lung is more often involved than the left. It generally begins with a chill, 
which is at times violent, and is followed by high fever and great thirst. 
The skin is hot and dry, the face flushed, the pulse quickened, and ex- 
tremely rapid breathing is peculiarly characteristic of pneumonia. Very 
soon the patient has pain in the region of the shoulder-blade and under the 
breast-bone, dull at times, sometimes quite sharp. A short, frequent cough 
sets in, and lasts throughout the disease. The expectoration is also charac- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 181 

tenstic of the disease, and at first is simply mucus, but becomes sticky and 
mixed with blood, which gives it a rusty or reddish-brown appearance. 
Later on, the amount of blood raised may be considerable. Headache is 
common; delirium may be present, and generally indicates danger. 
The urine is scanty and high-colored, and has a heavy deposit, resembling 
brick-dust. As the patient begins to recover, the cough increases, the 
expectoration is in greater quantities, and loses its tenacity and rusty color. 
The breathing becomes slower, the patient rapidly recovers, and, at the end 
of two weeks, all symptoms of the disease have usually disappeared. Pneu- 
monia may be complicated by symptoms of typhoid fever, when it is called 
typhoid-pneumonia. The inflammation very often extends to the pleura, or 
covering of the lung, causing a sharp, stitching pain, which is so common 
in pleurisy. This complication is generally called pleuro-pneumonia. 

The causes are severe or long-continued exertion; over-fatigue; pro- 
longed cold or wet; lying on damp ground; exposure to cold or wet wind 
for several hours; getting heated at work or play, and sitting on the damp 
ground until chilly; the chill, operating on the exhausted body, causes 
extreme congestion, or flooding of blood in the lungs, the circulation of 
which has been weakened by the previous violent breathing. 

Treatment. — Aconite, at the commencement for the congestion. 
Happily the introduction of this remedy has driven the lancet out of medical 
practice, and consequently lessened the mortality of the disease beyond all 
account. In no case will the relief be less speedy than in blood-letting, and 
this remedy is infinitely better, as it is not attended with the exhaustion 
which is one of the most serious results after the loss of blood. The special 
indications for its use are intense fever; hot, dry skin; quick, hard pulse; 
deep, bluish redness of the face. It should be given in the very earliest 
stage, and many times will arrest the congestion, and, by restoring the ob- 
structed circulation through the lungs to a normal condition, check the 
disease in its first stages. Bryonia, another important remedy, is indicated 
when there are violent, stitching pains. It may be given at the outset in 
alternation with aconite, when the symptoms for the latter exist, or, after 
the fever has abated, when any motion increases the pain, and there is 
great thirst. It is especially adapted to the complication known as pleuro- 
pneumonia. Phosphorus may also be given, at the commencement of the 
disease, if there be a constant dry, hacking cough; a gluey, sticky discharge, 
sometimes tinged with blood; and when the bronchi are affected. Its use, 
however, is more especially indicated in the latter part of the disease. San- 
guinaria is indicated, in the second and third stages, by extremely difficult 
breathing; tough, reddish-brown spittle; burning, stitching pain in the 
chest; small, quick pulse; red and burning cheeks; cold hands and feet. 



182 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Tartarus emeticus, a long-used and efficient remedy, is seldom applicable to 
the^primary stage, but is of more value when the disease has extended to 
the air-cells, and is attended with free exudation and expectoration. 

The patient must be kept very quiet, and should be lightly but warmly 
covered, the temperature of the room being from 60 ° to 65 ° F., with free 
admission of fresh air. Apply a poultice of linseed meal to fit the chest; or, 
if there be great pain or soreness, spread the poultice with ground mustard, 
letting it remain until the surface is red. Cloths wet in cold water, and 
changed every five minutes, give great relief, lessen the pulse and decrease 
the temperature. Mucilaginous drinks, light, nourishing diet, increasing the 
same as the inflammatory symptoms subside, should be given. 

The remedies in the commencement should be taken frequently, from 
every half-hour to every two hours, according to the severity of the case. 

PLEURISY. 

The pleura is the membrane which invests the lungs and lines the chest, 
forming a partition that divides the cavity into two parts. Inflammation of 
the pleura, or pleurisy, is caused by a cold, or is the result of inflammation 
extending from the lungs. It commences with acute pain in the side, 
usually the right; the respiration is hurried and short, giving great pain, 
and, in many respects, the symptoms are similar to those attendant upon 
inflammation of the lungs, though the cough, which frequently occurs, is 
devoid of the bloody expectoration of pneumonia. 

Treatment. — Aconite. — High fever and dry skin. Alternate with 
bryonia, if there be severe, stitching pain and dry, hacking cough. The 
helps used in the treatment of pneumonia will be applicable as well as the 
administration of the medicines. 

WHOOPING-COUGH. 

This disease is generally confined to children, and derives its name from 
the peculiar sound produced by drawing in the breath during a fit of cough- 
ing. It is contagious in character, and usually occurs but once during life, 
though instances are known of people having a sympathetic cough resem- 
bling the disease, when in contact with those who are suffering from a real 
attack. It usually comes on with hoarseness, cough, difficult breathing, 
fever, and the ordinary symptoms of a cold. After ten or twelve days the 
coughing, attended with a shrill whoop, is fully established, and its 
paroxysms sometimes terminate in a fit of vomiting. Nose-bleeding is a 
frequent and sometimes troublesome symptom. 

Treatment. — The disease runs a stated course, when left to itself, 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 183 

but, under proper treatment, the severity of the symptoms are much 
lessened, and the length of the disease materially shortened. During the 
primary stage, aconite is usually all that is needed; but after the feature of 
whooping is established, the following are required : Drosera will be found 
excellent, the indications for which are violent, spasmodic, fatiguing cough, 
attended with whistling or whooping breathing, terminating with profuse 
expectoration or vomiting. A syrup of drosera may be given throughout 
the disease. Make it»by mixing one drachm of the tincture of drosera with 
three ounces of simple syrup, and give a half-teaspoonful three or four times 
a day. Give belladonna, when the cough is worse at night, harsh and 
accompanied with soreness of the throat. Cuprum is needed when convul- 
sions occur, followed by loss of consciousness. 

No animal food should be allowed until after the patient has begun to 
improve. Vegetables, sago, tapioca, bread, gruel, light puddings and fruit 
may be allowed. 

SPASMODIC CROUP.— ASTHMA MILLARS. 

This is an affection of the throat, and consists in a temporary closing of 
the fissure of the glottis, or entrance to the windpipe. It is frequently mis- 
taken for true or membranous croup, but it has two distinguishing features: 
It is not ushered in with a cold, and has no membranous formation. It 
attacks children suddenly, usually in the middle of the night, the child 
waking with a shrill, hoarse cough, great anxiety and apparent suffocation. 
A characteristic in this disease, however, is that the difficulty in breathing is 
in the inspiration, or drawing in of the breath, with free and easy expulsion. 
It is not dangerous, unless long neglected, and usually yields to treatment. 

Treatment. —Apply a compress wet in cold water to the chest and 
throat, covering thickly with flannel. If there is fever, give a dose of 
aconite. Gelseminum is indicated by alternate spasm and relaxation. 
When there is a paralytic or chronic condition, a two-hundredth of a grain 
of strychnine once or twice daily is useful. 

ASTHMA. 

The prominent symptoms of this curious disease are difficult breathing, 
with distressing sense of suffocation; fullness and oppression of the chest; 
anxiety. It comes on in paroxysms, and sometimes is dry, without expec- 
toration; at other times, moist, with profuse discharge. The latter condition, 
however, is indicative of a relief of the attack, and when the cough has been 
dry and hard at first, the expectoration may be tinged with blood. The 
attacks are usually preceded by languor, heaviness of the eyes, and general 



184 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

depression, with sickness and restlessness. They are usually worse at night, 
and often keep the patient from lying down. 

Treatment. — Ipecac. — When aroused from sleep by a sense of draw- 
ing or cramping in the lungs; pale face; cold extremities; muscles rigid; 
evidences of suffocation; congestive headache; sickness. Arsenicum, when, 
in addition to the above symptoms, there are great exhaustion, cold per- 
spiration, burning sensation in the throat, and cramping in the extremities. 
Aconite, in spasmodic asthma, the special indications for it being oppressive 
anxiety; difficult breathing; labored action of the heart. Nux vomica has 
extraordinary efficacy in this troublesome complaint, owing to its action on 
the digestive tract, an irritation of which is one of the primary causes of 
bronchial spasms. It is especially adapted to the condition of the digestive 
organs following a paroxysm. The symptoms indicating its use are thick, 
yellow fur on the tongue; nausea; flatulence; constipation. 

During a fit, striking relief is often obtained by putting the feet and 
hands in hot water. Smoking leaves of stramonium, the common thorn- 
apple, at the commencement of an attack, acts like a charm. This is some- 
times combined with nitrate potassa (saltpetre), and burned in the room 
in the form of powder on hot coals. This does not always prove effica- 
cious, some getting no relief. The breathing of aconite vapor is often 
much better, a few drops of the tincture being put into boiling water. 

Persons subject to this disease should restrict the diet, rejecting all arti- 
cles of food which are indigestible, and avoid damp clothes and sudden 
changes in temperature. Inclination to stooping, a habit common to all 
asthmatics, should be corrected, and the capacity of the chest be increased 
by expansion and systematic breathing, filling the chest full of air. The 
application of cold water to the body, by means of the shower-bath, will 
fortify the patient against cold, and strengthen the whole system. Outdoor 
exercise should be taken, though time should be allowed after a meal for 
food to digest. 

HAY-FEVER.— HAY-ASTHMA. 

This disease consists in an irritation of the air-passages, and is due to 
the inhalation of some exciting substances, usually the pollen of certain 
flowers or grasses. It passes under the names above given because of this 
generally accepted origin and its periodic appearance at a certain time in 
the year. Back of this, however, there must be an idiosyncrasy, resulting 
from some form of nervous exhaustion (see Nervous Exhaustion), against 
these irritating agencies; for all of these combined would not produce hay- 
fever unless the system were previously prepared for its development by 
some nervous condition. Though properly an affection of the nervous sys- 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 185 

tern, it is treated in this chapter because it manifests itself especially in the 
organs, of respiration. 

The symptoms are those of ordinary catarrh, with or without asthma. 
There will be itching of the nose, eyes and ears; frequent sneezing, often 
in prolonged paroxysms; profuse discharges from the eyes and nose, caus- 
ing irritation and soreness about them; tightness in the chest, with cough 
and difficult breathing; pricking in the throat; general lassitude; fever 
often followed by chills, these sometimes being of the periodic type char- 
acteristic of ague; spirits liable to be much depressed, with great irritability 
of temper; all symptoms worse at a certain hour of the day. 

Treatment. — This consists in the correction of the condition of the 
nervous system which invites the disorder, and an avoidance of all those 
irritating substances in the atmosphere which are known or suspected as 
the exciting cause. To gain these ends, one must often seek needed rest 
from the ordinary cares of his avocation, choosing a locality free from the 
atmospheric conditions which favor the disease; and anticipating an attack 
by making such change before it comes on, for the malady is with difficulty 
checked after its symptoms have once fairly set in. There is such a variety 
of conditions, causes and symptoms that each case must be studied and 
treated independently ; hence, the advertised " cure-alls " can be safely set 
down as worthless, and some are known to be positively harmful. 

For the sneezing, titillation of the nose and irritation of the eyes, par- 
ticularly when the discharges excoriate tbe surrounding skin, arsenicum 
iodide will be found the most useful. It may be used as a preventive, its 
administration being begun some time before the attack. Ambrosia is 
equally efficacious when there is great difficulty in breathing; as are also 
grindelia robusta and sumbul, or vegetable musk. Sabadilla has cured 
many cases; in addition to its use as an internal remedy, it should be ap- 
plied by inhalation. Bromide of potassa and bromide of soda often give 
prompt relief by allaying the nervous irritation which is the basis of the 
trouble. Kali bichromicum relieves cases which are attended by much 
cough, yellow-coated tongue, and general derangement of the digestive 
functions. Quinia has often afforded relief when there seemed to be 
malarial complications, one or two grains being given every two hours 
during the intervals between the paroxysms. 

[I have cured more cases with iodide of arsenic (one-hundredth of a 
grain every two hours) than with any other medicine. A severe and sud- 
den attack may often be cut short by taking twenty grains of chloral 
hydrate. — Hale.] 

The inhalation of medicines often proves very beneficial, the patient 
many times securing sleep by such means when others have failed. For 



186 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

this, an ordinary inhaler may be used, or a spray atomizer. Fifteen drops 
of fluid hydrastia in an inhaler one-third full of water may be used two or 
three times a day, the vapor being drawn into the air-passages; the same 
directions being also applicable to an atomizer. Ten drops of a twenty per 
cent, solution of carbolic acid, in place of the hydrastia, make a good 
preparation for use in the inhaler or atomizer; so also do twenty drops of 
the tincture of sabadilla. 

The symptoms are mitigated by protection from strong, bright sun- 
light, and the use of such means as will promote the vigor of the system 
and the circulation. The cold or tepid bath, Turkish bath, and sea-bathing 
may prove of benefit, the condition of the patient being carefully con- 
sidered in their application. 

INFLUENZA. 

This rather frequent disorder is not confined to any particular country 
or clime, though it prevails more generally in the temperate zone. It is 
epidemic and non-contagious, though there may be conditions under which 
it will become infectious. There is no doubt, however, that it is due to at- 
mospheric conditions. The name influenza means "influence," and was 
applied to this disease from the fact that during one of the great epidemics 
of the seventeenth century the cause was supposed to be the position and in- 
fluence of the stars. It seems to travel with an east wind, and sometimes 
extends a long distance. Its duration in one locality is usually from four to 
six weeks, and its departure is as sudden as its approach. Being epidemic 
in character, and attacking both man and beast, old and young, it is often 
of a formidable nature, and sometimes fatal, especially in the aged or very 
young. 

It differs from a common cold in its sudden appearance and epidemic 
nature; in not being connected with any sudden extremes of temperature; 
in the severe fever, general prostration, and nervous depression which at- 
tend it; in the longer duration of its symptoms and subsequent effects. It 
usually comes on with chilliness, particularly in the back; pain in the limbs 
and back; fever; severe headache, affecting the forehead and eyes; violent 
fits of coughing and sneezing; watery, inflamed eyes; thin, acrid, excoriat- 
ing discharge from the nose; nausea, and loss of appetite; sometimes vom- 
iting; much thirst. Though it is a specific fever of a catarrhal type, it is 
not confined to the respiratory organs; but it usually manifests itself par- 
ticularly in these parts, involving the whole tract and producing the symp- 
toms of coryza, laryngitis and bronchitis. Its duration in a given patient is 
from four to ten days, the latter period being nearer the rule in severe 
epidemics. 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 187 

Treatment. — Confinement to the house is requisite, and sometimes 
to the bed also. The diet should be light, consisting of gruels, except when 
there is great prostration, the latter condition demanding strong animal 
broths. The room should be kept warm and well ventilated, the patient 
being studiously protected from draughts. 

When the attack first appears, as indicated by chilliness, bromide of 
camphor will often arrest its further progress. Gelseminum is the best 
remedy for the fever, and should always be given unless the fever is of a 
pronounced inflammatory type; the latter condition needs aconite. The 
indications for gelseminum are severe aching; alternate chills and fever; 
headache; moist skin; dry cough; symptoms worse in the after part of the 
day. Aconite is indicated by a quick, hard, full pulse; dry, hot skin; harsh, 
dry, painful cough; pain in the chest. When the discharge from the nose 
begins, and makes the lips, nostrils and eyes sore, arsenicum iodide should 
be given. Kali bichromicum acts well if there be much cough, with sticky, 
tenacious mucus; yellow coating on the tongue; disturbance of the stomach. 
Nux vomica, for stuffy feeling in the nose; dull headache; constipation; indi- 
gestion; bitter taste in the mouth. Cases which take on a marked periodical 
type, with chills followed by fever, will be best met with quinine, one to 
two grain doses every two or three hours during the interval between the 
fever and the subsequent chill. Iron in some form may be required to 
build up the system when exhaustion and debility continue after the disease 
has subsided. Elixir nitrogenized iron is a good form. 

Inhalations may afford grateful relief, and suitable directions for their 
use may be found in the article on Hay-Fever. Cold baths have a good 
effect, if wisely applied, and, when used before an attack, will often prevent 
its appearance by promoting the vigor of the body and thus rendering it 
less susceptible to atmospheric influences. There is little doubt that a 
debilitated, overworked, or poorly-nourished body is well suited to invite 
this disease. 

SPITTING BLOOD. 

This difficulty, though usually an accompaniment of some disease of 
the lungs or bronchi, sometimes occurs independently as the result of effu- 
sion of blood through the membrane lining these organs, and may not be a 
very serious condition. The blood from the lungs is frothy, of a light- 
red color and thin, and bleeding from these organs is attended with cough, 
the blood having a sweetish or salty taste; while that from the stomach is 
dark, and unaccompanied by cough. (Study the characteristics of the two 
kinds of bleeding that are given under "Vomiting of Blood," in Chap. IV.) 

An attack of bleeding is usually preceded by a sensation of tightness 



188 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

or oppression of the chest; difficult breathing; anxiety; palpitation; burn- 
ing sensation in the chest; lassitude; a rapid pulse. In those predisposed to 
this trouble it may be caused by any violent exertion, or by a debilitated or 
faulty circulation of blood through the lungs. It is usually an indication of 
disease of these organs or bronchi. 

Treatment. — Aconite or arnica, alone or in alternation, will usually 
control the bleeding. Give china or pulsatilla if there be, after the bleed- 
ing, an uncomfortable feeling in the chest; debility; difficult breathing, and 
chills. Hamamelis, ten to twenty drops, doses every half-hour or hour, 
if the bleeding is profuse. [Tincture of erigeron, ten drops every hour, 
will arrest almost any such bleeding. — Hale.] 

Violent exertion and stimulants of every description should be avoided. 
A light, cool, vegetable diet is the best. While the bleeding continues, per- 
fect quiet and silence are necessary, the patient being allowed cold drinks. 

CONSUMPTION. 

This disease, so prevalent and so fatal in our variable climate, though 
well known to the ordinary observer, does not belong to the province of 
domestic practice. Its incurability, after reaching a certain stage, and the 
insidious manner in which it makes its approach, call for the best medical 
aid in the beginning. Though incurable when it is far advanced, it is often 
relieved in the early stages, and a new lease of life granted. 

The first indications of its approach are the gradual but persistent loss 
of flesh, which may be noticed some time before there is cough or expec- 
toration. This is undoubtedly due to the failure of the digestive organs, or 
the process of assimilation of food. Soon there will be debility, shortness 
of breath on making any exertion, oppression of the chest, and finally, cough 
and fever. This fever is peculiar, making its 'lopearance quite regularly 
each day, generally about noon, continuing for a few hours, and followed, 
as the patient grows weaker, by drenching sweats. As the disease 
advances, all the symptoms increase, the cough becomes hoarse, and the 
expectoration changes from a clear, transparent mucus to an opaque, viscid 
fluid, greenish, and sometimes tinged with blood. The fever becomes more 
severe, continuing for several hours ; there is a burning heat on the palms of 
the hands and soles of the feet; a red spot appears on one or both cheeks; 
the emaciation is great; the eyes are large and bright; the patient, ever 
hopeful, ever looking to a speedy return of health, gradually declines. 

The causes of this malady are many. It follows diseases which result 
in a reduced state of the system. It may result from neglected colds or 
catarrh; in fact, very many cases are due to repeated attacks of 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 18U 

catarrh, and the warning to never neglect a cold can not be too urgent. 
Contagion is another source of consumption, and may be imparted by- 
sleeping with one who is suffering from the disease, or in the same room 
with him, by drinking from the same cup, and the like. Hereditary and 
other taints are often its cause; and also, to use Bennett's words, "impov- 
erished nutrition, resulting from impure air, and an improper quantity, 
quality, or assimilation of food; and so long as misery and poverty exist on 
the one hand, or dissipation and enervating luxuries on t.he other, so long 
will the causes be in operation which induce this terrible disease." Foreign 
material in the lungs, as the dust from coal, iron or slate, will also give rise 
to consumption. Tubercular matter may form in the air-cells, degenerate, 
form pus, and so promote the disease. Tubercular matter, let it be known, 
may exist in the lungs for some time before any obvious symptoms 
indicate the presence of consumption. The increase of the temperature of 
the body during this state is, however, so persistent that high authorities 
affirm that a prolonged and continuous rise of temperature is a certain ev- 
idence of a deposit of matter in the lungs, though there may be no other 
symptoms that point to disease. The presence of this matter may be 
determined by placing the ear over the lungs and detecting a rattling 
sound during respiration, or by examining the expectoration and observing 
that it consists of pus which appears in globular, wool-like masses, sinks in 
water or floats at different depths, and when put on a dry surface assumes 
the form of flat circular bodies which remain distinct from one another. 

The course of the disease is quite variable, sometimes galloping along 
and hurrying the patient to the grave in a few weeks; at other times lasting 
for months or years, with alternate hope and fear, until the worn and tired 
body sinks away. 

Treatment. — The treatment, except in the earliest stages, consists in 
palliation, and we shall endeavor to place before our readers those means 
whose careful study may result in prolonging life, and relieving its last days 
of many pangs. In the early stages we must be mainly guided by the 
special cause of the disease. When this is catarrh or cold, the patient is 
referred to the article on that subject; when due to exhausting disease or 
debility of the digestive function, attention should be given to treatment of 
the disorders in its organs, as described in the chapter upon the digestive 
system. 

Aconite is one of the best remedies for the fever accompanying this 
disease. Its special indications are hectic fever; full pulse; dry cough; 
bleeding in full, fleshy people. After the first stages of cough have passed, 
and there is a hoarse, rattling cough, no better remedy can be found than 
hepar. It is beneficial for disposition to take cold, profuse sweats, especially 



190 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

about the chest, with a sour smell; coughs when uncovered; hoarse, croupy 
cough; catarrh of the throat and windpipe, with great hoarseness. This 
remedy will be found very useful when there is an unhealthy condition of 
the skin, causing it to crack and chap and to run into ulcerations from 
slight causes, as salt-rheum and other eruptions. Sulphur is useful in the 
incipient stage; also for hoarseness; difficult breathing; weakness and 
burning in the chest; and, later, for the stage of pus-discharge from the 
lungs. Give calcarea carbonica for violent cough, hoarse in the evening; 
expectoration composed of pus and of a foul smell ; great prostration, with 
profuse night-sweats; thirst; enlarged glands; indigestion. Phosphorus, 
in its many forms, has great power over this disease, and undoubtedly 
many preparations which have secured more or less commendation, owe 
their reputation to its presence. It is specially valuable for people of slen- 
der form and fair complexion, when the disease is deeply seated, w r ith great 
emaciation, nervous prostration and more or less derangement of the digest- 
ive organs. There may be a reduced amount and quality of the blood, 
with frequent tendency to bleeding, a condition which is accompanied with 
a dry, hard cough, and expectoration frequently tinged with blood. This 
debilitated condition of the blood, with the general prostration of the sys- 
tem, tends to frequent attacks of watery, exhaustive diarrhoea, with more or 
less irritation of the stomach, at times causing nausea and vomiting. Such 
a state calls for phosphorus. So, also, does the dry, hoarse cough during 
the incipient stage, especially if there is a bloodless condition of the system. 

Inhalations are often a useful method of administering medicines, but 
should be under the care of a physician, with the exception of the simple 
inhalation of the vapor from hot water, which soothes the inflamed mucous 
membrane, and assists in detaching the mucus from the air-passages. 

It will be impossible to give the general treatment of consumption in 
detail within the limits of this work, for that would involve a thorough 
treatise on hygiene. We shall give the most important points in its preven- 
tion, cure and palliation. The first thing in importance, both in its pre- 
vention and the subsequent stages, is the diet. This should consist of food 
which is nourishing, digestible and of sufficient quantity, including animal 
food two or three times a day; good home-made, stale bread; puddings of 
arrowroot, rice, sago, tapioca and manioca, with milk; various kinds of 
green vegetables and mealy potatoes; milk; eggs, raw, or beaten up with 
milk or wine. Pork, veal, fish not having scales, pastry, and, in fact, all 
articles that are known to give rise to indigestion, should be avoided. 

Cod-liver oil, although possessing many medicinal properties, must be 
considered as exerting its most important function as a food, and, if properlv 
administered, may be productive of the happiest results. This is not always 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 191 

the case, however, as it is frequently given at an improper time or to peo- 
ple who should not take it. The great benefits from its use lying in its re- 
cuperative properties, it should be given only when the digestive organs 
are in a condition to ittilize it and furnish to the system the needed material 
to supply the great waste constantly going on. As a rule, patients of a 
scrofulous temperament should not use this oil. Care should be taken to 
make it as palatable as possible; to secure pure oil, which is always a clear 
amber in color; to furnish to the sensitive stomach some means to disguise 
its taste, and always to give it after eating, either in a little brandy, a table- 
spoonful of strong black tea, or without anything, if desired. The usual 
dose for an adult is one to two teaspoonfuls three times a day. There are 
various emulsions of the oil which are united with the phosphates, hypophos- 
phites, or iron; but it is deemed best to prescribe none of these here as 
the best, for improvements are constantly made, and the reader will do bet- 
ter to make a selection upon the advice of some well qualified counsel. 
While using the oil, a plain, nutritious diet is necessary. 

[A substitute for cod-liver oil has lately been introduced. It is the oil 
of the seeds of the saw palmetto. The oil is mixed with sugar and taken in 
doses of one-half to one teaspoonful three times a day. It will arrest the 
coughs, night sweats and emaciation, and rapidly increase the bodily weight. 
My experience with it has been very good. — Hale.] 

Koumiss, which originated with the Tartars, and by them was made 
from mare's milk, is undoubtedly the best food that can be given, both in 
the stage when the digestive functions are impaired, and also when it is 
with difficulty that the food is retained or properly digested. The great 
success attending the use of this simple remedy is such that the people of 
Tartary are almost exempt from scrofula and consumption, and people from 
all Europe go into that country to submit themselves to treatment by kou- 
miss, many returning in perfect health. These results have attracted 
the attention of the government of Russia, and institutions under govern- 
ment support have been established in different parts of the empire for its 
manufacture. With all our progress in this country, its preparation is 
limited to a few places, and the knowledge of its virtues is comparatively 
limited in the profession. Fermenting milk is the most easily digested 
food known, and this is true to such an extent that children, who are suffer- 
ing from marasmus and unable to retain even the mother's milk, have been 
saved and made to thrive on koumiss. It should be taken the same as any 
other food, and, in the case of infants, may be diluted and sweetened with a 
little sugar. The relish for it increases with its use, until the patient pre- 
fers it to any other drink. 

In all cases of delicate stomachs, it should be secured from a competent 



192 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

chemist, but for other cases, a very fair article can be made by any one pos- 
sessing a good supply of fresh, sweet milk, and a proper place to preserve 
it. To make it, take 

i Bottle old koumiss. 
5 Quarts new milk. 
i Quart water. 
y 2 Pound loaf sugar. 
i Tablespoonful brewer's yeast. 
Dissolve ine sugar in the water and add the milk, then the koumiss, and 
then the yeast; stir all together in an earthen jar and place in a temperature 
of 70 to 75 F. When fermentation has been thoroughly established 
(which will be indicated by the surface being thickly covered with bubbles), 
put into strong bottles and thoroughly cork, tying the corks firmly. After 
this, place the bottles on the side in a temperature of 40 to 50 F., and 
in twenty-four or forty-eight hours it is ready for use. The only way in 
which it can be successfully drawn from the bottles is by using a cham- 
pagne faucet. By this means, it will remain sparkling until all is used, 
and there is no danger of wasting it. Shake the bottle if there should be 
any lumps preventing its free egress from the faucet. 

The extract of malt is highly recommended as a very nutritious tonic, 
and there are many preparations of it which will prove beneficial in the 
treatment of this disease and others of a kindred nature. Trommer's Ex- 
tract is the best at the present writing, and, combined with cod-liver oil, or 
pepsin, makes a desirable and efficacious remedy. It should be taken three 
times a day, a tablespoonful for an adult, half the quantity for a child. 

Hypophosphites. — The syrup, or solution, of hypophosphites of lime 
and soda, after the formula of the celebrated Dr. Churchill, has met with 
grand results in the treatment of consumption, scrofula, and other exhausting 
diseases. Its use, however, should be under the observation of skilled aid 
and great care should be exercised in the amount taken, since harm has re- 
sulted from drenching the system with too large a quantity. The dose for 
an adult is one to three teaspoonfuls each day, children a less quantity ac- 
cording to age. 

Clothing. — Special attention should be given to the clothing, as con- 
sumptive people are very susceptible to changes in the temperature, and are 
liable to take cold. Underclothing of flannel, lamb's-wool or silk should 
be worn the year round, care being taken in the summer that it is not too 
warm, as it may cause much perspiration. In the winter, the addition of a 
vest made from chamois-skin may be worn outside the flannel. Too much 
care cannot be taken to prevent exposure to extreme cold, and those who 
are predisposed to or suffering from this disease should always be prepared 



MAN THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION. 1<J3 

for any emergency or condition of the weather, as many have found early 
graves from the shock of a severe cold. 

Bathing and Rubbing. — Before the patient has become exhausted, 
bathing of the body in cool salt-water is highly beneficial, sea-bathino- 
being preferable. Great care should be taken to rub the body thoroughly 
with coarse towels until the surface is in a bright glow. This promotes 
capillary circulation, brings the blood to the surface, and strengthens and in- 
vigorates the body. If reaction does not take place, and the patient remains 
cold and pale, the warm salt-water bath, or the free rubbing of the body 
with the flesh brush, bath-sheet, or, what is still better, with " salt-towels," 
should be used. These salt-towels consist of an ordinary crash towel, satu- 
rated with a solution of sea-salt and water, and then dried. 

Exercise. — Among the means of lengthening life, and the aids in the 
cure of this disease, are persistent exercise of the muscles and the free expan- 
sion of the lungs. The more fully the lungs are used and made to secure 
large quantities of pure, fresh air, the greater their capacity becomes. Un- 
der a judicious system of training, an undeveloped body, though feeble, nar- 
row-chested and sickly, may become active, full-chested, and healthy. 
Systematic breathing consists in drawing the shoulders back, keeping the 
body erect and the head raised, while the chest is expanded to the fullest 
capacity in regular, long and deep inspirations, followed by complete and 
forcible expulsion of the air from the lungs. By this means the deep-seated 
cells are emptied, and new life-giving air is drawn in. The various gym- 
nastic exercises, walking, horseback riding, and like practices, care being 
taken to stop short of absolute fatigue, will tend to build up a healthy body 
as a bulwark against this formidable foe. 

In conclusion, the antecedent treatment, meeting the disease before it 
has been able to gain a firm footing, is the best and only sure means of suc- 
cess. This can be done only by avoiding all excesses, leading pure, sober 
lives, being hopeful, and, as far as possible, making one^s every-day duties 
harmonize with the rules whose observance tends to strengthen and build 
up a healthy body. 




*3 



CHAPTER VII. 
THE SKIN. 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 




HE skin forms a thin but strong and elastic covering for the whole 
body. It is firmly joined to the underlying flesh, and, when viewed 
under the microscope, is seen to be composed of a multitude of lit- 
tle cells and fibers. It has two layers, known as the cuticle, or 

scarf-skin, and the true skin, a brief study of 

which will reveal an interesting and somewhat 

complex structure. 

The scarf-skin consists of innumerable scales, 

visible when sufficiently magnified, which are 

simply rounded 

cells that are flat- 
tened as they 

reach the surface. 

These cells are 

not more than 

1-25000 of an 

inch in diameter. 

They are subject 

to constant waste 

and renewal, like 

other portions of 

the body, and are 

cast off in the 

form of dry, bran- In figure a, layers of the Skin are indi- 

J ' cated by 1, 2,3. 4, An Oil-Gland. 5, The 

nv Scales. This Hair-Sac. b is the lower part of a more 

J magnified, c, is a Vertical Section of a 

layer of the skin Hair - 

has no blood-vessels or nerves of its own, and no 
sense of touch. Its deeper part, where it unites with the under layer, is 
called the rete mucosum and contains the pigment which gives the black, 

194 




Magnified Section of 
the Skin. 

C, Cuticle. D, Papillae. E, Fat- 
Cells of the True Skin. A, a Pore, 
Sweat-Tube, and coiled Sweat- 
Gland. B, a Hair, with two Oil- 
Glands, and with a Muscle attached 
to the root. 




The Root of a Hair. 



MAN THE SKIN. 195 

copper and other colors to the different races. This coloring matter is less 
abundant in the white races, and is nearly or entirely absent in the albinos. 

The true skin is composed of cells, nerves, blood-vessels, lymph-ves- 
sels and glands, and is very sensitive. At its place of union with the scarf- 
skin are little projections, called ■pafiillce, in which the nerves of touch end. 
Deeper down, at the bottom of the true skin, are oil-cells, or sebaceous 
glands, which constitute what we call fat and serve as a protective pad- 
ding against external harm or cold. These glands generally terminate in 
the tubes from which the hair grows. In addition to nourishing the hair 
with the oily substance which they extract from the blood, they lubricate 
the scarf-skin, prevent it from drying and scaling off too rapidly, and keep 
the skin soft. 

Over the whole surface of the body are what are popularly known as 
" pores." These are little tubes which are closed at the deeper end, and 
terminate at the other end in tubes coiled into bundles, called sweat-glands. 
It has been estimated that there are more than twenty-eight hundred of 
these to the square inch, or seven million in an average-sized man, equiva- 
lent to twenty-eight miles of the tubing. It is evident that an enormous 
amount of fluids can be filtered off from the blood by the extensive surface 
of these tubes. 

FUNCTIONS OF THE SKIN. 

i. The skin forms a protective and supporting cover for the whole 
surface of the body. 

2. It is the seat of the sense of touch, the nerves of that sense being 
very copiously distributed in it. 

3. It possesses the power of absorbing matters brought into contact 
with it, with more or less activity according to the nature of the substance 
and the condition of the skin. The true skin will absorb very rapidly and 
indiscriminately. 

4. It is an aid to the lungs, taking in oxygen from the air and giving out 
a small portion of carbonic acid, with a great deal of the vapor of water. 
Compare the functions of breathing in the anatomy and physiology of 
Chapter VI. 

5. It is a great regulator of the temperature of the body. 

6. It is one of the main channels for the purification of the body, by 
throwing off the used-up or waste materials, the accumulation of which in 
the system is followed by most injurious results. 

From foregoing remarks the reader has learned that the skin is a 
most important part of his organism, and that a derangement of its functions 
must bring serious consequences. Between it and the internal organs there 



196 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

is an intimate relation and the health of the body is dependent, in great 
measure, upon the maintenance of their uninterrupted intercourse. Dis- 
eases of the skin, indeed, are generally indications of some internal dis- 
order, which is aggravated when measures are taken to suppress these 
outward manifestations without a corresponding treatment of the internal. 
Suddenly receding eruptions have brought on liver complaint, vomiting, 
affections of the eyes, diarrhoea, mania, consumption, and a variety of other 
troubles. Hence, the study of the skin and its care is of the greatest mo- 
ment, and some of the diseases arising from its neglect are of the gravest 
import. For more specific observations upon its care, the reader is referred 
to that subject in the chapter devoted to Hygiene. 

DANDRUFF OR DANDRIFF. 

This disorder often results from acne, and may also be due to a de- 
rangement in the oil-glands of the skin. It may be a symptom of derange- 
ment of the digestion, nervous system, or other parts. Baldness will sooner 
or later result from this affection, and the latter should, therefore, never 
be neglected. 

Treatment. — If the disorder arises from any of the derangements 
mentioned above, it will be effectually treated only by the removal of the 
main trouble. In such cases, while attending to the general health, and in 
cases independent of these constitutional ailments, wash the scalp with cold 
water and good mild soap once or twice a week; then apply equal 
parts of castor oil and alcohol, rubbed (not scratched) into the roots of the 
hair. A drachm of tannin to an ounce of vaseline is also good for an ap- 
plication every two or three days. Another is made of a grain of red 
oxide of mercury to a drachm of vaseline, care being taken not to use it so 
often as to keep the scalp irritated. A dose of arsenicum internally three 
times a day will be beneficial; if it does not afford relief, try graphites oi- 
ly copodium. A harsh brush should never be used, even on a healthy 
scalp. It is injurious to scratch the head when dandruff exists, or to use a 
brush or fine comb for removing it. 

FRECKLES AND SUNBURN. 

These are obviously annoyances rather than diseases. They are pre- 
vented by protection from the air and sun, though the reader should re- 
member that such protection is often at the expense of the general health. 
To remove freckles, bathe the parts at night in a lotion made of six ounces 
of water, one teaspoonful of powdered borax, and an ounce of lemon-juice. 
Another application is composed of four ounces of vinegar or buttermilk, 



MAN THE SKIN. 197 

and an ounce of grated horseradish root, to be used after standing some hours. 
For sunburn, anoint the skin with fresh lard or cream to remove the pain 
and irritation; if desired, the skin may, when tenderness is gone, be 
bleached with a very weak dilution of carbolic acid, or by bathing in 
water and carbolic soap. 

EXCESSIVE AND OFFENSIVE SWEATS. 

The sweat-glands sometimes give out an abnormal amount of secre- 
tions, particularly on the hands and feet, in the armpits and between the 
thighs. This not only occasions annoyance and debility, but is sometimes 
attended with an offensive odor; the latter condition also existing when the 
perspiration is not excessive. 

Treatment. — For excessive sweats, promote the general tone of the 
system by proper food, drink and exercise, observing the directions on the 
care of the skin given in the chapter on Hygiene. For offensive feet, give 
a bath night and morning in alternate hot and cold water, the feet being 
first dipped into the hot water, then into the cold, every minute for fifteen 
minutes; then dry them and apply a solution of tannin and glycerine, two 
drachms of the former to an ounce of the latter. A strong decoction of 
white-oak bark is another good application after the bath. 

An excellent treatment, along with the hot and cold water baths, con- 
sists in changing the stockings twice daily, and putting the feet of those 
taken off into a jar containing a solution of boracic acid for a short time, and 
then drying them before using again. The leather of the boots and shoes 
will, however, smell as offensively as the stockings. Obviate this by pro- 
curing a half-dozen pairs of cork soles and using a fresh pair every day, 
keeping them at nigiit in the solution of boracic acid. The difficulty 
may also be remedied by bathing the soles of the feet once or twice daily 
in chloral hydrate, twenty grains to three ounces of alcohol, putting on the 
stockings while the feet are thus wet. Cloth boots and shoes are better for 
use, since they admit the air and allow the secretions to pass off; and rub- 
bers, or other coverings for the feet that are very close, should not be used, 
or be worn only when out of doors in the wet or cold. 

[The most successful treatment I ever adopted is to apply freely to the 
feet, after washing, the subnitrate of bismuth. — Hale.] 

For offensive sweats on any portion of the body, bathe the parts two 
or three times a day with soap and water, adding a little chlorinated soda 
The chloral hydrate recommended for offensive feet is also good. In place 
of the chlorinated soda in the bath, a little three per cent, solution of car- 
bolic acid may be substituted. If one will use a good article of carbolic 
soap in the bath, he will have favorable results. 



198 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Offensive odors are sometimes due to the cottons or flannels worn, 
the coloring or fulling matters perhaps being such that the natural heat and 
moisture of the body will act upon them so as to excite a disagreeable 
smell. The chemicals, soap and starch used in laundries may also pro- 
duce a like effect. One should, when he thinks he is suddenly annoyed 
with offensive sweats, examine the clothing to see if it is not the seat of 
the trouble. 

SCABIES.— ITCH. 

Common itch is caused by a parasite that burrows in the skin, forming 
canals in which it lays eggs that are usually hatched in eight or ten days. 
The young, as soon as liberated, begin burrowing, thus spreading the 
trouble very rapidly, so that in five or six weeks the greater part of the 
body may be covered. Along the canals are formed blisters, which finally 
break on the surface, the contents forming small scabs. Intense itching is 
the most prominent symptom, and is usually worse at night. 

Treatment. — Sulphur, given internally, accompanied with sulphur- 
ointment applied locally, will generally cure the disease in three or four 
days. The ointment should be made of one part of sulphur to eight 
parts of lard, well mixed. The patient should take a hot soap and water 
bath at night, then rub the ointment thoroughly into the skin where 
affected, over the entire body if general, letting it remain until morning, 
when the hot bath should be repeated. The anointing should be repeated 
in the same manner until all itching disappears, the patient using great 
pains to avoid taking cold. 

BARBER'S ITCH.— SYCOSIS. 

Barber's itch is exclusively a disease of the male sex, occurring at 
about the age of twenty-five years, or when the beard grows thick and 
harsh. It consists in small elevations of the size of a pin-head, pierced by 
the hair or beard. These become filled with a thick, yellow fluid, and 
finally break, allowing the liquids to form the crusts. There is considera- 
ble swelling of the skin, attended with pain and heat. The disease is 
generally very obstinate. It is nearly always confined to the part of the 
face covered by the beard, but, in extreme cases, may extend to the scalp. 
It is transmitted from one person to another in shaving, by the use of the 
razor, mug, brush or soap. 

Treatment. — As the disease is due to a parasite, the local treatment 
should be a remedy for killing the intruders, applied two or three times a 
day, the single hairs extending through the tubercles being all pulled out. 
Mercurius corrosivus, one or two grains to a half-ounce each of alcohol and 



MAN — THE SKIN. 1 ( J ( J 

water, forms one of the best applications. Sulphurous acid, of twenty per 
cent, strength, as a lotion, will do better when the skin is highly inflamed 
and very irritable. Chrysophanic ointment will also prove useful. In- 
ternally, kali bichromicum may be used successfully, or red precipitate of 
mercury; but the local treatment generally gives the most satisfactory 
results. 

ECZEMA.— SCALD HEAD. 

This malady belongs to the class of skin diseases known as vesicular, 
characterized by an effusion of clear fluid underneath the cuticle, causing 
small elevations. These minute vesicles form in irregular patches, often 
running together, and, as they mature, the clear fluid becomes cloudy, the 
vesicles " gather and break," allowing the contents to form scabs of a 
yellowish-green color. In some cases, the exudation may ooze through the 
outer skin and not form vesicles, but spread over the surface, making a 
characteristic scab. Itching is a very prominent symptom. 

Another form is salt-rheum. When found in the face or head it is 
often called milk-crust. Grocer's itch, baker's itch, washerwoman's itch, 
etc., are only different forms of eczema, due to the irritants used by them 
in their employments. 

Treatment. — Owing to the fact that poor assimilation and faulty 
nervous action are great causes of eczema, the food should be well guarded. 
Stimulating drinks should be strictly avoided, pork and pastry being 
omitted in the food. 

The inflammatory symptoms are best allayed by wheat-bran mashes, 
two or three times per day, by poultices of boiled starch or linseed meal, 
or by hot fomentations. When but little inflammation exists, and the dis- 
charge is abundant, the loose scabs should be removed, and the parts dusted 
night and morning with lycopodium powder, or equal parts of oxide of zinc 
and starch. Glycerol tannin may be used with success, the formula for 
which is: 

20 Grains of tannin. 
1 Ounce of glycerine. 
Mix. 

When eczema becomes chronic, oil of cade, or pyroligneous oil of 
juniper should be used, one part of the oil to two parts of olive oil being 
well rubbed in night and morning. 

Internal Remedies. — Graphites. — Thick crusts covering a raw surface ; 
strong-scented serum; itching worse at night. Give sulphur when it 
attacks the scalp from ear to ear; surface bleeds easily. Aconite is useful 
in simple forms, with feverish symptoms ; acute cases. Give rhus tor acute 



200 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

eczema; small yellow blisters, with red margins; also itching at night, 
worse during wet weather. 

[Great success has followed the use of the tincture of burdock-seeds, 
fifteen drops four times a day. — Hale.] 

ACNE. 

Acne, or stone-pock, is an eruption consisting of hard, inflamed eleva- 
tions on the skin, varying in size from a pin-head to a pea, and is due to a 
retention of the secretion in the oil-glands. The elevations generallv 
suppurate and gradually disappear in two or three days, while others are in 
various stages of formation. 

This disease is usually confined to the face, shoulders and back, and 
occurs more commonly at or soon after puberty; men of sedentary 
habits and drunkards are subject to it. In women, it is often connected 
with uterine disturbances. 

Treatment. — The diet should be light, all spiced or salt food and 
stimulating drinks being avoided. Antimonium tartaricum may be given 
internally and applied locally when there is great tendency to formation of 
pus. Belladonna, when the pimples are large and bright-red, especially in 
young, full-blooded people. Give kali iodidum when the eruption is 
general, and very sensitive, especially at night. Sulphur is needed in 
chronic cases. Phosphoric acid, for cases due to menstrual troubles, and 
when it accompanies puberty in either sex [or pulsatilla. — Hale.]. 

COLD SORE.— FEVER BLISTER.— HERPES. 

This is an inflammation of the skin resulting in vesicles or blisters. It 
is more often found on the face and about the lips than elsewhere. The 
blisters generally occur in clusters, and the surrounding skin is inflamed 
and angry in appearance. Bad feeling and slight fever generally signal the 
attack. About the third day the blisters usually either break or continue 
to dry up, leaving scabs which soon fall off. The disorder may appear 
during an attack of pneumonia, or at the crisis of fevers, or may be 
simply the result of cold or catarrh. Whatever be the cause, it often 
causes much pain, and always some annoyance. 

Treatment. — Calendula jelly may be applied locally with a good 
effect. The internal remedies are : Aconite, when caused by taking cold ; 
or at any time when there is much fever or restlessness; is preferable in 
early stages. Arsenicum album, when the disorder is accompanied with 
great burning, especially after scratching; red, angry-looking patches 
around the lips. Kali bichromicum, when herpes results from taking cold; 



MAN THE SKIN. 201 

also for secretions and excretions of ropy, sticky character. Natrum 
muriaticum, when occurring during typhoid and other fevers. 

CHAFING.— INTERTRIGO. 

This affection is mostly confined to fat persons and infants whose skin 
is tender. It is usually found under the arms, on the neck, about the but- 
tocks, or wherever the flesh lies in folds. The surface becomes raw, with 
considerable heat, causing great irritation to the patient. 

Treatment. — Bathing, with cold water and castile soap, will relieve 
the irritation. After drying the parts, lycopodium powder with rice powder 
or starch, equal parts, should be dusted over the affected skin. Give 
calcarea carbonica when occurring in fat, scrofulous children. Chamomilla 
is indicated when the trouble is aggravated by change to cold in the 
weather; and if the child is sleepless and fretful. Give mercurius for raw- 
ness with great tenderness; symptoms worse at night. 

[No other treatment equals the application of an ointment composed of 
five grains of boracic acid to one ounce of vaseline. — Hale.] 

CHILBLAIN. 

Chilblain is an inflammation of the skin caused by cold, and usually 
occurs in the hands and feet. It begins with very fine blisters, accompanied 
with intense itching, tingling, and burning. The skin is left tender and 
irritated, and cold or damp weather will bring on repeated attacks, so that, 
in chronic cases, it disappears in summer, and comes on in winter. In long- 
standing cases, ulcers may form, and be quite obstinate in healing. 

Treatment. — Belladonna is to be given in recent attacks with con- 
siderable swelling and a bright-red color. Sulphur: Chilblain that itches 
intensely from warmth. Arsenicum: Ulcerated chilblain. 

Local applications are of much service in most cases. Calendula 
tincture, one part to three of glycerine, applied to ulcers caused by chil- 
blain, will give relief, and act as a curative; also, extract of hamamelis, one 
part to two of water, applied to chilblain when no ulceration exists. 

[A lotion of one part of oil of turpentine to four parts of olive oil is 
often promptly curative. — Hale.] 

WARTS.— VERMICA. 

Although warts assume so many shapes and appearances, the treat- 
ment is pretty much the same. 

Treatment. — This consists in direct removal. Usually, when large 
enough to get hold of, they may be taken off by means of the scissors or silk 



202 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ligature. Cautery m\y be used. Mercurius corrosivus, two grains to a 
half ounce each of water and alcohol, or of water and tincture of thuja, ap- 
plied two or three times a day, will sometimes remove them without re- 
sorting to the harsher methods. After cutting off the tops, one or two ap- 
plications of carbolic acid will remove them. [The application of the chlo- 
ride of ammonia has been found curative. — Hale.] 

CORN. 

A corn is usually a small, horny formation deeply seated in the skin, 
and painful on pressure. It is caused by ill-fitting shoes or boots. 

Treatment. — Easily-fitting- shoes or boots must be worn, in order to 
either give relief or effect a cure. The corn must be taken out, and this is 
best done after poulticing. Either the knife or a caustic may be used. If 
it is much inflamed or painful, a lotion of arnica tincture or tincture of 
veratrum viride, one part to ten of water, may be applied. 

BUNION. 

This is an inflammation of the large joint of the great or little toe, and 
is caused by the pressure of tight-fitting or narrow-toed shoes, which throw 
the toes together, one over the other, thus producing a sharp angle at the 
joint. It is attended with pain, redness and swelling, and if the cause continues, 
terminates in deformity of the foot, enlarging the joints by deposits 
which hold it permanently in this position. The discomfort attending it is 
so great that every means should be used to cure it in the start, for a bunion 
once formed is permanent, and inflammatory symptoms are liable to occur 
at any time. 

Treatment. — To relieve the first inflammation and prevent the for- 
mation of a bunion, the exciting cause should be removed, the foot and toe 
be placed in as natural a position as possible, and a lotion of arnica be ap- 
plied, one ounce of the tincture to four of water, or a lotion of veratrum 
viride, equal parts of the tincture and water. If pus forms, a poultice of 
linseed meal and poppy leaves may be applied. 

BOIL. 

So common is this disorder, and so varied and yet simple its general 
treatment, that little can be said with which all are not familiar. A boil is 
simply a circumscribed inflammation of the skin, usually resulting in sup- 
puration and the formation and expulsion of a " core." It is attended with 
severe pain, generally of a throbbing nature, and increasing in intensity 



MAN THE SKIN. 203 

until the pus has formed and is discharged. Then all the symptoms of in- 
flammation quickly subside. 

Treatment. — Local applications often afford relief. A dilution of 
tincture of arnica, one part to five of water, applied to the boil during the 
first two or three days, reduces the inflammation. Hot poultices made of 
ground flaxseed and elm, tomatoes, or bread-and-milk, should be applied 
and continued until the "core " comes away, or the inflammation subsides. 

Internal remedies, such as the following, may be given: Belladonna, 
in an early stage, if heat and pain are very great. In a later stage, arnica 
to promote healing and prevent recurrence. Hepar is indicated during the 
inflammation, to hasten suppuration. Silicea, for great disposition to have 
boils. 

Narrow strips of adhesive plaster, drawn tightly over the swelling, 
tend to lessen the inflammation in an early stage. 

FELON— WHITLOW. 

This is an inflammation of a thumb or finger which results in suppura- 
tion. It involves all the structure underlying the skin, and often results in 
the loss of one or more of the bones of the part affected. It has its origin 
in a bruise or other injury, implicates the membrane surrounding the bone, 
and is accompanied with the most excruciating pain, depriving the patient 
of sleep for days and nights together. This pain is throbbing and tensive 
in its character, oftentimes extending to the arm and shoulder, becoming 
more intense when the parts are hanging down, and never ceasing until the 
deposits of pus are discharged, or the death of the parts takes place. The 
last-named issue is often experienced, and there is loss of one or more 
of the joints. The swelling is usually very great, the whole hand and 
wrist being involved, with an appearance of erysipelas, and puffy, swollen 
skin. The pus forms deep in the sheaths of the muscles, or under the 
membrane that covers the bone, and, if allowed to burrow, may cause great 
destruction of the parts. The pain is so intense, and the inflammation 
so great, that severe constitutional symptoms often set in; the patient is 
feverish and unable to sleep, loses his appetite, suffers from aching in the 
head, back and limbs; the face is flushed; the pulse strong and tense; and 
oftentimes there is delirium. 

Phlegmonous abscess, or frog -felon, is a form of inflammation closely 
resembling felon, which occasionally takes place in the palm of the hand. 
It is due to some external violence, such as using a tool to which the hand 
is unaccustomed. It is deep-seated, affecting the tissues underneath, or the 
sheaths of the tendons. As the inflammation progresses, all the parts be- 






204 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

come involved, the swelling extending over a large surface, presenting a 
livid or dark-red color, and attended with intolerable pain for days. The 
ringers are involved and become greatly swollen, stiff and misshapen. This 
difficulty is often called frog-felon, but, while it resembles the felon in many 
of its characteristics and its constitutional disturbances, it differs from it in 
the extensive and phlegmonous character of the inflammation. 

In both of these difficulties, though the direct cause of the inflamma- 
tion seems to lie in an injury to the parts, there must be a depraved state of 
the constitution from a disordered condition of the secretions, especially 
those of the digestive tract. One prominent author expresses the belief 
that it is impossible for felon to occur in a sound constitution. 

Treatment. — In the treatment of whitlow, or felon proper, the 
author just cited says that the great and indispensable remedy is the knife, 
early and freely used, the incision being long and deep, the edge of the 
instrument grating upon the bone. Suppuration is thus anticipated, and the 
structure saved. There is no doubt that this is good practice after pus has 
begun to form, or when the inflammation will not yield to other means; 
but until this point has been reached, the knife should not be used. Often- 
times the early use of applications named below will arrest the trouble, if 
accompanied with proper constitutional treatment. 

In the cure of frog-felon, or inflammation of the palm of the hand, 
the knife should never be applied until such time as the skin alone covers the 
pus; for many times the repeated and indiscriminate use of the knife in 
these cases has resulted in injury and extensive deformity of the parts. 

The first indication of the approach of a felon is a feeling as if a sliver 
or thorn had entered the flesh, accompanied with a stinging and pricking, 
followed by heat, throbbing and pain. Swelling and redness soon come 
on, and, as they increase, the pain becomes more intense until all rest is 
gone. When the first symptom appears, the feeling as of a thorn in the 
flesh, accompanied with soreness on firm pressure, the part affected should 
be covered with a layer of absorbent cotton saturated in the strong tincture 
of lobelia; this should be continued persistently until it entirely relieves the 
trouble. Few cases will fail to yield if taken before there is any deposit 
among the tissues. If this fails to give relief in a reasonable time, and the 
swelling continues, while the pain becomes more intense, the knife should 
be used freely, and the wound dressed with a lotion of calendula. 

The above treatment will apply equally well to the abscess of the 
palm, except the use of the knife; instead of this, the various poultices 
may be used. Poultices may also be applied to a felon, if the patient ob- 
jects to the more " heroic" but better use of the knife. For the various 
kinds of poultices, the reader is referred to the chapter on Nursing. 



MAN THE SKIN. 205 

Ammonium carbonicum taken internally has arrested the inflammation 
and stopped the pain which deprived the patient of sleep. Arsenicum is 
needed when sloughing has taken place; when the parts look gangrenous, 
and burn like fire; and when there is great constitutional derangement. 
Give hepar for violent, throbbing pain; also serviceable for hastening sup- 
puration when it has commenced. Silicea is useful for deep-seated inflam- 
mation; also after sloughing, if the parts are slow in healing. 

When an incision is made for felon, the cut should be in the middle 
line of the ringer, to avoid the arteries which run along the sides. The 
opening should also be made between, not over, the joints, and the knife 
should always be in the hands of a surgeon, if possible. 

A good nourishing diet and everything which would tend to invigor- 
ate the constitution, as exercise and outdoor life, should be had. 

ONYCHIA, INGROWING NAIL AND " RUN-ROUND." 

A mild but distressing form of whitlow, known as " run-round," con- 
sists in an inflammation at the sides and root of the nail, which results in sup- 
puration and sometimes loss of the nail. It is caused by cutting the nail 
too close, by a bruise or other mechanical injury, or by an ingrowing nail. 

When pus forms, it should be let out as soon as possible. When 
caused by ingrowing nail, the nail causing the trouble should be allowed to 
grow out beyond the toe. Never cut the edge that grows into the flesh; 
pare the upper surface well, and make the center thin; soften the parts with 
warm water; raise the edge of the nail and keep it elevated by placing un- 
der it a small wedge of lint or cotton. When inflammation is severe and 
there is a tendency to formation of pus, apply poultices. [After paring the 
surface and trimming the center, make a V-shaped cut in the middle. — 
Hale.] 

CARBUNCLE. 

This distressing disorder consists in a circumscribed inflammation of 
the intermediate cellular tissue of the skin, and the fibers beneath. Its 
gravity depends largely on the size (which varies from one inch to six in 
diameter), and on the general condition of the constitution of the patient. 
Under any circumstances, it is of serious import, and as it often attacks peo- 
ple past middle life, and those with low recuperative powers from a broken- 
down or low state of the system, it should command attention in the start. 
Some idea can be formed of its fatal character, when accompanying ex- 
hausting diseases, from statistics of 1854, which show that there were nearly 
four hundred deaths from carbuncle in England alone. 

The disorder commences with a circumscribed inflammation, varying 



206 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

in size, with some burning pain and redness in the affected parts; more or 
less constitutional disturbance, as fever, headache, thirst, and foul tongue. 
As the disease progresses, the spot becomes hard and swollen, assuming a 
purplish hue, accompanied with a tense, pressing pain; the surface after a 
few days softens; pus forms and exudes through several small openings, 
which after a time join, and the whole mass sloughs out, leaving an ugly, 
slowly-healing ulcer. In some cases, if the destruction of tissue is extensive 
and the patient is very much reduced, it continues to break down, gangrene 
sets in, and the patient sinks rapidly from exhaustion and blood-poisoning. 

The favorite locality for this disease is the nape of the neck and shoul- 
ders, though it is often found on the buttocks, forehead, and wrists. It is 
more prevalent in winter than in summer, and sometimes prevails to such 
an extent as to assume an epidemic tendency. The prevention of carbun- 
cle, when threatened, is of the greatest importance, and if the means recom- 
mended below to accomplish this should prove ineffectual, they will have so 
modified the trouble as to greatly lessen its importance and danger. 

Treatment. — As soon as there is evidence of trouble of this kind, 
cut straps of adhesive plaster, which is applied with heat, into strips varying 
in width according to the size of the swelling, but usually one -half inch, 
and long enough to reach from side to side, beyond the hardness felt under 
the skin; heat them well, attach at one side and draw firmly and evenly 
around the base of the swelling; so continue until the whole surface is cov- 
ered, except a small spot at the apex half an inch or less in diameter. 
These straps should be removed every day and the surface of the carbuncle 
be bathed in warm water, new pieces being then applied. If such adhesive 
plaster is not procurable, a good quality of rubber plaster may be obtained, 
but it, of course, does not require heat in its application. 

If pus has not already formed, this treatment will often dissipate the 
swelling without suppuration taking place. A carbuncle commences with 
an inflammation of the intermediate tissue, resulting in engorgement of the 
capillaries, impeded circulation therein, the destruction of the tissues, and 
formation of pus. The larger surface we have involved, or the more ex- 
tensive the capillary engorgement, the greater will be the extent of dis- 
integration. Any means, therefore, that will reduce the former will lessen 
or prevent the latter. When the straps are applied to the surface, the pres- 
sure exerted forces the blood out of the capillaries, relieves the engorgement, 
and stops the inflammation, thus narrowing down the surface involved. 
Many times, to the writer's certain knowledge, this has prevented the for- 
mation of the abscess, or has confined it to insignificant limits. This treat- 
ment should be continued, though pus may form and sloughing follow, to 
confine the diseased parts as much as possible. The space between the 



MAN THE SKIN. 207 

plasters, at the apex of the swelling, may be covered with a cerate of 
Phytolacca until the pus has reached the outside skin, at which stage an in- 
cision should be made to let out the pus. When the slough has come out, 
the ulcer should be cleansed and the edges be drawn as nearly together as 
possible, except a small opening for the escape of the secretions. In some 
cases, either from long standing or from a very low state of the system, the 
sloughing may be very extensive, and the ulcer may require a long time to 
heal by granulation. Such healing can be hastened by applying a lotion of 
chloride of zinc, a grain in an ounce of water; or one of calendula, one part 
of the tincture to two parts of water. Before their use, the ulcer should be 
cleansed with castile soap and water. 

Aconite may be given internally to allay the fever which arises from the 
severe inflammation. Apis, when there is an erysipelatous inflammation 
which is disposed to spread. Arsenicum is especially adapted to the disorder, 
since it not only exerts a specific action on the local trouble, but also influ- 
ences the constitutional condition which is the primary cause of the difficulty. 
The special symptomatic indications for its use are large, painful and malig- 
nant carbuncle; great prostration; small, quick pulse; excessive burning, as 
though the parts were covered with hot coals; signs of mortification; when 
the carbuncle is the result of contagion. Silicea is of service when slough- 
ing is great and granulation is slow. 

Since the disease is the result of a low state of the system, every means 
should be used to build up the blood and invigorate the body. To do this, 
a good nourishing diet, such as the conditions of the case will tolerate, should 
be used. Essence of beef, cod-liver oil, eggs, milk, koumiss, and Murdock's 
Liquid Food, may each and all be found of value. The last preparation 
mentioned in the list consists of the juices of fruits and meats, and is so 
combined as to be readily assimilated. It possesses wonderful properties in 
building up low states of the system. The use of water cannot be com- 
mended too highly in the prevention of this disease, and the skin of people 
suffering from a reduced system should be bathed frequently with cold water 
containing sea-salt, followed by brisk rubbing to promote free capillary cir- 
culation. Take exercise in the open air as much as is possible or prudent. 

BED-SORES. 

Bed-sores are the result of long-continued irritation of certain parts of 
the body by lying on them. They are not a disease in themselves, but are 
the accompaniment of low fevers, consumption, old age, or injuries, when 
the body has become very much emaciated and weakened. 

Treatment. — This should consist largely in prevention, for when once 



208 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

formed, they add much to the suffering and depletion of the patient, and are 
rarely relieved until he is comparatively restored to health. When 
patients are obliged to lie continually or a great deal in one position, the 
parts in contact with the bed should be examined daily, be bathed in 
tepid water and dried with a soft towel, being afterward rubbed gently 
with glycerine or vaseline cream. The clothing should be kept strictly 
clean, and if possible, the position of the patient should be changed so as to 
relieve the contact on the parts. 

If redness and soreness take place, relieve the pressure on the sensitive 
spot with a padded cushion or air-pillow, so made as not to touch the 
affected part, a ring being the preferable form, so thick that when the body 
or sore member rests upon it, the sore will not be presse d through to the 
bed. It should be filled with hair, or inflated with air. If the sore has 
formed and the surface is broken, it should be protected by adhesive straps 
medicated with arnica or calendula, and be sponged daily with water and 
carbolic or thymol soap. 

WEN AND WEEPING SINEW. 

A wen is a little tumor on the face or scalp which results from an en- 
largement of a sebaceous gland. At first, the opening of the duct may be 
seen, and a little white, curdy matter may be pressed out. In a later stage, 
the duct becomes filled and the wen is a sac of sebaceous matter, varying 
from the size of a pea to that of a walnut, being flattened or hemispherical, 
movable, and attended with little or no pain. The treatment consists in a 
simple surgical removal, preferably by a physician. 

A weeping sinew, sometimes improperly called a wen, is a tumor in 
the sheath of a tendon, more commonly on the back of the wrist or upper 
part of the foot. It varies from the size of a pea to that of a hen's egg, and 
always contains fluid. The treatment consists in a sharp blow with a book 
or other hard instrument, the earlier applied the better. Should this fail, 
visit a physician. After the treatment, wear a compress for some time. 
Those who are subject to the disorder in the wrist ^should wear a webbing 
or rubber band around the wrist to relieve the tendons. 

CHAPPED HANDS AND LIPS. 

These disorders are well treated with glycerine and compound tincture 
of benzoin, equal parts, rubbed on one to three times a day. Those who 
suffer from these affections can keep the preparation in the house. Glycer- 
ine is good for some people, though not all, but there is great difficulty in 
getting it in a pure state. Pure vaseline is excellent. Though it may be 



MAN THE SKIN. 



209 



disagreeable to use, sweet oil may be put on the surface when going into 
the wind. If one will use a good article of carbolic soap at the toilet, he 
will be very well protected against the affection. There are those who 
suffer intensely from cracked and even ulcerated skin, and allow soil to 
accumulate and hard, thick scabs to form because of the pain in washing. 
They should scald some wheat bran or Indian meal at night, slowly soften 
up the hardened skin and soak off the dirt by bathing the parts in it while 
it is quite warm, then use some of the above means before going out in the 
morning. 

[The following preparation, known as "Sedative Saxoline", is the best 
application I have ever used for all irritable conditions of the skin: — Pure 
vaseline, one ounce; pulverized boracic acid, twenty grains; balsam Peru, 
thirty drops. — Hale.] 




H 




42. The Urinary Organs. 

C C Kidneys. D, D, Ureters. F, Bladder. A, Spine. 4, Aorta, with two branches supplying the 
Kidneys. '2, 2, Diaphragm. 1, I, Mucous Lining of the Abdomen, turned back. 



210 




CHAPTER VIII. 
THE URINARY ORGANS. 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

JHE first of the urinary organs are the kidneys, two bean-shaped 

fc glands, located on either side of the spine, below the liver and 
spleen described under the organs of digestion. They are dense 
?^r<) and firm, yet very delicate in structure, copiously supplied with 
blood-vessels, each weighing from four to six ounces. The urine is sepa- 
rated from the blood by the kidneys, from which it passes through minute 
canals, called ureters, into the bladder. 

The bladder is an elastic sac, oblong when distended, capable of retain- 
ing, without injury, fifteen or sixteen ounces, in an ordinary adult, and is 
located in the lower part of the abdomen. The bladder receives and re- 
tains the urine, ready for its discharge from the body, through a canal called 
the urethra. 

Under ordinary circumstances, in health, the kidneys of an adult will 
secrete about two or two and one-half pints of urine in twenty-four hours, 
though this amount may, without indicating disease, vary considerably, ac- 
cording to habits, diet, and the temperature of the weather. When the 
body is active, as during the day, the bladder should be emptied as often as 
once in five or six hours. The calls of nature for the voiding of the urine 
should be promptly heeded, as serious results follow their neglect. 

The organs described above are subject to their disorders, which one 
should study with due care, and upon which the physician should be con- 
sulted as freely and frankly as upon the disorders of any other organs of 
the body. Some general observations of value upon the urine, such as 
should be noted by all, are made in Chapter II. 

DIFFICULT URINATION.— STRANGURY. 

In this there is difficulty in passing water, with frequent desire to do 
so, accompanied by burning, spasmodic pain located in the bladder and ex- 
tending to the outer end of the urinary passage, around the hips and down 

211 



212 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the thighs, with a pressing, smarting sensation during and after a discharge. 
It is caused by some disease of the bladder or its canal ; in children, by 
worms. When the disease becomes chronic, the character of the urine is 
changed, and it often contains mucus and pus. 

Treatment. — Since this difficulty is a symptom of some disease, its 
treatment will depend upon the cause, and care should be taken to ascertain 
the special condition which may produce the trouble, and to treat it accord- 
ingly. The accessory treatment would apply in any case, whatever the 
cause, and its successful management depends largely on the diet, and the 
use of mucilaginous drinks. 

Aconite. — When the trouble arises from a cold. Cantharis, for fre- 
quent, painful desire to pass urine, with burning, and with or without in- 
flammation of the parts. Give nux vomica for spasm of the neck of the 
bladder, with aching in the back and hips, and frequent desire to pass urine. 
Give lycopodium when the urine deposits a brick-dust or reddish sediment, 
and especially if little particles of grit are found in the vessel. Apis, if 
there be difficulty in passing urine. Cina or santonine, when worms are 
the cause. 

The warm hip-bath is an excellent accessorv to the treatment, and 
often relieves without other aids; but, as this disorder is simply a symptom 
depending upon other causes, these causes should be sought out and removed, 
that the bladder may regain its tone. 

INVOLUNTARY PASSAGE OF URINE. 

This troublesome disorder is not a specific disease, but it has various 
causes. It maybe the result of complete loss of power in the bladder to re- 
tain the urine, thus allowing it to escape involuntarily. This is especially 
the case in the aged, and is the result of mechanical irritation, pressure on 
the bladder, stone in the bladder, or an enlargement of the gland at its 
neck. It is largely confined to children, and is the result of worms, debil- 
itated constitution, drinking large quantities of warm fluids, improper food 
or drink, indolence, and a bad habit; the latter, however, being met with 
quite seldom as a primary cause. The difficultv is usually worse at night; 
children who suffer from it sleep very soundly and much good may arise 
from taking them up the second hour of sleep. 

Treatment. — In its treatment the first thing necessary is to ascertain, 
if possible, the special cause of the irritation, and to remove it. This un- 
doubtedly would necessitate procuring medical aid. In many cases the 
cause is quite apparent, and may be removed by attention to a few simple 
rules. If caused by worms, the patient should be treated for them, and the 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 213 

reader is referred to the article on that subject. If resulting from a debil- 
itated constitution, means should be taken to invigorate the body and build 
it up. Gelseminum is indicated in a relaxed or paralytic condition of the 
muscle at the opening of the bladder. Nux vomica is needed for constipa- 
tion and inability to retain the urine. Give cantharis when there is an 
urgent desire to pass urine during the day, with burning and irritation in 
the canal leading from the bladder. Chamomilla is indicated in cases 
found in teething children, with irritable temper, sallow skin and diarrhoea. 

[No remedy is more efficacious than oil of turpentine, in small doses, 
two drops every four hours. — Hale. J 

The bladder should be trained to retain urine during the day. The 
diet should be simple, avoiding all salt, sharp and sour articles of food, also 
liquor, spirits, tea and coffee. Meat may be eaten sparingly, but nothing 
hot should be taken in the after part of the day. Simple cold water, milk- 
and-water, and cocoa are the best drinks. The bladder should always be 
emptied before getting into bed, and, until the cause of the trouble is 
removed, this should be repeated once or twice during the night. Children 
who wet the bed should sleep on a hard mattress, with light covering, and 
be prevented from lying on the back as much as possible ; this can be ac- 
complished by attaching some hard appliance to the back so as to press on 
the muscles when the child attempts to lie in this position. Bathing is 
highly beneficial, by sponging the back with cold water and then rubbing 
it with a coarse towel. The cold compress placed over the bladder on 
retiring at night is often beneficial in the cases arising from loss of power 
in the bladder to retain the urine; also when indolence and bad habits are 
causes. Exercise in the open air should be encouraged. 

RETENTION OF URINE. 

This consists in an obstruction of the discharge of the urine from the 
bladder after it has been secreted by the kidneys. It is easily distinguished 
from suppression of urine by the distension of the bladder, which can be 
felt at the bottom of the abdomen, the bladder being flat and empty in 
suppression. Retention of the urine is due to some disorder of the bladder, 
or of the canal which leads out of it. The causes are indulgence in drink, 
retaining the urine too long, exposure to cold, spasmodic stricture in per- 
sons suffering from gleety discharges, or from an abnormal condition of the 
urine, and, in old men, from an enlargement of the gland at the neck of 
the bladder. 

Treatment. — The treatment, in addition to the medicines recom- 
mended below, will consist in persistent and thorough application of warm 



214 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

baths, warm fomentations, and mild, bland drinks. Injections into the 
bowels aid in establishing the functions of the parts. These aids alone are 
sometimes all that is necessary. In cases which do not yield to remedies, 
as those resulting from enlargement of the gland at the neck of the blad- 
der, from permanent contraction of the canal leading from the bladder, or 
from over-distension of the bladder, application for the use of the catheter 
should be at once made to a competent physician. The diet should be light 
and consist of barley-water, gum-water, and other diluents. 

Aconite should be given if there be much inflammation, pain and 
fever. Cantharis, for constant urging to urinate, with cutting pain. Nux 
vomica, for painful, ineffectual efforts to urinate, caused by spirits, or by. 
spasmodic contractions. Camphor is indicated by spasm at the neck of the 
bladder, with feelings of chilliness. 

STONE OR GRAVEL. 

This term is applied by the non-professional to nearly all difficulties of 
the urinary tract. It is not the intention to give here a full treatment of the 
disorder, but rather some of the leading symptoms by which it may be 
recognized, leaving its management to skilled hands. Gravel is a deposit 
or sediment in the kidneys or bladder, and may be passed in minute par- 
ticles without causing any serious trouble; but when the granules become 
lodged and added one to another, they form what is commonly called stone. 
The stones are made up of the ingredients of the urine, and may form at 
any age, from boyhood to old age, though most common between the ages 
of fifty-five and seventy-five. The leading symptoms of stone are frequent 
passage of urine during the day and less frequent at night, and greatly in- 
creased by violent exercise, riding on horseback and the like; pain during 
and after passing urine, near the outer opening of the urinary organs, and a 
continuous desire for a time after the discharge to repeat it, the urine some- 
times stopping suddenly during the flow. There are generally mucus and 
blood, and frequently, after severe exercise, blood is passed in considerable 
quantities. 

Treatment. — This disease usually arises from disordered digestion, 
and attention should be given to correcting any derangement of this func- 
tion. Cider is said to relieve some forms, but milk is undoubtedly the 
best drink. Sugar, fatty matter, alcohol, tea, coffee, strong beer, cham- 
pagne, and the like, should be strictly avoided. 

[There are two medicines which have lately been successfully used for 
dissolving stone, namely : The granular salts of citrate of lithia, a teaspoon- 
ful three times a day in a glass of soft water; and the fluid extract of 
hydrangea, thirty drops four times a day. — Hale.] 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 215 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

This disease, in the acute form, is quite rare, except when it is the 
result of wounds, stone in the bladder, the introduction of instruments, or 
poison from disease. Occasionally, however, it proceeds from cold or 
damp. The chronic form is more common. It is usually due to inability 
of the bladder to completely empty itself of the urine, either from loss of 
muscular power, or enlargement of the gland at the neck of the bladder. 
The urine thus retained decomposes and acts as an irritant to the coats of 
the bladder. There is some pain over the region of the bladder, constant 
desire to void urine, with straining and much suffering. There is usually 
an abundant discharge of mucus, sometimes tinged with blood, this being 
especially the case in the chronic form. After standing in a vessel a short 
time and then being emptied, a large quantity of ropy mucus follows the 
urine in a mass, oftentimes exceeding a pint in twenty-four hours. 

Treatment. — In the acute form, hot fomentations should be applied 
to the abdomen to relieve the pain, and rest in the horizontal posture be 
secured. A warm hip-bath, an abdominal compress, wet in turpentine- water, 
and mucilaginous drinks, promote recovery. The bladder should be washed 
out with small quantities of tepid water, which should be injected very 
gently into that organ, after the urine has been voided, and then allowed 
to flow off. 

Aconite. — When in the acute form and the result of cold. Cantharis 
is needed in alternation with aconite if there is much burning in passing 
urine, with constant desire to void it. This remedy is especially adapted to 
the chronic form. Belladonna is useful if there is much nervous irritabil- 
ity. Mercurius solubilis, if resulting from venereal disease, and in any case 
may be a valuable adjunct. The diet should be light, and stimulants 
should be strictly avoided by those who are subject to the disorder. 

[An infusion of galium (cleavers) or triticum repens (dog's-grass) 
greatly aids other treatment. If there is a mucous sediment, chimiphila 
(pipsisewa), or tincture eucalyptus (five drops every six hours) will remove 
it. — Hale.] 

ALBUMINURIA. 

This disease is a morbid condition of the urine, characterized by the 
presence in it of albumen, a substance which forms a large portion of the 
constituents of the body. This condition of the urine is generally a symp- 
tom of disease of the kidneys, though not always. It may exist for a short 
time without indicating disease of those organs. It is always present in 
Bright's Disease of the kidneys, but does not constitute that disease. It does 
not come under the domain of domestic treatment, but since it often follows 



216 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

other diseases, as scailet fever, measles, typhoid fever, and small-pox, we 
give a description of its characteristics and the manner of its detection. 
The symptoms are quite marked, such as debility, pallor of the surface, 
waxy and swollen face, loss of appetite, nausea, and frequent vomiting; 
and later, when the blood has become poisoned by means of the kidneys 
failing to excrete the urea, there will be poor sight, delirium, convulsions, 
deep sleep, and death. The disease is usually slow in its progress, and 
sometimes is not discovered until dropsy sets in. In the commencement, 
the urine is usually profuse, afterward growing less in quantity until the 
kidneys fail entirely to perform their function. At first, the urine may be 
of a dark or smoky color, due to the escape of the red portion of the 
blood ; but usually it is pale, and when exposed to the test for albumen the 
following results are obtained: Having filled a test-tube say half-full of 
urine, slowly raise it to the boiling point over a flame, and boil it thus for a 
few seconds; if albumen is present in any considerable quantity, the urine 
will have a milky or cloudy appearance. Now add a few drops of dilute 
nitric acid, and, if this cloudy substance be albumen, it will settle to the 
bottom in a dirty-white sediment, while the urine again becomes clear. 
The amount of albumen can thus be determined each day, the extent of 
the deposit being the gauge. 

Treatment. — This disorder should command prompt attention, and, as 
it is usually the result of an obstruction of the healthy action of the skin, 
the functions of the latter should be established as soon as possible. This 
can be accomplished by producing free perspiration by means of the cold 
or hot pack. 

Aconite is useful in the first stage, if there is much fever. Give arsen- 
icum for pale, waxy skin, dropsical condition, thirst and scanty urine. 
Apocynum for scanty urine and dropsy. Mercurius corrosivus is well 
adapted to the disease, especially when following scarlet fever and accom- 
panied by scanty, bloody urine, with frequent but vain desire to make stools, 
delirium, and heavy sleep. 

DIABETES. 

There is a great diversity of opinions upon the questions as to the 
causes of this disease and the organs involved in it. Post-mortem examina- 
tions have been made with varying results. One case may exhibit no 
lesion of any organ, while in another all the organs and functions of the 
body are implicated in the general derangement. Some suppose it is due 
to deranged digestion; others, to some abnormal condition of the liver; 
others, to an affection of the nervous system; others, to changed chemical 
action in the blood ; still others, to some peculiar condition of the kidneys. 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 2 17 

The last is, however, generally denied, though the excessive flow of urine 
is one of its main local manifestations. Neither does the quantity of water 
taken as a drink account for this great excess of urine, for the discharges of 
the latter often largely exceed the amount of both fluids and solids taken 
into the stomach in a given time. Whatever the cause, or the organs 
affected, the great changes which obviously occur exert a vital influence 
upon the whole body. The disease takes rank among the most formidable, 
and should command the earliest and most earnest attention. The symp- 
toms are often so obscure that its existence is not known for some time after 
its invasion, perhaps for months; hence the importance of having some 
knowledge of its characteristics, so that one may the more readily suspect 
its approach, and seek the requisite skill for its treatment. It is the present 
purpose to impart such knowledge. 

The main symptom, and the one usually first to attract attention, is 
the excessive thirst and large flow of urine. In health, the quantity of 
urine passed by an adult in twenty-four hours is about forty ounces, or two 
and a half pints, with a specific gravity of 1015 to 1020. In saccharine 
diabetes, it may exceed twenty pints in the same time, and will have a 
specific gravity of 1025 to 1040. At the latter rate, the sugar thrown off 
in the urine would amount to nearly two and two-thirds pounds each day, 
and a patient would thus discharge in a few weeks a quantity of sugar 
equaling in weight his whole body. When the functions of the animal 
economy by which the sugar is used up in the blood are thus at fault, the 
result to the system must be a great physical change and constitutional dis- 
turbance, even though the amount of sugar passed should be far less than 
that named above. We recognize two forms of the disease: 

1. Diabetes Insipidus consists in an excessive flow of clear, colorless 
urine, containing no sugar, generally due to some nervous disorder, accom- 
panying hysteria in particular. This form is of little moment, and, being 
a symptom instead of an independent disorder, usually yields when the 
primary difficulty is treated. 

2. Diabetes Mellitus is marked by an excessive amount of urine which 
contains an abundance of sugar, and by some constitutional disturbance. It 
is this form which we are now considering. It usually comes on with a 
feeling of lassitude, gradual loss of strength, and a sense of general weak- 
ness. This condition may not be so marked as to occasion apprehension 
until there be a loss of flesh and other symptoms. The patient afterward 
experiences an increased flow of urine, with thirst which becomes almost 
intolerable as the disease progresses; the tongue becomes red and cracked, 
its papilla? being enlarged; the mouth is dry and sticky, with a sweetish 
taste; the breath gives out an odor somewhat like that of chloroform; the 



218 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

appetite increases; there is a sense of sinking at the stomach; the bowels 
are sluggish, their contents being dry, hard, and passed with difficulty; the 
skin is dry and harsh; the hands and feet burn; the hair falls out; the body 
becomes greatly emaciated; the heart's action is involved; the temperature 
of the body is lowered, sometimes going down to 94. During the 
development of these symptoms, the urine increases, its specific gravity be- 
ing higher and its density greater from the sugar deposited in it, and it has, 
when evaporated, a sweetish smell, like that of new hay or milk. Of the 
various methods of testing urine for sugar, we present two which will at 
once detect the sugar if it is present in any considerable quantity. 

(1). Trommer's test is most often applied, and is as follows: Fill a 
test-tube half-full of urine; add two or three drops of a solution of sulphate 
of copper (blue vitriol) to make it slightly blue; then add liquor potassas 
enough to clear it by re-dissolving the precipitate which at first forms ; let it 
now boil up once over a flame. If sugar be present, there will be a red- 
dish-brown precipitate of the sub-oxide of copper; but if there be no sugar, 
the precipitate will be a black oxide of copper. 

(2). The second test is this: Fill a test-tube half-full of a mixture of 
one part of liquor potassas and two parts of urine, and boil it over a flame 
a short time. If sugar be present, the mixture will take on a yellowish- 
brown color, which becomes more pronounced as the boiling continues. 
If the urine has a large proportion of sugar, it will become almost black 
or very dark brown. 

If these tests be applied to the urine of diabetes insipidus, the results 
will be the same as when they are used on healthy urine; that is, Trom- 
mer's test will produce a deposit of black oxide of copper, and the potassae- 
test does not change the color of the urine. Another means of distinguish- 
ing the two forms of diabetes is found in the specific gravity of the urine, 
upon which the reader is referred to the remarks on " The Urine " in 
Chapter II. If sugar exists, the specific gravity is above normal, never be- 
ing below 1025, and usually reaching 1035 to 1040, according to the amount 
of sugar. In diabetes insipidus, on the other hand, the specific gravity is 
below normal, going down perhaps to 1007. 

Treatment. — In the treatment of this disease, much importance at- 
taches to the condition of the digestive functions, and a large proportion of 
medical men make the diet the main consideration. When starch is taken 
into the system, it is changed into sugar by a peculiar action of the liver. 
Hence, an effort is made to exclude those articles which contain starch, and 
to supply those which abound in nutritive properties, such as fat meats, fish, 
oysters, eggs, milk, good soups thickened with finely powdered bran, cocoa 
prepared from the nibs, and lettuce with oil and vinegar. From the list of 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 219 

approved foods, those are selected which best agree with the individual pa- 
tient. As a substitute for ordinary bread, cakes and bread are made of 
bran, or of ground-almond powder, or of gluten and bran, eight parts of the 
former to two of the latter. 

Trousseau says : " Clinical observation has shown that vegetable food 
increases, while an almost exclusively animal diet diminishes, the quantity 
of sugar which diabetic patients pass in the urine. This is not because 
when we keep patients on an animal diet we deprive them of the aliment- 
ary substances which furnish saccharine matter in greatest abundance. We 
have seen that saccharine matter is produced when the diet is animal, as well 
as when it is vegetable, though in less quantity; we have also seen that 
sugar taken as an aliment is transformed in the liver into a special substance 
very different from diabetic sugar, and that the latter is exclusively a hepatic 
[liver] excretion. An animal diet suits diabetic patients better than a vege- 
table diet, because the latter, particularly when it is feculent, increases the 
excess of functional activity both of the liver and kidneys — it is because 
vegetables are more diuretic than animal substances, as is shown by a much 
larger quantity of urine being passed by herbivorous than by carnivorous 
animals. The precept laid down by Rollo, and followed since his day, of 
giving diabetic patients a diet as nitrogenous as possible, is in accordance 
with the teachings of physiology. Nevertheless, it is necessary to guard 
against adopting extreme views, and believing that diabetes demands an 
exclusively animal regimen, involving rigorous abstinence from every other 
kind of food. In fact, you will meet with diabetic patients who pass very 
little glucose in their urine, whilst they adhere to a regimen consisting only 
of green vegetables containing a large quantity of chlorophylle, such as 
spinach, sorrel, cabbage, and cress; nay, even when they take acid fruits, 
such as currants, raspberries, and cherries. In a disease in which disturb- 
ance of the nutritive function plays unquestionably a leading part, it is of 
the utmost importance to avoid everything which migdit increase that dis- 
turbance; and, consequently, it is necessary to vary the food so as not to 
induce loathing, a speedy effect of the exclusive use of the same kind of 
aliment. * * Though an exclusively animal diet immediately diminishes 
the thirst and excessive diuresis [flow of urine], it soon occasions intoler- 
able loathing, and the health of the patient, which had seemed to be im- 
proving, is again deranged, and indeed becomes worse than it had been 
previously. On the other hand, however, if we rest satisfied with greatly 
diminishing the proportion of feculent nutriment, and allow the use of fruits 
and green vegetables, both appetite and strength are maintained." The same 
author remarks that a large quantity of glucose, or sugar, may be passed in the 
urine for years with hardly any derangement of health, and he recommends 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

that, to those who cannot conveniently exclude bread from their diet, a 
small allowance of it be given, that made of rve or wheat being admissible, 
but not that made of gluten. 

Skimmed milk has accomplished such good results that it is spoken of 
separately, not only as an article of diet, but also as an agent for reducing 
the quantity of urine and the amount of sugar therein. In one case re- 
ported, the patient took five pints a day for six weeks, and at the end of 
tliat time the urine decreased in quantity, while the specific gravity fell 
from 1040 to 1017, the patient meanwhile growing stronger and increasing 
in weight. Experience has shown, however, that, in order to derive benefit 
from its use, it should constitute the exclusive diet, and be given in the same 
quantities at stated intervals. Seven or even ten pints may be taken each 
day, divided into regular meals. Koumiss will accomplish the same results 
as the milk, and is sometimes preferable, as determined by trial. After the 
milk-diet has been used about six weeks, if the usual improvement has 
been experienced, the ordinary diabetic diet may be substituted. 

Acidum phosphoricum has effected great results in an early stage, be- 
fore the constitutional symptoms have become extreme. The special 
symptoms indicating its use are frequent urging? to urinate, pain in the back 
and loins, emaciation, and sense of great weakness. 

Uranium nitrate or muriate, in connection with acidum phosphoricum, 
has reduced the quantity of urine from tour quarts to three pints in four 
months, and the specific gravity from 104S to 1025. In connection with 
bromide of potassa, it has changed the urine from six quarts in twenty-four 
hours, with a specific gravity of 103S, to two and a half pints, with a spe- 
cific gravity of 1023, this great change being effected in six weeks. 

The saline waters, such as Vichy, Carlsbad, and Bethesda, have done 
much good, and can generally be taken with benefit. Water should be 
used freely, both to quench thirst and to eliminate the sugar from the blood. 
Nor can too much be easilv said in favor of the use of water on the bodv. 
Warm baths should be taken daily, followed bv brisk rubbing. Exercise 
in the open air is invaluable, and should be taken as freely as the strength 
wrill warrant. The patient should be encouraged to take a hopeful view of 
his case, and, as far as possible, he should know only its bright side. 

BRIGHT'S DISEASE. 

This lisease, known also as nephritis and inflammation of the kidnevs. 
is not properly within the domain of domestic practice, because of the in- 
sidious manner of its approach, the obscurity of the symptoms in the earlier 
a js, and its grave nature generally. Yet its growing prevalence and 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 221 

the necessity of prompt attention demand the most careful study by all, that it 
may be detected in an early stage, and thus means be taken for its relief at 
a time when they will be of avail. It is both acute and chronic. The 
acute form arises from some special and sudden influence, as exposure to 
cold, the effects of fevers, particularly scarlet fever, irritating drugs, and 
alcohol. The chronic form follows neglected cases of the acute type, bad 
living, intemperance, constant exposure to wet, working in lead, as in paint- 
ing and plumbing, and constitutional disease, such as gout and scrofula. 

Acute Bright's Disease generally comes on suddenly, and is marked by 
fever; dry, harsh skin; quick pulse; puffiness of the eyelids; thirst; nausea,* 
as the disease advances, decrease in the quantity of urine; dropsical symp- 
toms develop; the face becomes bloated, shiny and waxy; as the case 
advances, nausea, vomiting and thirst are intense; the eyesight is impaired; 
the urine is almost entirely suppressed, is passed with severe burning pain 
and frequent urging, and has a dark or muddy-brown appearance; con- 
vulsions and death ensue, if relief is not given. This type often follows 
scarlet fever, either from the action of the scarlatinal poison on the kidneys, 
or from exposure to cold during the scaling process. Mild cases of scarlet 
fever should be especially watched, and the patient be carefully guarded 
against exposure to cold. The urine should be frequently examined for 
albumen during this fever, the manner of doing which is described in the 
article on Albuminuria. 

Chronic Bright's Disease is usually more insidious, coming on slowly, 
and attended w T ith a general impairment of health, pallor of the face, debil- 
ity, and pain in the loins. Such a condition may continue some time with- 
out pronounced indications of disorder in the kidneys; but eventually there 
will be a frequent desire to pass urine, particularly at night, the quantity 
being increased for a time, but decreasing as the disease progresses. In these 
later stages, the face is pallid, swollen and waxy; the appetite is impaired; 
there is nausea, with acid or acrid risings from the stomach, and, after a 
time, severe vomiting, this condition being apparently independent of the 
kind of diet used. The urine is light-colored or smoky, and usually has a 
specific gravity below 1015 at the commencement, and going down as low 
as 1004 in the late stages, being then almost suppressed and of a pale sickly 
color. The disease is slow in its progress, but is none the less alarming. 
The kidneys becoming unable to carry off the urea, the latter enters the 
blood as a virulent poison, so affecting the nervous system as to induce delir- 
ium, convulsions, coma and death. This poison also invades the serous 
membranes, the sac which envelops the heart, or the heart itself, inducing 
disease in these parts, dropsy, and death from valvular derangement. 

In either form of this disease, the kidneys will undergo more or less 



222 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

organic change, and too much pains cannot be taken to gain an early knowl- 
edge of its approach. Though some remarks on treatment are made for 
those who cannot secure the best medical aid, we wish to impress on all 
that it is of the highest importance for them to seek the most thorough 
knowledge and treatment that are within reach. 

Treatment.— The treatment of the acute and chronic forms is essen- 
tially the same. An examination of the urine should be made daily to 
determine the amount of albumen thrown off (see Albuminuria), and mi- 
croscopical tests should be made to ascertain the extent of the organic degen- 
eration of the kidneys. In the acute form, accompanied with fever, give 
aconite, but discontinue it as soon as the fever disappears. When the urine 
is scanty, and mixed with blood, benefit arises from one to five drops of tur- 
pentine every two to four hours. Belladonna is efficacious in acute cases, 
and whenever there are flushed face and great bearing-down pain. There 
is little doubt, however, that mercurius corrosivus is the most valuable of 
all remedies in both the acute and chronic forms, its leading indications being 
frequent urging desire to urinate; scanty and bloody urine; albumen in the 
urine; rapid degeneration of the kidneys. Acidum phosphoricum is also 
good for rapid breaking down of the kidneys, and for loss of blood as 
indicated by paleness, with a general decline of strength and spirits. 

Baths, if properly used, are of great service, since they tend to carry off 
through the skin the fluids whose elimination is generally thrown upon the 
kidneys, and also to free the blood of the poisons which are generated or 
retained as the result of imperfect action of the kidnevs. The importance 
of baths in this disease leads to a repetition here of some remarks about 
applying them, which are made in another chapter. 

If the patient is strong and his powers of reaction are good, the cold 
pack and hip-bath may be used. First let the patient sit from three to five 
minutes in a tub partially filled with water at a temperature of /O c ; wring 
out a sheet in water of the same temperature and wrap the patient in it 
from head to foot, covering with several thicknesses of woolen blankets; 
it the feet remain cold, put a hot-water bag or bottle to them. In fifteen or 
twenty minutes the patient will become warm and soon break out in a 
profuse perspiration. Let him remain in the pack an hour and a half to 
two hours; after he comes out, sponge him with cold water and rub him 
thoroughly with dry towels. If reaction should not be prompt, and the 
patient should remain cold or chilly after being in the pack, the hot-water 
pack should be used as follows: — Let the patient sit in a tub of water at 
102°, with the feet in a pail of water at the same temperature, a woolen 
blanket being closely wrapped around the tub, pail, and the body of the 
patient up to the neck. Continue this from three to five minutes; then 



MAN THE URINARY ORGANS. 223 

place the patient in the bed, enveloped in the blanket and covered with 
several other thicknesses. Perspiration will usually be profuse. If the 
patient seems weak after this, a small quantity of stimulants of some kind 
may be given. 

Vapor baths are also beneficial, and are applied as follows: — Envelop 
the patient in a sheet wrung out in warm water, then wrap three or four 
thicknesses of dry blankets closely around him. Let him remain thus for 
twenty minutes to a half-hour, and then quickly dry him with towels and 
wrap him in blankets. 

Cold sponging and friction with a bath-towel are highly useful. Rub- 
bing with a dry salted towel is also good. Dip a towel in a solution of 
water and the sea-salt which can be obtained at a drug-store ; let it dry, 
shake off any grains of salt that may adhere to it, and rub the body briskly 
and thoroughly. 

The diet is important, and vegetable food is the best. The milk-cure, 
however, has produced wonderful results, and consists of milk exclusively. 
Give it cold or tepid, a half-pint every two or three hours. Such a course 
has been efficacious in some cases when all other treatment has failed. 

The patient should have considerable outdoor exercise — as much as his 
temperament and strength shall dictate. A change of climate is sometimes 
necessary. 

[Much experience and observation have convinced me that the indis- 
criminate use of mineral waters, particularly those of this country, so 
highly vaunted for the cure of this disease, oftener results in injury than in 
benefit. If drank at all, they should be used on the advice of a competent 
physician. The fact is that those waters which contain no mineral constit- 
uents are most beneficial in this disease. — Hale.] 



THE GENITAL ORGANS. 

Having treated of the disorders of the urinary organs, we shall perhaps 
be expected by some to pass on to the diseases of the genitals; but the 
writer will respect the public taste and feeling, and omit the details in 
troubles which are not topics of general conversation, and whose treatment 
is not appropriate here. Some general words of caution, however, will not 
come amiss. 

Of the special books devoted to this subject there is occasionally one 
which is commendable in most features, and creditably fills its professed place. 
As some disorders in these parts may arise under the most legitimate condi- 
tions, just as in any other organs of the body, it is well that the family have 



224 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

an honest treatise upon them. Great care should nevertheless be exercised 
in the purchase, since many writers, abusing the morbid and excitable curios- 
ity which hangs around this subject, have presented the matter in a highly 
sensational form, as a means of increasing the sale. It is unfortunate that 
even some of the most sincere and temperate have not shown greater pains 
to appeal more dispassionately to the cool judgment of the ordinary reader. 

For obvious reasons, the patient covers these disorders with careful 
secrecy, but he ought to reflect that the average physician comes in contact 
with such sufferers so often that no novelty impels him to speak of them 
outside of his office, to say nothing of the higher element of honor in the 
profession which makes the medical counselor the patient's safest confidant. 
He will thus sufficiently master his sensitiveness toward the profession to 
seek counsel, and will always see the wisdom of such a course, often learn- 
ing also that an existing derangement had been no occasion for delicacv, 
though none the less needing treatment. We, therefore, urge any reader 
who has a fear or suspicion that he has a venereal disorder, or if he has any 
symptoms from the genital organs which cause anxiety, to at once frankly 
consult the family physician, or any other of a reputable and responsible 
practice, with a full and true statement of his case. 

Above all, let those who, in the public print, in pamphlets, in books of 
" advice," advertise to treat these diseases be avoided in every case. Thev 
are impostors without exception, and it is a notorious fact that they often exact 
exorbitant charges, after filing the imagination, rarely or never cure a case, 
and very frequentlv take their ill-gotten fees for treating symptoms which 
are purely natural, and whose correction mav be an injurv to the system, 
while the consequent excited state of feeling is positively hurtful to the gen- 
eral health. 

From these reassuring remarks we would not be understood as under- 
rating the sad results of some of these diseases. Hence our advice to give 
prompt attention to any suspected symptoms. Again, it may be said that 
the extent to which certain dangerous practices are carried on, especiallv by 
boys and girls, has not been over-stated bv some conscientious writers, and 
that a solemn obligation with reference thereto rests upon parents, guard- 
ians, pastors and teachers. To such it will be well to make the general 
observation that thev can often render valuable services to those whose 
minds have been wrought up by quack advertisements, by teaching them 
that the representations which they have read are grossly exaggerated, and 
by encouraging a hopeful state of mind. Great numbers of even the pure 
and innocent suffer a mental torture from this source, and the removal of 
apprehension is a very important element in the cure of any fancied or real 
disorders. 



CHAPTER IX. 
GENERAL DISEASES. 

REMARKS UPON FEVERS. 

:HEN the body is disturbed in its natural functions, it usually ex- 
hibits a general commotion, with increased frequency of pulse 
and rise of temperature. This change from the natural stand- 
,' ^fe^j ard we call fever, and, as there are many conditions of the sys- 
tem which cause it, and different organs are involved in these conditions, 
fever is known under various names, according to the organs affected, and 
the locality of the disturbance. These may be divided into eruptive and 
non-eruptive fevers, the several kinds in each class presenting different 
phases, owing to particular influences acting upon individual cases. 

Symptoms of fever, in general, are unusual heat, great thirst, quick 
pulse, coated tongue, languor, restlessness, loss of appetite, general obstruction 
of the secretions. The causes are varied, the principal ones being exposure 
to extremes of temperature, cold and wet, unwholesome food, poor air, 
over-exertion of mind or body, contagion, intemperance. 

Fevers, of whatever kind, require much the same accessory treatment. 
The diet should be plain and simple. No animal food should be given, and 
the plainest broths ought to take the place of all solid food. The repugnance 
to food is nature's direct protest against the performance of labor by the 
stomach. The great thirst is a clear indication that the body needs water, 
and it was a blessed day when this sovereign remedy of nature was no 
longer refused to the fever-parched sufferer. 

SIMPLE FEVER. 

This form of fever is the result of some temporary obstruction to the 
functions, and usually lasts, even without medicine, but a short time, as one 
or two days. The symptoms are fever, alternating with chills, and usually 
followed by sweat, slight debility, and a return to health. 

Treatment. — It requires but little treatment, and a few doses of 
15 225 



226 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

aconite, abstinence from food, and the free use of water, are all that is 
necessary. 

TYPHUS FEVER. 

This fever is the result of some specific poison in the blood, and, wher- 
ever it expends its force on the body, its origin and the existing conditions 
are the same. If it locates itself in the bowels, as is usually the case, it is 
called typhoid, or abdominal typhus; and, under any circumstances, is not 
such a disease as should come under domestic practice, if other aid can be 
obtained. 

The symptoms may be varied in their character, coming on slowly and 
gradually; or, as in cerebral typhus, violently, attacking the patient with 
great severity, and, in many instances, running its course in a very few 
days. The usual course, however, is the following: For a few days pre- 
vious to an attack, the patient feels tired, disinclined to move, disturbed in 
his sleep by bad dreams, and has loss of or craving appetite. This is soon 
followed by prostration, weak pulse, white, coated tongue, pain in the head, 
aching of the whole body, heat and dryness of the skin, great depression of 
the mind and body, constipation soon followed by diarrhoea, and usually 
delirium as the disease progresses. One of the most noticeable features of 
the disease is the extreme depression above spoken of, and when these 
symptoms present themselves and are persistent, means should be taken at 
once to arrest the terrible malady. 

The causes are undoubtedly the introduction into the system of the 
poison exhaled or excreted from patients suffering from the disease; the 
contamination of the water used for drinking purposes; cess-pools; bad 
sewerage, and vaults situated near the water supply. 

Treatment. — The results in this disease depend largely on the care 
bestowed, and special attention should be given to this part of the treatment. 
The patient should be placed in a large room, if possible, without carpets or 
heavy hangings, with good light and ventilation. He should be kept 
quiet, and, when delirious, guarded constantly to prevent his rising from 
the bed. The clothing on the bed should be changed often, and the body 
of the patient be bathed frequently. As the contagion or the infection lies 
largely in the excretions from the patient, these should be removed from 
the room immediately, and the vessels be thoroughly cleansed and disin- 
fected. Disinfectants should be used also in all the apartments of the house, 
and the rooms be frequently and thoroughly ventilated. In most cases, the 
disease continues a long time, and the body becomes greatly emaciated from 
want of material to supply the waste. Every measure should be taken to 
obviate this by judicious diet, which should consist entirely of fluids, espe- 



MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 227 

cially in typhoid fever, as serious results have followed the use of solid 
food before the ulceration (which exists in the bowels) has become healed. 
Stimulants also prove of great value, but should be used with caution. Milk 
and lime-water, gruels, light soups, wine-whey, and milk-punch are needed. 

This fever is quite different from inflammatory fever in the manner of 
its approach, as well as in its course, and the exhaustion and debility are 
indicative throughout. At the first approach of the disease skilled aid should 
be summoned, but until such help arrives the remedies here named may be 
given according to their indications. If the fever is typhoid in character, 
with tenderness over the abdomen and discharges from the bowels the color 
of yellow ochre, with or without diarrhoea, the following will be given: 
Baptisia has the power to destroy the poison, and if given in the earliest 
stage, in one or two drop doses of the tincture every one or two hours, will 
often so modify and cut short the disease as to render it abortive in a few 
days; but should the disease have run several days, and the system become 
thoroughly under the influence of the poison, rhus may be given. Arsen- 
icum is needed for excessive diarrhoea, discharges gray and ochre-colored, 
sometimes involuntary; tenderness and bloating of the abdomen, with 
rumbling and gurgling sounds; excessive prostration; small, weak pulse; 
great thirst. The value of this remedy in the above condition cannot be 
estimated, and its use should be persisted in, even in the worst cases. Acidum 
muriaticum is useful for great nervous depression; stupor; sinking down in 
the bed; sore throat and mouth, with foul, putrid odor. Terebinth is indi- 
cated by retention of the urine; dry, dark-colored tongue; collections on 
the teeth; hemorrhages from the bowels; for the latter condition it is of 
priceless value. For the symptoms indicating terebinth, turpentine may be 
used in compresses; wet cloths in a solution of one teaspoonful to a pint 
of boiling water, and apply these at once to the abdomen while hot. Give 
belladonna for flushed face; high fever; and when the brain is involved. 

Water, pure and cold, should be given freely ; it cools the parched 
mouth, and lowers the temperature. It should also be applied locally 
by sponging the body, a part at a time to avoid fatigue, until the 
whole surface has been bathed. When the abdomen is hot and 
swollen, the wet compress should be applied; it lessens the diarrhoea, 
checks the ulceration, and in a great degree obviates the tendency to 
hemorrhage. The dark collection should be removed from the teeth, and 
the parched and dry tongue be moistened with lemon-water, orange-juice, 
and the like. The water used for bathing and cleansing the mouth may 
contain a little perfumed carbolic acid. The greatest care should be exer- 
cised during convalescence, and the orders of the medical attendant be 
strictly followed. The foolish notion of allowing the patient objectionable 



228 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

articles because he may have a craving desire for them should never be 
entertained, as many times a convalescent case has proved fatal froni 
hemorrhage or other causes which irritate ail unhealed ulcer i?i the 
bowels. 

BILIOUS, REMITTENT, OR GASTRIC FEVER. 

This fever, as its name implies, involves the organs of digestion, as the 
liver and stomach, and is remittent in its type. Sometimes it is quite severe 
in its character, and, unless promptly met, may terminate fatally, especially 
when occurring in warm climates. Its characteristic symptoms are irri- 
tability of the stomach, causing vomiting that is often violent, the smallest 
particle of food producing severe retching and vomiting ; the bowels are 
either constipated or loose, and the latter condition is sometimes very 
marked; the skin has a yellowish hue, and is usually dry; there are alter- 
nate chills and flushes of heat, much headache, throbbing of the arteries in 
the neck, dry tongue, excessive thirst, tenderness over the stomach, and pain 
in the liver. The fever generally comes on about noon and goes away 
during the night, the patient being nearly, but not quite, free from it in the 
morning. Delirium, preceded by giddiness, often occurs, and when the 
patient is dull and lethargic, a severe form of the disease may be expected. 
Under proper treatment in mild cases the disease declines about the fifth 
day. In bad cases, however, as those attended with jaundice, there follow 
vomiting of a black or coffee-ground substance, foul breath, deep sleep, con- 
vulsions, and death. 

Treatment. — This disease needs active treatment, and the first efforts 
should be directed toward reducing the fever during its paroxysm, and, if 
possible, obtaining the intermission or entire subsidence of the fever. This is 
often done bv the use of aconite. It should be gfiven durinsr the hot sta^e 
in frequent doses; and when free perspiration takes place, and the patient 
is cool, quinine should be given until the violent attack comes on. Gel- 
seminum is desirable for the introductory stage, and for flushes of heat fol- 
lowed by chills; also as a preventive. Veratrum album is indicated by ex- 
cessive vomiting with pain, and by black vomit. Give arsenicum for great 
exhaustion, diarrhoea, and general sinking of the vital powers. 

INTERMITTENT FEVER.— FEVER AND AGUE. 

This very common fever is found in all climates and countries. It is 
more prevalent, however, in newlv-settled localities and in districts having 
large tracts of low, marshy land. The germs which are said to produce it 
are generated by exposure to the sun's rays of new soil turned over, stag- 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 229 

nant pools in long drouths, decaying vegetable matter, marshy lands, 
swamps near rivers of deficient drainage, newly-made canals, and the like. 
The poison thus produced is called malaria, and many diseases are attributed 
to this source. 

A real paroxysm of this disease consists of three stages, all of which 
are more or less marked in their characteristics. These stages are the chill, 
the heat or fever, and the sweat, one or more of which may be wanting 
and yet there be in the periodical features all the conditions of a regular 
type of the disease. The chill usually comes on gradually; there is a 
creeping and shivering of the surface of the body; the blood seems forced 
from the surface; the nose and face are pinched; the nails blue; the hands 
pale; there being also thirst, headache, and, not unfrequently, nausea and 
vomiting. This condition lasts from a few moments to three or four hours, 
and is followed by the stage of heat, which comes on slowly, and is accom- 
panied with chilly sensations. After a time the heat becomes intense, and 
so continues from one to several hours, with varying symptoms in each 
individual case. The third stage, that of sweat, closes the paroxysm, and is 
usually attended with great relief to the patient. The interval which now 
follows is called the intermission, and may vary in length from six or eight 
hours to several days. The attacks have been known to occur but once 
in seven days, and even at longer periods. The most frequent forms 
are those which occur daily; less frequent ones, twice daily. Under the 
name of "ague" the disorder is quite common. 

Treatment. — The treatment of ague consists in palliatives during 
the paroxysm, and, during intermissions, the application of such remedies 
as seem indicated in the special case. The indiscriminate use of quinine and 
the various ague balsams should be discountenanced, as in the greater por- 
tion of the preparations quinine and arsenic are the principal drugs used, 
and often the system becomes saturated with these poisons, deranging the 
functions of the liver, spleen and kidneys, and producing those chronic 
cases which one sees so often in malarial districts. During the stage of 
chills, heat may be applied in any manner possible, and the patient should 
not nerve the system up to resist the chill, but relax the muscles as much as 
possible, allowing the chill free scope. This will often be marked by relief 
from the distress, and the chill will soon cease. 

During the stage of fever, the following remedies will be found useful: 
Aconite for high fever, dry skin and thirst. Gelseminum is indicated by 
fever accompanied with chilly sensations, great restlessness, pain in the flesh, 
moist skin ; and also by pai oxysms occurring in the after part of the day. 

During the stage of intermission, to prevent a return of the paroxysm, 
give arsenicum for great thirst; burning pain in the stomach and limbs; 



230 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

much prostration; coldness of the extremities; loose, watery diarrhoea, with", 
greenish stools; chronic cases. The symptoms for ipecac are chills in- 
creased by external warmth; nausea; entire absence of thirst; thick, yellow 
coat on the tongue, which is moist and sticky; cold hands and feet. Give 
quinine for yellowish complexion; sinking, faint feeling at the stomach, 
without hunger; enlargement of the liver and spleen; slimy, bilious diar- 
rhoea; sensibility to currents of air; depression and irritability. This remedy 
is especially adapted to recent cases, occurring in malarious districts. It 
should be used with caution, and only in cases in which it is clearly- 
indicated. The best form for administering it is the following: 
Sulphate of quinine, 10 grains. 

Sulphuric acid, 2 drops. 

Water, 2 ounces. 

Mix. 
The dose for an adult is two teaspoonfuls every two hours during the in- 
terval between the paroxysms. 

[It should be remembered by all who take or give quinine that it 
should not be used when the tongue is coated. Do not be in a hurry to 
break the chills, but give doses of mercurius, podophyllin, or euonymin, till 
the tongue is clean and moist \ then take quinine in any form, one grain 
every hour or two during the intermissions. If the ague is broken up in 
this way, it rarely returns. — Hale.] 

Sometimes the patient has a ravenous appetite during the intermission. 
This should be governed, and a light diet of gruel and broth be used. Ani- 
mal food especially should be taken sparingly, a moderate quantity of vege- 
tables, with plenty of fruit and water, being the most desirable. 

Patients living in a malarious district would receive great benefit by a 
change to a more healthy locality. When this is impracticable, they should 
not go out in the evening air, and should sleep in an upper room, excluding 
the outside air as much as possible. Exercise during the day in the sun- 
light and open air is highly beneficial. 

YELLOW FEVER. 

This fearful disease expends its violence mainly in the lower latitudes 
of the United States, in Central America, and the neighboring islands, but 
has visited Canada, New England, and other Northern States, and has 
also invaded the western countries of Europe and different parts of South 
America. It is due to a specific poison, not well understood, which is gen- 
erated outside of the body, is favored by animal and vegetable decomposi- 
tion in a high degree of heat, and is carried from one person or locality to 



MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 231 

another by the atmosphere, clothing, merchandise, holds of ships, and other 
portable means. The germs of this poison are destroyed by freezing or 
exposure to a heat at or above 2 12 . An attack in a given patient terminates 
in six days on an average, but may last a longer or shorter time. The poi- 
son remains in the system from a few hours to several days, or even for 
weeks, before the disease develops. This poison is engendered by decom- 
posing matters and heat, as said before, but some degree of moisture in the 
air and soil is requisite. Though proximity to a large body of water seems 
to be necessary in the beginning, the disease may spread into other local- 
ities. These conditions, it will be noted, are more particularly connected 
with extended sections than with separate homes, though there is no ques- 
tion that a given household is more or less exposed than the neighboring 
ones according to the greater or less cleanliness observed about it. Hence, 
the necessity of quarantine and general precautions against filth needs no 
mention here, since public authority always has these matters in charge. 
But the difficulty, often impossibility, of getting that medical aid during an 
epidemic which should always be secured when accessible, makes a domestic 
treatise upon the subject peculiarly fitting. 

The disease usually comes on, during either the day or night, without 
much warning, though occasionally one will detect premonitory symptoms 
in headache, pain in the limbs, loss of appetite, and general uneasiness. The 
real attack is ushered in by a more or less marked chilly feeling in the 
back, which is at once followed by serious illness, with sharp pains in the 
temples and forehead; the pains in the back above noted become promi- 
nent, and those of the legs affect the calves in particular; the chill soon 
alternates with heat, and then disappears, though the heat continues. 
The respiration is irregular and excited; the pulse full, hard, and above 
100; the temperature rapidly rises to 102 or higher; the skin is hot and 
either dry or covered with moisture, sometimes giving out a sickening odor ; the 
tongue has a white or yellowish coat, with scarlet tip and edges; the throat is 
red and swollen; the face flushed; the eyes very red; the bowels constipated; 
the discharges, if any occur, are dark and offensive; the region of the stomach 
is very tender, and there may be nausea and ineffectual efforts to vomit; 
there may or may not be delirium. After two days, the pulse rapidly 
falls, but the fever as rapidly rises, except in the few favorable cases in 
which both pulse and fever subside, and usher in a speedy recovery. In a 
day or two longer, the bowels may discharge, the fever subside, and con- 
valescence commence. Generally, however, this welcome turn is not ex- 
perienced, but the patient passes into a deceptive calm for a few hours, when 
the fever again rises, with small, thready, and widely varying pulse; rest- 
lessness and delirium return, or the patient is very indifferent; the tongue 



232 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

has a brownish coat; the gums purplish; the eyes yellowish; the urine 
scanty and yellow; often twitching and jerking of the muscles,* the skin 
may be yellow, thus giving the name to the malady, but such a condition 
generally does not take place; perspiration becomes very profuse; the stom- 
ach grows more and more tender, repelling all food and drink, its discharges 
being ejected in peculiar spurts, rather than in the heavy masses common in 
ordinary vomiting, and are at first made up of thin mucus and bile, but 
afterward mainly of blackish blood, whence the name " black vomit." 
This black vomit is a grave symptom, and may be either very scanty or 
very profuse; yet it does not appear in the majority of cases, as has been 
noted about the yellow color of the skin, these two being assumed by the 
uninformed as invariable. Though these symptoms mark a grave disease, 
the patient should take as hopeful a view as possible, and in this he will be 
aided by the knowledge that the chances of recovery, as shown by statistics, 
are largely in his favor. 

Treatment. — If an epidemic is prevailing or threatening, take cimi- 
cifuga or crotalus as a preventive, coupled with strict sanitary regulations. 
For the premonitory symptoms, as pain in the head and limbs and nervous 
uneasiness, give belladonna in alternation with either caffeine or bromide 
of potassa. As soon as any chilliness comes on, give camphor, either the 
tincture or bromide; this should be followed up with aconite in alternation 
as soon as any fever appears, and the latter will almost invariably be de- 
manded within the first twenty-four hours. The special indications for 
aconite are burning headache, pain being particularly marked in the tem- 
ples and forehead; dry mouth; great thirst; heat, nausea and tenderness of 
the stomach; restlessness and anxiety; pain in the limbs; dizziness and 
paleness upon rising; difficult and painful urination; great loss of strength. 

Belladonna is needed if there be irritability; violent aching of the 
head, particularly in the back part, and extending down the neck; thick, 
white or brown coat on the tongue; fullness and discomfort in the stomach; 
very dry mouth; dark, puffy face; great thirst; nausea or dizziness upon 
rising; full, hard, rapid pulse; dark, brownish, scanty urine; general pain. 

Arsenicum is both efficacious in the stage of calm, when friends are apt 
to suppose the patient is recovering, and is the remedy imperatively de- 
manded if the patient passes out of this calm into the more alarming con- 
dition which usually follows. It is indicated by much anxiety and restless- 
ness, and even terror; yellow or livid skin; dry, dark tongue; great thirst; 
vomiting after drinking; intense pain in the head; delirium; great uneasi- 
ness in the stomach; black vomit; urine suppressed, retained, or passed 
involuntarily, and perhaps bloody; pulse irregular and very feeble; coldness 
of skin, with internal heat; cold, clammy sweat; rapid sinking of strength. 



MAN— GENERAL DISEASES. 2W 

Ipecac should be given for the paroxysms of vomiting; pale and puffy 
face; dizziness; chilliness in the limbs and back; much anxiety and 
weakness. 

Give cantharis for suppression or retention of urine; or for bloody, 
turbid scanty urine; pain in the loins; cold sweats. Apis is also a superior 
remedy for suppressed or high-colored urine, other symptoms for its use 
being indifference, red and swollen face, dry tongue, hot mouth, headache, 
and inclination to sleep. Since urinary derangements in yellow fever are 
so alarming, we mention opium and hyoscyamus as being well worth a 
trial, especially for retention. A tea made of watermelon seeds is to be 
given for suppression of the urine when other remedies fail. A weak dilu- 
tion of turpentine will be useful, cloths wet in it being put over the loins 
and bladder. 

Mercurius is valuable for a dirty-yellow skin; puffed face; bleeding of 
the gums and offensive breath; profuse flow of saliva; tongue swollen, 
coated white, and bearing the prints of the teeth; swelling over the liver; 
great thirst; bilious, slimy vomit; dark, turbid urine; yellowish perspira- 
tion; swelling of the glands; violent headache; dizziness; anxiety and rest- 
lessness; inflamed and sensitive eyes. 

The distinctive symptoms for nux vomica are difficult speech; dry 
mouth, with mucus in the throat; tension in the stomach; hiccough; bitter 
and sour belchings; contraction of the abdominal muscles; slimy, scanty 
stools; pain and burning in the bladder, with difficult urination; cramps 
and convulsions; yellow skin; aching and tension in the forehead; extreme 
sensitiveness and anxiety. 

General Care. — Cold water applied to the body is very valuable when 
the patient is distressed with heat; but it must not be so used as to defeat 
that perfect quiet which is so essential. It can be put on the body with a 
sponge, and the feet may be put in a bath if such an act does not disturb the 
patient. A little spirits may be added to the water. In some cases it will 
be best to cover the patient with a sheet, wrung out in cold water, for a 
short time. If the stomach will retain it, cold water as a drink will be 
beneficial. In the beginning, a hot foot-bath will often be very grateful. 

It has been wisely observed that good nursing in yellow fever is more 
important than all else. Insure the patient absolute rest. In the beginning, 
give copious injections every four or five hours until two or three discharges 
are produced. Hot- water fomentations are to be used for violent pains in 
the bowels. For pain in the loins and obstructed urination, use the turpen- 
tine and other means recommended above; injections of ice-water will be 
good for retention of the urine, which is a critical symptom. Bits of ice 
melted on the tongue will quench thirst, and some may be swallowed. An 



234: COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

infusion of orange-leaves is the most common and valuable drink in this 
malady. When the stomach is very sensitive and repels food, broths or 
gruels are to be injected into the rectum. In the early stages, give only a 
diet of arrowroot, sago, barley-gruel, and the like; but as the disease ad- 
vances, sustain the strength with beef-tea, chicken or veal broth, with a 
little oatmeal, barley, or crumbled bread. In collapses, give tablespoonful 
doses of iced champagne, or teaspoonful doses of brandy. Be extremely 
cautious about the diet. 

Keep the room cool and well aired. Frequently change the linen of 
the bed and patient. Keep chloride of lime, Piatt's Chlorides, thymol, or 
other disinfectant in the room, and disinfect the bed several times a day. 
Immediately remove and burn all discharges from the stomach, bowels, and 
bladder. When the patient begins to recover, burn his linen clothing and 
the bedding. Woolen fabrics may be disinfected by heat at or above 2 12°, 
but burning them is safer. After the patient has died or recovered, and the 
precautions named have been taken about the clothing and bed, give a free 
draught of air for at least a week consecutively ; wash the floors, woodwork, 
and walls with boiling water; whitewash or calcimine the walls. Take 
renewed pains to remove all filth from the neighborhood of the house. 

To guard against infection, the nurse should keep studiously clean, 
maintain the tone and vigor of the body by good food and an abundance of 
open-air exercise, and frequently change the clothing. Above all, cultivate 
as cheerful a frame of mind as possible, and thus avoid fear, one of the most 
exciting influences in almost all epidemics. 

SMALL-POX. 

Small-pox is a continued fever, running through a certain course, and 
marked by a loathsome pustular eruption which leaves permanent scars. 
It is highly contagious and infectious, and may be carried from one place to 
another in the clothing, in the hair or beard, or in the atmosphere. It 
seldom attacks the same person more than once. It sometimes appears in 
an epidemic form after considerable periods of time, and is liable to become 
very fatal in its results. The comparative infrequency of the disease and 
the lack of compulsory vaccination, the only means known to prevent or 
modify it, have led to neglect in protecting the system against the con- 
tagion, and hence its alarming spread at times. 

There are four stages in small-pox, and these stages exist also in 
varioloid, or modified small-pox: (1) The latent, or stage of incubation, the 
period between the reception of the poison and the stage of fever. (2 ) The 
febrile stage, which lasts about three or four days. (3) The stage of maturity, 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 235 

which lasts about nine days. (4) The secondary fever and decline of the 
eruption, which vary according to the severity of the disease. The disorder 
commences the same as most ordinary fevers, with chilliness, heat, headache, 
sometimes delirium, thick, white fur on the tongue, flushed face, quick, 
hard pulse, sore feeling of the whole body, especially of the back and loins, 
fain and tenderness at the pit of the stomach which are made worse by 
pressure, and vomiting. The pain through the loins and the vomiting are 
the most characteristic symptoms. They are rarely absent, and, when they 
are excessive and continuous, indicate a severe form of the disorder. 

On the third or fourth day the eruption begins to appear in minute red 
spots or hard pimples, which feel like shot in the skin, appearing first on 
the face, neck, and wrists, and then spreading over the body and extremi- 
ties. It may also be seen in the throat and on the palate, causing sore 
throat, hoarseness, and cough. The pimples gradually increase in size, and 
are often mistaken for measles. 

On the eighth day the contents, at first watery, change to a yellowish 
pus, and the pustules become depressed in the center and surrounded for a 
short distance by a rose-red margin. During the time the pustules are 
filling, the face and eyelids become badly swollen, sometimes so much so as 
to obliterate the features. The pustules may run together, forming great 
patches, which are liable to penetrate deeply, forming extensive suppuration. 
A disagreeable, sickening odor comes from the patient, and, by one accus- 
tomed to the disease, it may be recognized by this alone. 

In about eight days from the appearance of the eruption, the pustules 
begin to break and discharge their contents, which form scales that dry up, 
and, in a good state of the system, fall off in four or five days, leaving a red 
hue to the skin for some time. 

There are two stages in which there is the greatest danger, and in one 
of which the case terminates fatally, if at all: First, the commencement, 
when the fever and poison are so great that the patient succumbs to the 
shock in three or four days; second, in the secondary fever, when the pust- 
ules fill, more especially in the form of the disease in which the pustules 
run together. 

We have endeavored to give as clear a statement as possible of the 
manner of detecting the disease, it being of the highest importance that it 
should be recognized early, in order that the patient may have proper care 
and treatment, and that means may be taken to isolate him from others, and 
thus prevent the spread of the disorder, We shall also give quite full par- 
ticulars as to its cure and treatment, since it is many times impossible to get 
proper medical aid or other assistance. 

To distinguish it from other diseases which have some features in 



236 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

common, we give a few of its characteristic symptoms which may put us 
on our guard. The pain in the back and stomach is very severe, and such 
pain, when not found to be muscular, should lead us to notice the next feat- 
ure, the eruption, especially when accompanied with vomiting. This 
eruption differs from measles in being perceptible to the touch, feeling hard, 
and conveying the sensation that small shot would if under the skin. It is 
not distributed in crescentic patches, as is the case with measles. Of the 
premonitory symptoms, the pain in the loins and the tenderness and sore 
pain in the stomach are characteristic of small-pox. As distinguished from 
typhoid fever, its attack, is more abrupt and severe, without the insidious 
and uncertain approach which marks that fever. In chicken-pox, the 
eruption first appears in minute blisters, and does not suppurate, rarely be- 
coming depressed, and the fever is mild. It also presents another marked 
feature, in the fact that its eruption often appears simultaneously with the 
fever and vomiting, and runs its course in a shorter time than in small-pox, 
the scales falling off in about ten days from the commencement of the 
attack. 

Treatment. — This disease runs a specific course, and is not influenced 
by treatment, other than a mitigation of the symptoms. The lessening of 
the severity is largely effected by accessory means. A large, well-ven- 
tilated room, where there can be an uninterrupted interchange of air, with 
admission of that which is pure and fresh, is essential. If the weather is 
cold, there should be sufficient fire to warm the apartment while the win- 
dows remain open. Frequent bathing during the whole course is advisable, 
especially when the skin is dry and hot, or irritable. The whole surface of 
the body may be sponged with warm water to which is added a little car- 
bolic acid. Especially in the last stage the body should thus be kept as 
clean as possible. Change of position in the bed is necessary to avoid bed- 
sores, and, when the pustules break and discharge their contents, wheat 
flour should be applied freely to absorb the matter. The diet is also im- 
portant, and should consist of tea, toast, eggs beaten in milk, ripe fruits in 
their season, and roasted apples. As drinks, give cold water freely, milk 
and soda-water (two parts milk to one part soda-water), jelly-water, lemon- 
ade and barley-water. Small pieces of ice may be held in the mouth if the 
throat is badly swollen. 

There are many devices to prevent pitting, the best of which is un- 
doubtedly the painting of the pustules with olive oil or vaseline, or ap- 
plying a paste of flour and thick cream. The last is an excellent means, as 
it allays the itching and excludes the light from the surface, a very impor- 
tant matter in the treatment of this disease. 

Aconite should be given in the initial stage of the fever, and its use is 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 237 

indicated by heat; dryness of the skin; high grade of fever; quick, hard 
pulse; pain in the head, back and loins; nausea and vomiting. Give half- 
drop doses every hour of veratrum viride if the pulse is very quick, and 
there is much sickness at the stomach. Antimonium tartaricum, considered 
by many a specific in small-pox, should be given as soon as the nature of 
the disease is ascertained, and continued at stated intervals throughout its 
whole course. Its greatest benefit is noticed during the stage of pustula- 
tion, especially if there be much nausea and vomiting. Other remedies may 
be alternated with it as they may be indicated. Belladonna is needed for 
severe pain in the head, delirium, and sensitiveness to light. Mercurius is 
useful during the suppurative stage, if there be severe sore throat, foul breath 
or bloody diarrhoea. Apis is indicated by great swelling of the face and 
eyelids, with scanty urine. 

Those who are recovering from the disease should be kept isolated 
until the drying of the sores is complete, and the scales have all fallen off. 
The body should be thoroughly cleansed with carbolated water and clean 
clothes be put on. 

Disinfection. — Infected clothing, bedding, and other articles that 
would be likely to retain the poison, should be burned; the rooms should 
be whitewashed, and, if papered, the paper should be removed, the walls be 
washed and repapered, the rooms being then closed tightly and thoroughly 
fumigated with burning sulphur; after which they should be left open for 
several days. 

Prevention. — There is but one means known by which this terrible 
disease can be prevented or modified; that consists in vaccination. This 
should be thorough and should be performed by a reliable physician, 
who, under no circumstances, should use any virus except that which has 
been carefully selected from a healthy cow. 

CHICKEN-POX. 

This affection has sometimes been mistaken for small-pox, and in some 
things it resembles that disease quite closely. Some authors, in fact, call it 
a modified form of the latter. This is not true, however, as there are 
several marked symptoms which distinguish it from small-pox, and it has 
never been known to produce that disease, which it must certainly do, in 
its severe form, if possessing the poison of small-pox. It may be dis- 
tinguished by the fact that the eruption appears quite early, sometimes 
simultaneously with the fever; there is rarely much disturbance of the sys- 
tem ; the eruption first appears in minute blisters, which are seldom sur- 
rounded by any redness, are rarely depressed in the center, dry up and fall 



238 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

off about the eighth day after the commencement of the disease, and usually 
need but little medical interference. Sometimes, if the pustule has been 
broken, it may leave an indentation or pit. 

Treatment. — In some cases the fever is quite severe, and a few 
doses of rhus should be given until it subsides. 

MEASLES. 

This disease is generally preceded by the ordinary symptoms of 
catarrh or cold. There will be cough, sneezing, watery eyes, and running at 
the nose, accompanied with nausea, sometimes vomiting, and fever which 
is usually quite severe. These symptoms increase until about the fourth 
day, when the eruption appears, first on the face, next on the neck and 
breast, then spreading over the whole body. This eruption first comes on 
in small red spots, which multiply, run together, and form small crescentic 
patches. 

Sometimes, if the symptoms are very severe and the spots are distinct 
and small, it resembles the first appearance of the eruption of small-pox, 
but, as the spots multiply, they form patches, and the resemblance is gone ; 
again, the hardness under the skin, peculiar to small-pox, is wanting. The 
rash can be felt by passing the hand over the skin, as it cannot in scarlet 
fever. 

The eruption is usually two or three days in coming out, and, if abun- 
dant, is more favorable. It remains about three days, the fever then abates, 
and the eruption declines, becomes of a brownish hue as it fades and ends 
in the outer skin coming off in minute, bran-like scurf. At this period, 
diarrhoea is liable to set in, but, unless it is excessive, it is not an unfavorable 
symptom. If the eruption be dark-colored, however, it should excite 
anxiety, for it is indicative of a severe form of the disease. 

The disorder is liable to complications, as with pneumonia, capillary 
bronchitis, and diphtheritic inflammation of the throat. Like scarlet fever, it 
may be followed by disorders more difficult to treat than the original com- 
plaint. Since such a consequence is often due to improper treatment, the 
importance of securing skilled aid is emphasized. The disorders which 
more commonly follow measles are inflammatory affections of the eyelids, 
discharges from the ear, deafness, swelling of the glands, eruptions on the 
skin, chronic cough or hoarseness, and even tubercular disease of the lungs 
or bowels. 

Treatment. — The treatment is often quite simple, and in the mild 
form good nursing and general care are sometimes sufficient. All cases, 
however mild, should be protected from exposure to cold or imprudence in 



MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 239 

eating. The diet should be simple and consist of easily-digested articles, 
cooked fruits, toast, gruels and light broths. There is often great thirst, 
and water should be given freely; all drinks may be taken cold. The 
room should be large and airy, but the light should be modified, as serious 
results to the eyes have followed the neglect of this precaution. The tem- 
perature should be uniform, and the patient be kept comfortably warm. 
The old system of hot drinks, hot rooms, and a sweating patient under 
excessive clothing, should never be followed. 

Aconite is needed for the primary fever; in fact, it is often the only 
remedy needed throughout. Give gelseminum if the eruption comes out 
and then recedes, or is slow in making its appearance, and when there is a 
tendency to convulsions. Pulsatilla is a very efficient remedy and is some- 
times the only one required throughout the disease, the special symptoms for 
it being catarrhal affections of the mucous surfaces, producing derangement 
of the stomach and diarrhoea, with loose rattling of mucus in the air-pas- 
sages ; also catarrhal discharges from the eyes, nose and ears, worse at night. 
It is often of much avail in modifying the disease, if administered in an 
early stage or immediately after exposure A dose three or four times a 
day should be given as soon as it is known that one has been exposed to 
the contagion. Give belladonna for red and inflamed eyes; inflammation of 
the throat, with difficult swallowing 3 tendency to delirium. Ipecac is 
needed for severe retching and vomiting, with much cough. 

Bryonia is a valuable remedy when there is a tendency to lung-trouble 
or bronchial irritation, and is indicated when the pain is severe in the chest, 
worse when coughing or taking a long breath. It may be alternated with 
aconite during the fever stage, and with pulsatilla afterward, when these 
remedies are indicated. Mercurius is indicated by glandular swelling; ulcer- 
ation of the throat and mouth, with swelling of the tonsils and difficulty 
in swallowing; bilious diarrhoea, with mucous stools. 

In mild cases, a physician is rarely called and the foregoing treatment 
will be found efficacious. However, if the fever is high and the derange- 
ment of the stomach severe, medical aid should be summoned at once. 

SCARLET FEVER. 

This disease belongs to the eruptive fevers, and is both infectious and 
contagious. Its great prevalence and mortality have placed it among the 
most dreadful and fatal diseases. Statistics of the years 1S63, 1S64 and 
1865 show a mortality of over ninety thousand, and in 1863 London alone 
lost 4,982. This is a return of the record of deaths alone, and says nothing 
of those who were crippled or left life-long sufferers from the results. 



240 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

The symptoms are few, plain, and easily recognized. It usually com- 
mences suddenly, with ordinary symptoms of fever, a cold feeling, chills 
followed by a hot skin, quick pulse, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and head- 
ache. The sore throat may be the first symptom noticed, and may precede 
the fever several hours. Again, the vomiting may be the first indication of 
an attack. The precursory symptoms usually last forty-eight hours, when 
the rash makes its appearance. The eruption is bright scarlet, and consists 
of small red points, which disappear on pressure and return again when the 
finger is removed. The rash first appears on the breast and extends to the 
face, neck, body, and finally to the extremities, at length covering the body 
with a bright-red glow which gives the skin a resemblance to a boiled 
lobster. The tongue is coated with a thick, white fur, is red at the top and 
edges, and the papillae are seen in little red points sticking through the 
coating. After a time, the tongue cleans off, looks red and raw, and, from 
its peculiar appearance, is called a " strawberry tongue." The whole 
mouth and throat are red, and many times are quite dark in color. About 
the fifth day the rash begins to fade, and the fever subsides. About the 
eighth day the skin becomes rough and begins to come off in minute, bran- 
like scurf. Sometimes, however, large patches come off together, and 
often the skin of the hands slips off like a glove. This last-named condi- 
tion is called the stage of desquamation. 

The malady is highly contagious from the commencement of the fever, 
and may be carried from one place to another in clothing, bedding, carpets, 
and the like, and especially is this the case during the stage of desquamation, 
or scaling off of the skin. The free use of disinfectants, fumigation, and 
thorough cleaning of the apartments and the clothing, are necessary to 
destroy the poison. 

The diseases following scarlet fever are numerous, and are marked by 
many different features in the same epidemic. They are not dependent 
alone upon the surroundings and care, but as well upon the manner in 
which the disorder expends its force on the system; and, in fact, the danger- 
ous features of some epidemics may lie in the conditions which follow an 
ordinary and perhaps mild course of the disease. 

Treatment. — The first thing to be done is to send for a physician, 
for, however light the attack, there is danger, and no one should attempt the 
management unless thoroughly acquainted with its many phases. Isolate 
the patient, and, if possible, place him in an upper room, with as little fur- 
niture and hangings as will meet the necessities; ventilate the rooms well, 
but prevent exposure to direct draughts of air, keeping the temperature 
about 65 ° or 70 . Modify the light; keep the patient cool; use light 
covering, increasing the same as the temperature of the body declines. 



MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 241 

Sponge the body frequently with cool or tepid water, drying quickly in order 
to prevent too long exposure. If the vomiting is excessive, apply cloths to 
the stomach, wet in cold water, until other aid can be obtained. 

If there be high fever, sore throat, difficulty of swallowing, glassy eyes, 
with dilated pupils, starting and crying out, belladonna should be given 
every one or two hours. Mercurius is needed when the throat is very much 
swollen and filled with mucus, with ulcers on the tongue and tonsils; it may 
be alternated with belladonna if the fever is very high, with the above 
symptoms. Give apis if the throat swells rapidly and there are sharp, 
stinging pains and scanty urine, and when the patient sharply cries out and 
rolls the head from side to side. Arsenicum is indicated by rapid prostration 
and sinking; cold surface, covered with clammy sweat; weak pulse; diarrhoea. 
This remedy is more especially adapted to the latter stage of the disease, 
and, when given during the scaling off of the skin, is said to hasten the proc- 
ess, thus relieving the kidneys and restoring the tone of the organs. Dur- 
ing an epidemic, to prevent or modify an attack, belladonna should be given 
once or twice a day. 

The diet, during the fever, should consist of light broths, gruel, milk, 
and the like, with a free use of water, and, if the thirst is very great, small 
pieces of ice may be given often. Ripe fruits and oranges will be found 
very grateful and beneficial. As the disease declines, a more substantial 
diet may be given. 

The most common disorder resulting from scarlet fever is dropsy. 
This does not arise always from taking cold, as many suppose, but from the 
poison expending so much of its force on the kidneys, or suspending the 
functions of those organs, and thus causing the urine to be retained in the 
blood, to be deposited in the tissues. This result is very alarming, and 
active means should be taken to relieve the kidneys of labor, and to expel 
the urine from the body by other means. This can be done only through 
the skin, and prompt measures should be used to produce free perspiration, 
by means of the wet-pack, for the manner of using which, see below. Mer- 
curius corrosivus exerts great influence over that condition of the kidneys 
which produces dropsy after scarlet fever, and is indicated when the urine is 
scanty, with a dark sediment in the bottom of the vessel, accompanied with 
frequent, painful desire to void the urine. 

Wet-Pack. — The great importance of this treatment in scarlet fever, 
and in the diseases resulting from it, has led us to give the indications for its 
use, and the manner of applying it, in this place. It may be used, either hot or 
cold, in the commencement and during the active stage of the disease, and 
also in the latter part, or in the diseases following it. It is indicated, in the 
early stage, when the temperature becomes excessively high, or the disease 



24:2 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

presents a very severe type; also, when there are convulsions. In the latter 
case, however, the pack should be preceded by the sitz or hip bath, and the 
patient then be placed in the pack in the usual manner. In the later stage 
of the disease, the indications are scanty urine, with dropsical appearance, 
the face being puffed and presenting a waxy, white hue; nausea and, later, 
excessive vomiting. At this stage, if the urine is placed in a test-tube and 
heat applied, it will curdle, and after standing will present a muddy-white 
sediment which will not dissolve upon the application of nitric acid. 

The cold pack is preferable when it can be used, and should always 
take the precedence if there is proper reaction after the patient is put into 
it. But, if he should remain cold and weak, and free perspiration be not 
established, the warm pack should be used. 

The best manner of giving the cold pack is to place an oil-cloth over 

the mattress, wet a cotton or linen sheet in water at a temperature of 68° to 

70°, wring it out and spread it over the oil-cloth smoothly, removing all 

folds and wrinkles, having it long enough to reach from the top of the head 

to eight or ten inches below the feet. Remove the clothing from the patient 

and lay him on the sheet on his back, with the arms close to the side; fold 

one side of the sheet over the body closely, then bring the other side over 

smoothly, wrapping snugly about the neck and the feet. Cover the whole 

with a woolen blanket, tucking it closely about the body. Over all, place 

two or three blankets or quilts, wrapping them closely about the body in 

order to exclude the air. In a few seconds the patient becomes warm, and 

in about fifteen or twenty minutes will become restless and want to get out 

of the pack; but this is soon followed by profuse perspiration, and usually 

the patient goes quietly to sleep and feels better upon waking. He should 

remain in the pack from three-quarters of an hour to one hour and a half, 

according to the effect produced, and then be placed in a shallow bath of 

tepid water and washed, the whole body being well rubbed with coarse 

towels until dry. Children usually make considerable disturbance while 

being put into the pack, but the nurse must be firm and, if necessary, hold 

thern until the clothing is well wrapped about them, when they will become 

quiet. 

DIPHTHERIA. 

Of all the diseases which come under the care of the physician or the 
observation of the public, none are better calculated to deceive the inexpe- 
rienced than diphtheria. Its insidious approach and subsequent course, its 
malignancy and terrible fatality give it a leading place among the diseases 
which reasonably inspire trepidation in the mother's heart. There is a 
pressing necessity that it be detected at once, and that the best possible 
treatment be applied. 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 2-L'S 

The disease occurs much more often than many suppose, and some 
localities, including the cities, are seldom entirely free from it. Again, one 
family may be invaded, and all neighbors escape; though more often a 
larger part of the community is affected. These remarks lead to the ques- 
tion of contagion. By many it is thought to be transmissible from one per- 
son to another by contact, by the medium of the atmosphere, or by an 
entrance to a house in which it exists. Consequently, families often have 
great difficulty in securing nurses or other assistance, and are shunned as if 
infected with small-pox. It is not, however, a contagious disease. Though 
it is infectious and has germs which may be transmitted to others, this 
effect ensues only when the system is in the required condition for the re- 
ception and propagation of those germs. If one is subject to the influences 
w r hich favor its development, he will most likely be attacked. Hence, if a 
whole family or community be subjected to the peculiar conditions which 
tend to the disease, all who are exposed will be liable to attacks. 

To avoid a multiplication of cases, the patient should be carefully iso- 
lated, and every means be used to prevent the spread of the malady. The 
surroundings should be thoroughly disinfected, all cess-pools, vaults and 
foul places be cleansed, and articles that are liable to contain any of the 
excretions from the patient should be burned, or otherwise rendered harm- 
less, such attentions being especially directed to the discharges from the 
throat. The vessels should be promptly emptied and washed, and some 
disinfecting fluid be put in them to destroy any germs that may remain. 
The fact should be kept in mind that the disease may be contracted by the 
medium of the saliva or membranous shreds from the patient getting into 
the mouth, nose, or any broken surface of the body of an attendant, if the 
system has been previously prepared for the reception of the poison. 

All diseases which attack the throat are not diphtheria, nor are all de- 
posits diphtheritic, whether membranous or otherwise. This should be 
well understood, for even physicians sometimes call those simple affections 
diphtheria which arise from deranged digestion or other causes. Such 
looseness of definition, with the ready recovery that ensues in these simple 
affections, is calculated to mislead the public as to the real gravity of genu- 
ine diphtheria, and so induce a fatal indifference where there is the greatest 
urgency. Indeed, this disease must be carefully distinguished from all 
others. A condition similar to diphtheria follows scarlet fever and other 
diseases but it does not constitute those diseases. Some authors consider 
diphtheria a form of scarlet fever without the rash, expending itself on the 
throat. This is not true, since scarlet fever rarely attacks the same person 
more than once and does not exempt one from diphtheria; while the last- 
named disease ma}' occur more than once in the same patient, without in 



2U 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the least acting as a protection against scarlet fever. In fact, these diseases 
may prevail at the same time, and the same person be attacked bv one, soon 
folio wed by the other. 

Again, diphtheria has been considered an aggravated form of mem- 
branous croup. As these two, when occurring in or implicating the wind- 
pipe, are quite liable to be confounded, a tabulated showing of both is here 
appended: 

MEMBRANOUS CROUP. 

. Is a specific local inflammation, and the 
result of taking cold. 

. The local manifestation is not pre- 
ceded by constitutional disturbance, the 
hoarse cough being the first symptom of 
the trouble. 

The exudation is the result of the in- 
flammation, is always found first in the 
windpipe and never extends above it, un- 
less other parts are inflamed. 

The pain and uneasiness are connected 
with the windpipe, causing trouble in 
breathing, not in swallowing. 

Attacks children only, and rarely after 
ten years of age. 

Is not attended with prostration : chil- 
dren often die in full strength, bv suffo- 
cation, in a few hours after an attack. 



DIPHTHERIA. 

i. Is a constitutional blood-disease, and de- 
pends for its existence upon a specific 
poison generated in the system. 

2. The local manifestation in the throat is 
preceded by or accompanied with consti- 
tutional disturbance, as fever and general 
derangement of the system. 

3. The exudation commences in the throat, 
on the tonsils, and reaches the windpipe 
only by extending from those parts. 

4. The pain and uneasiness are first con- 
nected with the parts used in swallow- 
ing. 

5. It attacks adults as well as children. 

6. It is attended with great prostration and 
loss of strength ; in adults is fatal from 
failure of the vital forces, and in children 
often by the added obsfruction of the 
larynx, causing suffocation or paralysis. 

7. The exudation is a dirty, grayish-white 
or yellowish color; is easily detached, the 
surface underneath being red but not 
ulcerated, and liable to bleed profusely. 

8. From between the false and true mem- 
branes there exudes an offensive, some- 
times bloody, discharge which imparts to 
the patient's breath a foul and sickening 
odor. 

9. The glands in the throat are always en- 
larged, with stiffness and soreness of the 
neck. 

10. The difficulty may extend to the nose, 
mouth, stomach, windpipe and the air- 
tubes of the lungs. 

11. Is infectious and may attack whole 
families, or become epidemic and extend 
over large sections of country. 



7. The exudation is white or yellow, fibrin- 
ous, and cannot be detached until the 
disease has run its course, when it may 
be thrown off. in a complete cast of the 
tube, without bleeding. 

S. The exudation is ropy, not foul, and the 
breath is rarely changed. 



9. The glands in the throat are not swol- 
len, and there is no obstruction to the 
free movement of the head and neck. 

10. The difficulty never extends to the 
nose, mouth or stomach. 

11. Is not infectious, never epidemic, and 
is always due to exposure to cold or 
changes in the atmosphere. 






MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 245 

Diphtheria usually comes on with a chill; severe aching in the limbs, 
followed by high fever; flushed or pale face; swelling of the glands in the 
neck, with pain; swallowing is attended with much difficulty and distress; 
the tonsils are swollen, dark-red in color, and after a few hours are studded 
over with minute gray or white spots, varying in size from a millet seed to 
half a pea. As the disease progresses, the spots coalesce, finally covering 
the whole tonsil, and in some cases spreading over the entire cavity of the 
mouth, perhaps even extending through the nose to the nostrils. The 
tongue is coated with a thick, yellow-white fur; the breath is foul; the 
exudation from the mouth profuse; the prostration and suffering great. As 
the disease becomes more severe, the weakness increases; the breath is 
more putrid; the swallowing is more painful and difficult; the breathing 
becomes obstructed ; the vital forces sink ; there are drowsiness and delirium ; 
the pulse becomes slow and feeble; vomiting sets in; the urine grows 
scanty, or is suppressed; the temperature increases; paralysis follows; and 
death ends the scene. This picture, happily we may say, only attends those 
cases which are malignant in their tendency. While the simple form may 
terminate in this manner it is by far the most infrequent issue, and, with 
the present knowledge of its treatment, the disease usually takes the more 
favorable course. 

Treatment. — This should never be trusted to incompetent or inex- 
perienced hands. We cannot condemn in too strong terms the advertised 
specifics or other cure-alls, and, above all, the statement which periodically 
appears in the papers as to the sulphur-cure, which has not a word of truth 
in its promises, or a single scientific reason for its assertions. It is often a 
souixe of much trouble, in delaying proper means of cure, or holding out 
hopes which can never be realized. Diphtheria is not a local disease, but 
a specific blood-poison, producing constitutional effects, and must be treated 
as such. Any local treatment which has for its object anything other than 
palliation of local pain or the insuring of cleanliness is useless and often- 
times productive of much harm. 

Belladonna, when administered early, readily relieves mild cases, and 
causes the most severe types to yield. It lessens the fever, allays the 
pain in the head and limbs, and sometimes severe cases are very much 
better in a few hours after its administration. It is indicated when the 
throat and tongue are dry, and there is high fever, the temperature vary- 
ing from ioi° to 105 ; drowsiness, and starting in the sleep. Mercurius 
iodide has proved of much value; its indications are swelling of the glands; 
difficulty in swallowing; soreness and pain in the throat; foul breath. This 
remedy may be associated with belladonna in the commencement of the 
disease, alternating every one or two hours, according to the severity of the 



246 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

case. When diphtheria is suspected, the best course to pursue is to give- 
belladonna at once; and when the glands begin to swell and the spots ap- 
pear in the throat, begin mercurius iodide, alternating with the belladonna^ 
and continue their administration until the symptoms disappear, or medical 
aid is obtained. If these remedies do not cure the disorder, but the symp- 
toms take on a severe type, with malignant tendency, and medical aid is 
not at hand, give the following: 

Acidum muriaticumis needed for foul, grayish ulceration of the throat; 
putrid odor; great prostration; bleeding from the nose, the blood being dark 
and putrid; black collection on the teeth; general sinking or failing of the 
system. Mercurius cyanuret has produced some wonderful cures in those 
cases which had reached a very low state, where hope was gone and death 
seemed near. It is indicated by a very putrid condition, with evidence of 
gangrene or mortification of the parts, especially when the case is malig- 
nant in the commencement, reducing the patient suddenly, even in a few 
hours presenting all the putrid symptoms. Kali permanganate is useful for 
malignant diphtheria, with great swelling of the glands; thin, acrid dis- 
charge from the nose; the whole cavity of the throat covered with deposits; 
difficulty of speech; very foul breath. Give arsenicum in the last stages of 
the disease, when the vital forces are very low, with increasing prostration; 
dropsical condition of the limbs and face; foul odor from the breath; tena- 
cious, putrid discharges from nose and mouth. 

Local Treatment. — The local treatment of diphtheria is of great im- 
portance in the comfort of the patient and in disinfecting and destroying the 
poisonous properties of the secretions in the throat. Since much harm 
may be done by ill-advised measures, those means only will here be given 
which will accomplish the best results, a multitude which are often recom- 
mended being omitted, as liable to cause confusion and harm. Chlorate of 
potash is found in almost every household, and is an excellent remedy when 
properly used. Care should be taken not to administer it too strong, for 
large doses may destroy or disintegrate the blood. It should be used as a 
gargle, or be injected into the nose. Prepare it by dissolving a half-tea- 
spoonful of the crystals in a teacupful of warm water; use freely, wash- 
ing the mouth and throat often, and even allowing a few drops to pass into 
the stomach. 

Permanganate of potash also acts well as a wash, but should be used 
in such cases as exhibit a putrid state, with very foul breath and dark-col- 
ored or bloody discharges from the throat. Dissolve five grains of it in 
four ounces of water, using it as a gargle, or forcing into the throat a spray 
of the solution with an atomizer. 

Experience has shown that alcohol has greater power in the destruc- 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 



247 



tion of disease-germs than any other known means. It acts with prompt- 
ness and often prevents putridity and excessive accumulation of the mem- 
branous deposit. Take one part of pure alcohol to two of water, and either 
use as a gargle or apply a spray with an atomizer. 

Hydrastia is excellent in mild cases. Add one part of fluid hydrastia 
to six of water, mix well, and use freely as a gargle, having the patient 
swallow a few drops at the same time. 

For both allaying the pain and lessening the swelling and amount of 
deposit, much relief may be obtained from various inhalations and vapors. 
The vapor of iodine is useful, and is best applied with an inhaler. If one 




Child's Crib with a Vapok-Tent. 



is not at hand, however, it can be used in an open vessel or tea-pot as fol- 
lows : Put a half-teaspoonful of the tincture of iodine in a pint of boiling 
water, hold the mouth over the vessel and inhale the steam — through the 
spout, if a tea-pot is used. The open vessel will be more convenient for 
use in administration to children. 

Lime- vapor is also good. Make a tent or other close covering over 
the bed, or simply over the patient. Put into it several pieces of unslaked 
lime in a pan or open kettle, and pour on a sufficient amount of hot water 
to create a good supply of vapor for the patient to inhale, adding water or 
lime as needed. 



2-48 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

The vapor of vinegar and water will afford relief. Take one part of 
vinegar and two of water, and inhale the vapor as directed for iodine; or 
put on the stove or over a lamp an open vessel containing the solution and 
fill the room with the steam that arises when it boils. 

Among external applications which will effect good results is the 
common kerQsene oil. This is efficacious if applied with caution, and in 
such a way as not to produce a blister. The best preparation is made of 
two parts of kerosene oil, and one part of peppermint oil, well mixed; 
bathe the throat with it and rub with the hand until dry ; then apply a 
layer of cotton batting, with thicknesses of flannel over it to keep it in 
place. This may be repeated in from twelve to twenty-four hours. 

A piece of fat bacon applied to the throat is a household remedy, and 
a good one. It should be cut thin, be attached to a piece of flannel, and be 
bound on the neck so as to cover the glands which are swollen. The prac- 
tice of putting on black pepper, resorted to in home treatment, can not be 
indorsed, for it is liable to produce a blister and is productive of no benefit. 

The surface of the body should be frequently bathed. This reduces 
the heat, opens the pores, and thus allows the poison in the blood to be 
thrown off. Water internally should be allowed freely; and if there be 
great swelling and soreness of the throat, or excessive vomiting, small 
pieces of ice may be dissolved on the tongue. 

The almost certain failure of any good results from opening the wind- 
pipe in diphtheria, and the added suffering which is inevitable, lead us to 
speak against it. It is rarely the case that the deposit forms in the wind- 
pipe without extending down into the bronchi, or air-tubes; and when the 
latter condition exists and can be determined before the operation, the 
opening should certainly not be made, for failure must follow and the last 
chance of recovery be lost. 

Diet. — The great prostration which immediately follows an attack of 
this disease calls for every effort to sustain the sinking powers. The patient 
should be urged to take an abundance of nourishment, although it may oc- 
casion distress in swallowing. This does not consist in cramming the 
stomach with food and drink, but in the frequent use of some highly nour- 
ishing diet. Of those articles which are most useful, we may mention the 
essences of the various meats, as beef, mutton, chicken and venison. Milk, 
wine-whey and milk-punch are also excellent. To prepare the last, take 
of fresh, sweet cream one-half teacupful, and brandy one tablespoonful; 
pour into this three tablespoonfuls of good coffee, and sweeten to taste. 
Give two teaspoonfuls every two hours. In place of the coffee, hot water 
or milk may be used, if desired. Serve cold or hot, as is most grateful. 
Eggs, sweet bread, isinglass, and all articles that contain a large amount of 



MAN — GENERAL DISEASES. 249 

albumen, should be avoided, as also oysters, clams, lobsters, and other shell- 
fish. As soon as the patient desires it, fruit may be allowed in moderation, 
and may include grapes, oranges, and cooked fruits, such as baked apples, 
stewed plums and nectarines. 

The articles used in nursing the patient should be such as can be de- 
stroyed, as far as possible, when the disease has spent its force. All super- 
fluous articles of furniture and hangings should be removed ; the bed should 
be changed every day and the strictest cleanliness be observed. Make the 
room light and airy, ventilating well, and when the weather is cool, warm 
the apartment so as to be comfortable. The best plan is to have a ther- 
mometer in the room and keep as even a temperature as possible, at about 
70 F. The nurse should be kind, but firm, and insist on using all needful 
measures, even if disagreeable to the patient. 

SCARLET RASH. 

This is a distinct disease, not a mild form of scarlet fever, as many sup- 
pose who call it scarlatina, thinking that this term means a slight attack of 
the latter disease. Scarlet rash has many features which are peculiar to 
itself, and differs from scarlet fever in the following particulars: The erup- 
tion is dark-red or purple in hue, and does not present that bright-red glow 
which is so characteristic of scarlet fever. The skin does not turn white on 
pressure of the finger, as in scarlet fever. In the latter disease, the surface 
of the body is smooth and glossy, while in scarlet rash the hand passed 
over the surface will detect small elevations under the skin, feeling like the 
skin when covered with "goose-flesh." 

The fever is irregular in its course, and is not always present; the 
throat is usually sore, and there is often canker in the mouth. The disease 
is not contagious, and is due in most cases to atmospheric influences. 

Treatment. — Aconite stands in the same relation to this disease as 
belladonna sustains to scarlet fever (see above under that disease), and is usu- 
ally all that is required. CofTea is useful when there is wakefulness, and may 
be given in alternation with aconite. The same rules for the general care 
as were given for scarlet fever should be followed, and the diet should, in 
all cases, be plain and light. 

NETTLE RASH.— HIVES. 

This troublesome, and often quite serious, disorder is an eruption on 
the skin, like that produced by the nettle, consisting of elevations irregular 
in size and shape, either white or slightly red, and having the peculiar 
characteristic of changing from one place to another, coming out suddenly 



250 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

with excessive itching and burning, and as suddenly going away, leaving no 
trace of their presence. It is due to some derangement of either the stom- 
ach or liver, and is usually the result of eating irritating, indigestible food, 
as sausage, fat meats, spices, shell- fish, oysters, lobsters, and the like. The 
first appearance of the eruintion is accompanied with heat, swelling and 
slight fever. Sometimes it suddenly recedes from the surface and causes 
suffocation, nausea and vomiting, or excessive pain in the stomach. 

Treatment. — In the treatment attention should be paid to re-estab- 
lishing a healthy tone of the affected organs in which the disorder has 
arisen, and this will generally be all that is necessary. To effect this, strict 
attention should be given to the diet, all articles liable to disturb the digestive 
functions being avoided. Among remedies* rhus will control most cases. 
Apis is better when the eruptions look like bee-stings, with much swelling, 
and when the eyelids present a puffed and swollen appearance. Xux 
vomica is needed when there is derangement of the stomach or constipa- 
tion. Pulsatilla, when the rash results from eating fat meats, or occurs dur- 
ing the menstrual flow. 

Great relief is often obtained by a general warm bath in soda-water. 
It soothes the skin and relieves at once. Smearing the eruption with smoke- 
cured bacon, or rubbing the parts with slices of lemon, also acts as a pallia- 
tive for the itching and burning. Exercise in the open air, cleanliness, and 
the avoidance of draughts should be insured. If flannel is worn, it should 
be kept away from the skin by linen or cotton garments. 

ERYSIPELAS.— ST. ANTHONY'S FIRE. 

The constitutional disturbance produced by this disease, which has the 
characteristics of other febrile diseases, places it among the blood diseases 
and under the head of fevers, though, from the phenomena existing on the 
skin, it might be considered a local and cutaneous disease. 

It is not generally considered contagious or even infectious, although it 
displays the peculiarity of reappearing in those who have once had it, if 
they are exposed to its influence. There are two varieties; simple ery- 
sipelas, affecting the skin; or phlegmonous erysipelas, affecting the cellular 
tissues. The causes of the disorder are varied, but as a rule it is ultimately 
due to a low state of the vital forces. Some of the special or direct causes are 
cold from exposure, impaired digestion, wounds, badly ventilated and over- 
crowded apartments, atmospheric influences, and the habitual use of stimu- 
lants. Arnica, incautiously used, has been known to induce it. 

An attack is ushered in by the ordinary symptoms of fever, as chilli- 
ness, languor, headache, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Local inflamma- 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 251 

tion sets in, usually on the face, in simple erysipelas commencing on one 
side of the nose and spreading gradually over that side of the face, extend- 
ing to the scalp and neck, and thus, unless arrested, going to the other side; 
the line of demarkation often being so plain that it can be distinctly seen 
running up the center of the nose, forehead and scalp, presenting a very 
peculiar appearance. The skin is red and slightly elevated, so that the outer 
line of the diseased surface can be distinctly felt. The swelling is very great 
at times, and, in the phlegmonous form, may obliterate the features en- 
tirely. Blisters often form and break, discharging their contents, and resulting 
in thick scales or scabs, which come off after the disease has run its course, 
leaving the surface red and smooth. There is a burning pain, the surface is 
sensitive to the touch, and, in the phlegmonous form, often leaves deep pit- 
ting on pressure. In this form of the disease, the surface is very dark red, 
or even of a purple hue. There is often delirium, especially when the dis- 
ease attacks the face and head. It is a very serious disorder, and often 
proves fatal, particularly when occurring in hospitals, camps, and like places. 

Treatment. — Belladonna is indicated by bright-red inflammation; 
swelling without the formation of blisters; headache; thirst; brownish-red, 
thick urine; it is especially useful when inflammation extends to the head, 
causing delirium, lethargy, or twitching of the limbs. Give bryonia when 
the joints are affected with pain on motion. Rhus has great influence over 
the disease in any of its forms, but is especially adapted to cases which are 
characterized by blisters, on whatever part of the body it is located, and is 
needed when there is great thirst, with a dry, brown-coated tongue. Vera- 
trum viride is also suited to cases which present blisters, if there be great 
fever and delirium ; and it may also be used externally in a lotion, one part 
of the tincture to four of water, applied with linen cloths saturated with it. 
Apis is needed for great swelling, with a dropsical appearance of the 
affected parts, and scanty urine. Give arsenicum if the disease assumes a low 
form, evincing a gangrenous character, coming out in patches and produc- 
ing great prostration. 

In mild cases of skin-erysipelas no external applications are needed. 
Dusting the diseased parts with wheat flour, to allay the itching and burn- 
ing, and to protect them from the air, is all that is required. Indeed, the 
application of flour is very grateful in any case. A lotion of carbolic acid, 
if properly applied, gives great relief. A good formula is here appended: 
Carbolic acid, J^ drachm. 

Glycerine, pure, 2 ounces. 

Mix. 
Put two teaspoonfuls of this mixture in a teacupful of sweet milk, and 
bathe the parts freely with it. 



252 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

In the deep-seated form of this disease, if pus or matter forms, incis- 
ions should be made to give free openings for its discharge. The parts 
should be firmly bandaged, in order to reduce the swelling and force the 
matter toward the openings. Pressure seems to retard the spread of the 
disease, and many times, if so located as to afford the opportunity, strips 
of adhesive plaster, applied along the margin and lapping over the healthv 
skin, will prevent its further progress. 

The diet should be light and easily digested, with a free use of water 
to allay the thirst. In severe cases, with great prostration, meat extracts 
and stimulants should be used. Milk-punch with brandy will be found of 
great value in sustaining the vital forces, and, in some places, the following 
may be found necessary to bridge over a trying time: 

Quinia sulphate, 30 grains. 

Muriate tincture of iron, 2 drachms. 

Simple syrup, 4 ounces. 

Mix. The dose is one teaspoonful every four hours. 

The body should be protected from draughts of air, and, in all cases, the 
room should be well ventilated, and a cheerful frame of mind be main- 
tained. This disorder should, however, under no circumstances, be left to 
unskilled hands. The many sudden changes which may attend even an 
apparently mild case necessitate the attention of most skilled aid. 

RHEUMATISM. 

This disease is both acute and chronic. It may come on with violent 
inflammation, with all the symptoms of fever and chill, and with a local 
manifestation, such as swelling, heat and pain; or it may be free from these 
inflammatory indications, but be attended with stiffness, pain in the tissues, 
and loss of muscular power in the parts affected. Under any circumstances, 
it is accompanied by much pain and inconvenience, and oftentimes a good 
deal of danger. No portion of the body is exempt from its influence, and 
this general character has led to the use of various names, according to the 
locality in which it is seated. For example, we have " arthritic rheuma- 
tism," when it is in the joints; "pleurodynia," when in the chest; "cardiac 
rheumatism," when in the heart; "sciatica," when in the sciatic nerve; 
"muscular rheumatism," when in the tissues of the muscles, or in the mem- 
branes which cover them. Besides, there is rheumatism of the head, of the 
stomach, and of other special organs. It is unnecessarv to go into further 
details, as they all originate in the same condition of the blood, and are 
dependent on much the same state of the system, the only essential differ- 
ence being - between the acute and chronic forms. 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 253 

Opinions differ widely as to the nature of the condition which gives rise 
to a disease that takes so wide a range in its places of attack. Some sup- 
pose that it is an alkaline state of the blood, resulting from an excessive dis- 
charge of the acids through the skin, as indicated by the copious sour 
sweat. They therefore saturate the system with acids to make up the loss. 
Others believe that there is an excess of acids, and give alkalies to counteract 
them. All opinions have their supporters, and yet few other diseases pre- 
sent such a formidable front to treatment, or subject the sufferer to so many 
disappointments. This shows that the promises of the innumerable spe- 
cifics which are advertised so widely are false ; yet few disorders are so much 
treated with such worthless nostrums and liniments as the one now under 
consideration. 

ACUTE OR INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATISM. 

This form usually comes on like an ordinary fever, with severe local 
inflammation of the fibrous structure of the larger joints, especially of those 
which are most exposed, or those which have been strained at some time. 
The tissues swell, are hot, sometimes very red, and extremely painful when 
moved or touched. The local trouble may be confined to one or two joints 
for a time, and then suddenly change to another locality, the part before 
affected being relieved from pain and soreness, though still weak and de- 
prived of muscular power. Again, a large portion of the body may become 
affected at qnce, robbing the patient of the power of motion, and often 
making it necessary to change his position by lifting him on a sheet. The 
pain is quite inclined to become intermittent, being at times exceedingly 
severe, then giving place to a period of ease, though it is usually worse at 
night. The skin is hot and generally covered with a profuse, sour, offen- 
sive sweat, so highly acid as to redden litmus paper upon a test. The 
sweating of ten mitigates the pain, and may be considered nature's mode of 
eliminating the poison. The urine is scanty and dark-colored, with a large 
deposit of reddish sediment, and has a high specific gravity. The tongue is 
coated with a thick, yellowish, or dirty- white fur; and there is great thirst, 
with full pulse and higher temperature than is normal. 

One of the peculiar characteristics of rheumatism, often attended with 
much danger, is the erratic nature noted above. In its shifting from one 
part to another it has a peculiar tendency to attack the heart and its cover- 
ing, especially if this organ has been the seat of irritability from functional 
or organic disorder. This complication is readily detected by the anxious 
expression of the countenance, and by the obstructed, spasmodic breathing 
which results from the severe pain. This course of the disease is a serious 
one, and is always attended with some derangement of the heart, the traces 



254 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

remaining to appear at some future time in organic disease of that organ. 
The extreme danger in any implication of the heart demands for this form 
of rheumatism the best aid and most assiduous care of a skilled physician. 

That the predisposing cause of the disease is some disorder of the 
blood there can be little doubt, and we may reasonably believe that, with- 
out this condition, rheumatism would not occur. The exciting causes are 
exposure to cold and wet; evaporation from wet clothing, causing chill; 
sudden arrest of secretions of the skin; abrupt suppression of dysentery, or 
of eruptions attending some fevers; the retrocession or "striking in" of skin 
diseases; a low state of the system, rendering the patient unable to resist 
attacks. 

Muscular rheumatism may or may not be attended with inflammatorv 
symptoms. It affects the structure and the sheaths of the muscles. When 
it settles in the back, its favorite locality, it is called lumbago ; if in the neck, 
it is known as crick in the neck; if in the thigh, following the track of the 
sciatic nerve, it is sciatica. 

Treatment. — So far as the accessory means are concerned, the treat- 
ment is substantially the same for all forms. Reference will be made to the 
several remedies here named according to the locality to which they are 
best adapted. There is so much suffering in this disease that opportunity 
is given for the application of any number of liniments, lotions, and other 
preparations of a like character. As they all have their sphere of action, 
and have much the same effect, we refer the reader to the index for direc- 
tions to the formulae for their preparation, as given in another chapter. 

In the accessory treatment, warmth, protection from the air, promo- 
tion of the free action of the skin, and the reduction of the excessive heat 
are to be attained as far as possible. If these ends be gained, very much 
has been done to relieve the sufferer. After rubbing well with such lini- 
ments as may be chosen, the parts affected should be covered with a thick 
layer of dry cotton batting, selected with care so as to avoid that which is 
unclean, coarse, or filled with knots or other irritating matter. The cotton 
should extend beyond the limit of the affection, and be held in place with a 
covering of oil-silk or cloth. This dressing not only protects the inflamed 
surface from the air and keeps the temperature even, but also produces a 
cooling sensation by its conducting properties. 

Strapping with adhesive plaster often produces relief, for physiological 
reasons that may be easily understood. When the capillaries are engorged, 
the firm and even pressure forces the blood out of them and relieves the 
pain; when the joints are affected, it causes absorption of the fluids deposited; 
when the knee is the seat of trouble, the straps prevent chronic enlarge- 
ment, in addition to relieving the pain ; in lumbago, they are specially use- 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 255 

ful, as they sustain the back and, to a considerable extent, prevent the con- 
traction of the muscles, thus affording much relief. In the form last named, 
they should be extended, in parallel strips across the back, from the buttocks 
up the back to a point above the seat of pain, one layer being put upon 
another, each lapping over the upper edge of the one beneath it, and 
reaching out on the skin. The best plaster is that which is applied with 
heat, and it should be drawn firmly and evenly over the affected parts. 

Water-dressing, such as packs, compresses, Turkish, electric, vapor and 
other baths, hot and cold, has proved to be a valuable adjunct, but should be 
under the direction of a skilled attendant. Enveloping the patient in woolen 
blankets lessens the tendency to heart-complication, and hastens the cure. 

Aconite is needed in the inflammatory stage, for high fever; full and 
bounding pulse; shooting, tearing pains, worse at night and when moved 
or touched; swelling and redness of the parts; loss of appetite; colored 
urine. Bryonia is indicated by sharp, stitching pains in the muscles, worse 
when there is the least movement; fever; white-coated tongue; deranged 
stomach ; profuse sweating, with coldness and shivering when the cover- 
ings are moved. It is especially useful in rheumatism of the shoulder and 
chest, and when the organs of the chest and the membranes surrounding 
them are affected. Belladonna, though not having a wide sphere of action 
in rheumatism, has great influence when the head is involved, with flushed 
and swollen face, red and painful eyeballs, and a feeling in the whole head 
as if it would burst. It is efficacious in rheumatic fever, when the con- 
gestion and fever are the most prominent symptoms; also for pain seated 
in the bones; intense pain in the back; lumbago. Rhus has great virtue, 
and may be used with profit in both the acute and the chronic forms. It 
is especially useful when the pain is of a drawing, tearing nature, accom- 
panied with a sense of lameness that affects the muscles, worse during rest 
and relieved by motion. It thus applies particularly to sciatica, and is 
adapted to cases caused by cold, exposure in wet or damp weather, bath- 
ing or straining. Give cactus grandiflorus when the heart is implicated, 
with a sense of constriction, as if it were encircled with a band. Arnica is 
needed for tearing pain; swelling in the parts, with much soreness and 
numbness; great dread of being touched; the bed feels hard; pressing pain 
in the left side, increased when drawing a long breath. Arsenicum ap- 
plies to cases that are attended with profuse sweating which leaves the pa- 
tient weak and prostrated, even if the pain is relieved ; stinging, burning, 
intermittent pain that is apt to be worse every second day; swelling joints, 
with a pale, puffy appearance ; pain relieved by heat and movement of the 
affected member. Caulophyllum is useful for rheumatism in the joints of 
the hands, wrists and feet, with spasmodic pain which causes rigidity of the 



256 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

muscles and is inclined to shift from the extremities to the back. Cimici- 
fuga is an excellent remedy for rheumatism which affects the right side of 
the chest, the joints and the back; also when the pain is worse on motion, 
and there are great heat and swelling in the affected parts. Colchicum is 
indicated by wandering or shifting rheumatism, with a tendency to locate in 
the chest and heart; deranged condition of the stomach; burning and tear- 
ing pains; affected parts usually not swollen, but sometimes showing a 
pale swelling; constant chilliness, with flushes of heat. Digitalis is more 
particularly suited to cases with heart-complications; small pulse, easily 
affected by motion, the latter causing strong pulsations; hurried and labored 
breathing ; also in cases with urinary complications, when the secretions are 
almost entirely suppressed; general paleness of the body, the joints being 
swollen, white and shiny. Give three to five drops of it every one, two or 
four hours. Many speedy cures have been made with mercurius. It is 
especially useful if there is a taint of blood or heredity which furnishes a 
predisposition to the disease. The symptoms indicating it are very high 
fever; full, quick pulse; profuse sweating, which has a musty smell; parts 
not much swollen but exceedingly painful and usually very red, a condi- 
tion which, with a throbbing, deep-seated pain, gives rise to an apprehen- 
sion of the formation of pus in the joints; much gastric derangement; thick, 
yellow coating on the tongue; foul breath; no appetite, food of all kinds 
causing nausea; great thirst. 

Persons suffering from acute rheumatism usually have little desire for 
food, and should take but little during the inflammatory stage. The diet 
should consist of milk and water gruel, light broths, arrowroot, and, as the 
fever lessens, broths of mutton and beef. As convalescence progresses, a 
more liberal diet should be used. The practice of excluding all articles of 
a nitrogenous character is not attended with good results, as it lessens the 
heart's action by cutting off the supply of those substances which tend to 
build up the muscular system. Water should be used freely, because of the 
great thirst and free perspiration. It lessens the temperature and pro- 
motes sweating, thus carrying off through the skin the poisonous matter in 
the blood. 

CHRONIC RHEUMATISM. 

This differs quite materially from the acute form, though it may be a 
sequel of it. It is an independent disease, usually without any previous 
inflammatory attack, is the result of some specific condition of its own, 
and has results peculiar to itself. It consists in a chronic pain, with stiff- 
ness, sometimes swelling, and often distortion, of the joints, especially 
those of the fingers. It is very obstinate, and when it gives the sufferer a 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 257 

short respite, it soon returns, often more severe and more stubborn than be- 
fore. This continued recurrence finally causes loss of power in the affected 
parts, and constant lameness is the result; or the muscles become shrunken 
and the ligaments contracted; or a bony stiffness of the joint follows. There 
is little fever or swelling, and no sweating. A low state of the system, 
with weak digestive powers, usually exists, and many times the correction 
of a dyspeptic condition has produced prompt relief from rheumatism. This 
should always be considered, and such means be used as will tend to build 
up the system, and insure a healthy assimilation of food. 

Treatment. — The accessory measures, and the indications for the use 
of bryonia, rhus, mercurius and cimicifuga, all useful in chronic rheumatism, 
are detailed above under the acute type. The medicines given below are 
especially adapted to chronic cases. 

Iodide of potash is of the utmost value, since it is suited to the removal 
of the blood-taints which are often the origin of chronic rheumatism. The 
special indications for its use are chronic enlargement of the glands; stiff- 
ness and immobility of the joints; distortion and inversion of the fingers 
and hands; great pain from motion, if it be the least irregular; intense pain 
in the back upon attempting to rise after sitting or lying down. Phytolacca, 
under the name of poke-root, has long had a reputation in the domestic 
treatment of rheumatism. It is often used in the acute form, but is particu- 
larly valuable in the chronic type when the disease affects the back, hip- 
joint, and the sheath covering the bones, the pain being heavy, aching, and 
worse in damp weather, and during the night; also when the glandular 
system is involved, with swelling under the arms and in the neck. Sulphur 
has a remarkable efficacy when acute rheumatism shows evidence of re- 
currence, and when traces or symptoms remain in spite of other remedies. 
In chronic rheumatism, it has done more than any other remedy, as is shown 
by the numerous cures which are made every year by the various sulphur 
springs. When rheumatism follows suppressed eruptions, or when the 
pains are drawing, tearing, worse from cold, and relieved by warmth, this 
remedy is especially efficacious. 

The diet in chronic rheumatism should be nourishing and easily 
digested, all articles having a decidedly injurious effect which tend to derange 
the stomach, such as fat and grease. Acid materials, especially cooked fruits, 
limes and lemons, may be used with profit. Hot sulphur baths, Turkish 
baths, and sea-bathing are often highly beneficial, but should be used under 
competent advice, and this remark will apply equally well to the various 
hot springs. 



258 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

DROPSY. 

This consists in an accumulation of fluids, of a serous or watery charac- 
ter, in various portions of the body. It is found in the cellular tissue under- 
neath the skin and surrounding the muscles, and in the serous cavities. It 
is not, strictly speaking, a disease, but is rather a result of certain disordered 
conditions, and may arise from a great variety of causes. 

When the deposit occurs in the cellular tissue, the parts have a doughy 
feeling, and, when they are pressed upon, the indentations remain some 
time; the surface is usually white and waxy in appearance and feels cold. 
In chronic cases, when the swelling is great, the skin becomes very 
tense and smooth, and has a glassy, dull-red aspect. In the lower limbs it 
is liable to break through the skin, thus allowing the fluid to escape, and 
gangrenous sloughs may form. Cellular dropsy is quite liable to be general 
in its character, commencing in the lower limbs, and, if unchecked, extend- 
ing over the body. This form is called anasarca. 

When dropsy locates in the abdomen, it is known as ascites. This 
part of the body often becomes enormously distended, and, from the pres- 
sure of the accumulated fluid, causes great distress in breathing, especially 
when lying down. It is due to obstructed circulation, to enlarged spleen, 
and other causes. 

When the accumulation of the fluid takes place in the chest, it is known 
as hydrothorax, or dropsy of the chest, and is usually the result of inflam- 
mation of the lining membranes of the chest, or the organs contained 
therein. 

When dropsy has its seat in the head, it is called hydrocephalus, and 
may exist at birth or arise from the various inflammations of the brain 
and its coverings. 

As dropsy is treated under the different diseases of which it is a se- 
quence, we will speak of it here only in general terms, giving the remedies 
and hygienic treatment which apply to dropsy as a whole, and to its pre- 
vention. When not the result of inflammation of the different serous cavi- 
ties, or the organs contained therein, this disorder arises from impeded 
circulation of the blood in the capillaries, due to any of the following 
conditions : 

i. A poor, watery, exhausted condition of the blood. 

2. The presence in the blood of matter which should have been elimi- 

nated, or of other noxious material. 

3. The obstruction to the free passage of the blood through one or 

more of the great organs of the circulation, as the heart, lungs, or 
liver. 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 259 

Thus, from the improper assimilation of the food, or from great loss 
in blood-letting or other hemorrhage, the blood becomes deficient in red 
corpuscles and abounds in white, colorless cells which, being larger than 
the red corpuscles, adhere to the walls of the vessels, obstructing the free 
passage of the blood and causing an exudation of serum through the walls 
into the tissues surrounding them. This is more especially the case in those 
parts most remote from the heart, and less under the influence of its feeble 
action. 

It is now generally conceded that, in the various blood diseases, the 
capillary circulation becomes obstructed by the presence of morbid products. 
When this takes place, or the blood is rendered unfit for the process of nu- 
trition or secretion, a stagnation in its passage through the capillaries is 
indicated in the visible functions, as well as in the nutrition of the organs 
and tissues, especially the heart, the action of which becomes quickened 
and more laborious in its efforts to force the blood through the sluggish and 
congested vessels. Among the diseases giving rise to this condition are 
scarlet fever and Bright' s Disease of the kidneys, the dropsy in both cases 
resulting from the presence in the blood of portions of the poison which 
obstructs the capillary circulation in the kidneys and the general circulation. 
Other exciting causes are those diseases which tend to depreciate the quality of 
the blood, as consumption, chronic diseases of the liver, chronic diarrhoea, and 
severe hemorrhage during child-birth. Again, as said above, the condition 
may arise from obstruction of the current of the blood through the heart? 
lungs and liver, the cause in this instance being mechanical in its character. 
In this last division, the primary obstruction may be in the heart; or it may 
be in the lungs, and the secondary in the heart, from the various diseases of 
the lungs. Either of these may produce dilatation and deficient action in 
the right side of the heart, with a backing up of the blood in the venous 
system, resulting in dropsy in the extremities which finally extends to the 
entire body. The liver may become the seat of obstruction, by disease or 
enlargement of this organ which blocks up the circulation, and, as in the 
heart, returns its effects back to the remotest part of the venous system, 
engorges the capillaries, and is followed by dropsy in the abdomen. 

Treatment. — There are so many conditions of the system that may 
produce dropsy, and the successful treatment depends so much on the 
knowledge of the individual condition or cause, that it is necessary to con- 
sult some one who has had experience in the treatment of the disease. 
We advise an early application to such aid. The diet is an important mat- 
ter, and should be of such a nature as to require the least labor on the part 
of the digestive functions, while possessing the best nutritive properties. 
Water may be used freely, not only to quench the thirst that often occurs, 



260 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

but also because of its action on the fluids of the body, by which they are 
more freely cast off. The old theory that water increases the dropsy, and 
hence should not be taken, is false, as it is known to have an opposite effect, 
the amount of fluids secreted being greater than those taken. It also 
strengthens the pulse, and improves the appetite. Baths, both hot and cold, 
are excellent helps, but should be under the direction of a physician, for 
much harm might arise from their injudicious use. Tapping the cavities to 
draw off the fluids is sometimes resorted to, in order to give relief from the 
suffering, but can result only in temporary help. Since the cause still 
exists, the cavity soon fills again, and the patient is weaker therefrom. 
However, it may be at times a great boon to the poor sufferer. 

Arsenicum is a most useful remedy in this disease, both local 
and general. It is indicated by great debility, loss of flesh and general 
weakness; oppression of the breath when lying down; the skin dry and 
pale; the tongue red and parched; the pulse feeble and irregular; the ex- 
tremities cold; excessive burning thirst; scanty urine. Give digitalis when 
dropsy arises from heart or kidney trouble. It is indicated when the pulse 
is small, feeble and irregular; face pale; lips purple; breathing difficult; 
urine scanty; inability to lie on the back. Apis, from its powerful action 
on the kidneys, is very useful in cases of dropsy arising from a severe chill, 
scarlet fever, and incipient Bright 7 s Disease, and in those occurring in preg- 
nant women. It is especially useful when the dropsy is complicated with 
suppression of the urine, difficult urination, and other urinary disorders. 
Bryonia is needed in dropsy of the chest, or of the joints, and when sudden 
checking of perspiration or disorder of the liver is the cause. 

A warm, dry atmosphere is the best for dropsical patients, and, if the 
disease arises from the influence of a damp or malarious climate, a change 
may be necessary. 

SCROFULA. 

This is a constitutional disease resulting from deranged nutrition, and 
manifesting itself especially in the lymphatics. It is more commonly 
marked by a hardening and enlargement of the glands of the neck, jaws, 
arm pits and groins, but is not confined to these parts. The swellings are 
at first soft and painless, but afterward become larger and inflamed, and 
often form suppurating ulcers. Colds, measles, scarlet fever and other dis- 
eases, as is well known, often affect the lymphatic glands, even in constitu- 
tions that have previously been in general good health. They also excite 
to open manifestation any scrofulous taints that a child may have had at 
birth. Other symptoms in this type or stage are discharges from the eyes, 
nose and ears; thickened upper lip; swollen abdomen; swelling and caries 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 261 

of the bones; hip-joint disease; white-swellings; hydrocephalus; convul- 
sions of infants; disorders of teething; diseases of the breasts and testicles; 
and general affections of the skin. 

But these external enlargements and sores are not the only marks of 
the disease, though they are more frequently the visible symptoms in young 
children. Tuberculous deposits are very often engendered in the internal 
organs, as the stomach, liver, intestines, brain, heart and lungs, such a con- 
dition being the more common form of scrofula in youth and later periods 
of life. Indeed, it is very frequently the case that the external symptoms 
seen in children abate about the age of puberty, and if the malady does not 
then leave the system, it will fasten upon these internal parts — a fact which 
will explain why so many who were scrofulous in early life are consumptive 
in later years. 

There is no doubt that hereditary tendency is the most prolific source 
of scrofula. Yet, even in those who have no congenital taint, the disease 
may be developed by any influences which derange nutrition and keep down 
the general tone of the system for a considerable time. Impure air has a 
remarkable tendency to excite it, and we consequently find that it is very 
common among school children who are kept in poorly-ventilated rooms, 
and among all classes who live or work in quarters where pure air is not 
afforded. The absence of sunlight is another condition favorable to scrofula, 
and hence it is more frequent in crowded cities than in the open country. 
Nor is a poor or deficient diet less potent in exciting the disease. It is very 
generally claimed that the use of the hog as meat is peculiarly favorable to 
the production of scrofula, and the milk of scrofulous cows — for very many 
cattle are affected with scrofula — will engender the disease in those who 
have no congenital taint, and readily arouse it in those who are predisposed 
by nature. It may, therefore, be briefly said that scrofula results from 
heredity, improper diet, impure air, want of sunlight, uncleanliness of apart- 
ments and the person, and, in general, from anything that will keep down 
the tone of the system, as poverty, indolent habits, insufficient clothing, ex- 
posure to damp and cold, and mental depression. 

It has been well said that almost all ills of the human frame which 
are not well understood are loosely called scrofula by the general public, 
and too often by physicians. This goes to show what an indefinite mean- 
ing the term has. It is deserving of special note that many cases of so- 
called scrofula are only manifestations of syphilis, either from direct conta- 
gion or more remotely from one's ancestry, and that it is often very diffi- 
cult to distinguish a syphilitic poison from real scrofula. 

Treatment. — It is obvious, from the lack of a limit to the definition 
•of this disease, that each case must have a treatment of its own, and this 



262 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

makes impracticable any detailed directions applicable to all cases. A skill- 
ful physician should always be consulted, so that an intelligent inquiry may 
be made into the family history of the patient, and into his habits, surround- 
ings, and mode of life. There are few cases, however, which will not be 
benefited by avoiding the exciting causes mentioned above, in diet, air, sun- 
light, living apartments, and general habits of life. An abundance of pure 
air, direct sunlight, wholesome diet, open-air exercise, comfortable clothes 
(flannels being best worn the year round, the weight being regulated by 
the season), should be provided, whatever be the pains and cost. Without 
such measures, medicines will be of little benefit. Indeed, no remarkable 
results have been attained by any remedies. Cod-liver oil has been much 
praised and very extensively used, but it has been much abused, and has 
caused no little injury. It is doubtless useful in sustaining the strength and 
meeting the loss of flesh which many cases, not all, suffer; but its use is 
manifestly not wise where such a condition does not exist. Yet, we see it 
recommended for scrofula without discrimination, and patients are often put 
into a fatty, flabby, puffed habit, which can not be favorable to a normal 
action of the lymphatics. A somewhat similar remark may be made on 
the alleged specific properties of iodine as a remedy. It is not intended to 
say that these expedients, and others which are so cordially recommended, 
have no efficacy. They undoubtedly have some merit, but only a trial, 
under the direction of competent advice, can determine whether they are 
beneficial in any given case. On general principles, baths may be confi- 
dently recommended, since they promote a normal action of the functions 
of the skin and nutrition. It is better to put sea-salt in the water. Cold 
baths have been too indiscriminately prescribed. If the patient experiences 
a sense of warmth and comfort a few minutes after a cold bath, it is good 
for him; but the temperature of the water should be raised if he remains 
chilly after one. Experience must determine how often the bath is to be 
taken; one every day proves too debilitating for some. 

It is in infancy that the best results are obtained from hygiene and care» 
before the disease has firmly fastened itself upon the system. Indeed, back' 
of this rests a responsibility. Those of a scrofulous tendency can not assume 
the place of parents with any hope of healthy offspring, especially in the 
absence of the greatest pains to correct the tendency in themselves and their 
children. It ought to be unnecessary to give a caution about marriage 
when the prospective husband and wife are both scrofulous. Whether 
there is a taint of the disease in a babe or not, the general measures above 
given on health should be observed. Other essentials, particularly adapted 
to children, are given in another chapter. If the mother is scrofulous, and 
especially if she has any derangement of lactation, a healthy wet-nurse, 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 2G3 

of good family history as to health, should be secured. It should be par- 
ticularly noted that, when cow's milk is to be given, it should be known 
that the cow is not scrofulous. It is claimed that children whose mothers 
are troubled with leucorrhoea are specially subject to this disease. At any 
rate, it will be a commendable prudence for every young mother who suffers 
from this, or other vaginal or uterine disorder, to take medical advice as to 
nursing her babe. 

GOITRE.— BRONCHOCELE. 

This is an enlargement of a gland of the larynx which produces a 
greater or less swelling in the front part and side of the neck. Though its 
seat is in the larynx, it is of a constitutional character. Opinions differ 
widely as to its origin, some claiming that it is caused by the kind of drink- 
ing-water used; others, that it is due to the climate and locality, since it 
prevails most in some mountainous countries; still others, that it is inher- 
ited; but we simply say we do not know. Generally the swelling causes no 
pain and little inconvenience, though the deformity is always a source of 
embarrassment. Sometimes, however, the tumor becomes inflamed, painful, 
and assumes a red, shiny appearance, instead of the normal color of the skin 
which usually exists. The last condition is more common in scrofulous 
people. At the age of puberty the neck of females becomes fuller, as a 
natural condition. At such a time, the thyroid gland may become inflamed 
and lead to goitre. If, therefore, the neck becomes much enlarged during 
this period, it will be advisable to take precautions against the disease, by 
resorting to the measures here recommended, and consulting a physician. 

Treatment. — There can be little doubt that very many cases are 
benefited by a removal from the locality in which the disorder has devel- 
oped. A dwelling on the coast and sea-bathing will be of much service in 
most instances. The painting of the tumor with iodine has been attended 
with excellent results. Iodine can also be taken internally with superior 
effects. A simple but efficacious remedy is this: Brown or roast a piece 
of new, well washed sponge until it can be pulverized in the fingers, and do 
the same with egg-shells; take equal parts of these and thoroughly pulver- 
ize them together, using a dose of five grains of the mixture three times 
a day. Mercurius iodide is recommended if the tumor increases in spite of 
the means given above. Calcarea carbonica is indicated if the goitrous per- 
son is also scrofulous. 

The patient should keep the general health as good as possible, lest 
the tumor be enlarged, and for the same reason should avoid labor w T hich 
will keep the neck in a strained position. Uterine difficulties and labor 
aggravate the tendency to goitre. 



'264 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

RICKETS. 

This is a constitutional disease of early childhood, resulting from de- 
ranged nutrition, which produces dreadful organic changes in the bones and, 
unless radically treated, leaves the sufferer hopelessly deformed for life. It 
arises from any influences which impair the nutritive process, as lack of 
pure air and sunlight, improper diet, damp, cold, uncleanliness, too close 
confinement generally, ill-health or constitutional weakness of the mother, 
with the consequent deterioration of the milk of the breast; even if the par- 
ents be healthy, they may induce rickets in their offspring by neglecting to 
observe for themselves the proper laws of hygiene, as to food, air, sunlight, 
exercise, clothing, ventilation, and the like. Giving the child sweetmeats, 
and such foods as only adults should eat, is a prolific source of the disorder. 

Among the first symptoms, even in the early days of infancy, will be 
profuse perspiration of the head, neck and chest, with heat and dryness of 
the abdomen and lower limbs, the child often persisting in throwing off the 
covering at night. After a time, there will be much tenderness and dread 
of motion or disturbance, with a disposition to be quiet and alone; the appe- 
tite generally becomes voracious, but the food is hurried along, and is passed 
off only partially digested, the discharges being very offensive. The 
bowels are alternately loose and constipated. The child grows dull, and 
usually becomes thin, though sometimes it is plump, and its flesh is soft. 
There is drowsiness during the day, and restlessness at night. About the time 
the tenderness appears, the changes in the bones begin. In a mild case, there 
will be delay in the closing of the joints in the skull, and in the appearance 
of the teeth, the ankles being a little sunken, the shin bent, and the spine 
curved. In worse cases, these symptoms will exist, with more radical 
changes. The skull is larger than normal, and, instead of its arched form, 
becomes flat on the top and sides, the natural protuberances on the forehead 
and sides being increased, and the seams being slow in closing. The face is 
misshapen, small and triangular, the chin being sharp, and the teeth pro- 
jecting, with a tendency to fall out or decay. The chest is narrow and prom- 
inent in front ("pigeon-breast"), while the abdomen is often large in pro- 
portion. The spine is curved in either of various ways, the pelvis is nar- 
row and deformed, making pregnancy in later life perilous. The ends of the 
ribs, and of the bones at the ankles and wrists, become swollen and knotted, 
this being often noticeable in the ribs in an early stage. The contracted 
chest interferes with breathing. The digestion is impaired after a while; 
the urine deposits a white sediment; the bones become soft and bend in 
many ways, until the child is shockingly deformed. If the disease is not 
eradicated before the fifth or sixth year, the deformity will continue until 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 205 

death. If rickets appears shortly after birth, it will usually be fatal; but if 
it comes on at a later period, it is very often treated with gratifying success, 
although more or less deformity sometimes remains. If a child which 
appears to enjoy fair health cannot walk at the age of eighteen months, or 
if the ninth month passes before a tooth appears, there is a suspicion of 
approaching rickets. 

Treatment. — From what has been said on the causes of rickets, it is 
evident that treatment consists largely in proper care. If the child has 
been delicate from birth, if there is fear of the disease while the mother 
continues nursing the babe, or if any of her family have been affected by 
rickets, medical advice should be sought to see if it is not better to secure a 
healthy wet-nurse. At any rate, the child should have an abundance of 
pure air and sunlight — preferably in the country — and be warmly clad. 
When indoors, the apartments should give free access to the sunlight and 
air. The food should be nourishing and consist of milk, meat, animal 
broths, and cod-liver oil. The last must not be given in such quantities as to 
create disgust or to pass in the evacuations of the bowels in such amounts as 
to impart to them its odor. Give ten to twenty drops at first, and gradually 
increase to a half-teaspoonful. Care must be taken to have the food easily 
digested; if the teeth are not good enough to effect perfect mastication, the 
food should be finely pounded. 

A tepid or cold bath, according as experience shall dictate, should be 
given daily, sea-salt being put in the water, followed by brisk rubbing with 
a towel and a warm hand. It is better to give this in the morning, though 
the rubbing should be applied in the evening also, the limbs receiving 
special attention at both times. 

The above measures can always be used, even in the absence of a 
physician, but that can be no ground for failing to call one. The disease 
can generally, under the conditions named above, be successfully treated, but 
the measures should be radical. In the later stages, too, mechanical appli- 
ances are sometimes necessary to prevent or modify threatened deformity, 
and these can be safely used only by an intelligent physician. When the 
peculiar profuse perspiration about the upper parts is seen, with the heat 
and dryness of other parts, and when the tenderness and sensitiveness appear, 
silicea should be given. Phosphate of lime is an excellent general remedy 
for rickets. It may be given in alternation with silicea when that remedy 
is indicated. If the child is fed at the mother's breast, it will have a good 
effect for her also to take this phosphate. Even when there is a fear that 
rickets will appear, phosphate of lime is good for both mother and child. 
The disease is fortunately not common, but parents should never neglect 
any symptoms that indicate its possible approach. 



266 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH 

CANCER. 

The indefinite, and often incomprehensible, remarks which are usually 
made upon cancer in books of this character show that the disorder is one 
whose treatment does not come within the limits of domestic practice. 
More than this, the impossibility of imparting the data from which the non- 
professional reader can detect a cancer is demonstrated by the fact that phy- 
sicians of large experience can distinguish this from other tumors, in the 
early stages especially, only by close microscopical tests. If we should 
attempt a description here, an almost unavoidable result would be to 
aggravate the terror which one experiences when he suspects that he has a 
cancer. We, therefore, leave the subject with two cautions: First, the 
majority of tumors are not cancers, and too much fear is felt on this 
point. Second, when one has a tumor or any growth which he does not 
understand, he should at once consult a physician of wide experience, not 
trusting to inferior talent; for if cancer exists, it should be treated before it 
has made any progress. It is hardly necessary to warn the reader that the 
advertising " cancer doctors " are not as safe as the family physician. 

One form of cancer is sometimes developed on the tongue, lips or face 
of a confirmed smoker of tobacco. It is not as malignant as some other 
kinds, but needs prompt treatment. 

TRICHINOSIS, OR TRIQHINIASIS. 

Parasites of some nature are found in several kinds of flesh-food, and 
the hog is especially infested with the dreaded trichinae. If a piece of in- 
fested pork that is raw or only partially cooked is taken into the stomach, 
the parasite is soon liberated and fastens itself upon the mucous membranes 
of the stomach and intestines. Unless it passes out through the bowels, it 
penetrates the coats of the intestines and passes into the muscles of the body, 
either directly through the tissues or through the blood-vessels. Resting in 
the muscles, it causes constitutional derangements, and death if in sufficient 
numbers. 

The symptoms are well marked, distressing, and unpleasant to enu- 
merate. Nor can we see what benefit is to arise from naming them when 
the disorder is confessedly incurable (though not fatal in all cases), and 
when a certain result of their mention would be an undue terror in those 
who should experience any of the symptoms after eating pork. It need 
be merely said that the only treatment known at present is in prevention, 
which can certainly be effected by wholly avoiding the use of meat that 
has not been thoroughly cooked. It has been said that it may be avoided 
by simply discarding pork, but this is not absolutely certain, for other ani- 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 267 

mals may be infested. The hog is, however, the chief source of trouble, 
and many more of them are thus diseased than is generally supposed. Nor 
can one with any safety assume that pork of his own raising is free from 
the parasites. It is never safe to eat a piece of pork until it has been cooked 
through / it makes no difference whether it is fresh, salted, smoked or 
" pickled." 

POLYPUS. 

Polypi of two kinds may grow in the nose, ear, throat, rectum or 
womb. One type is gelatinous, pear-shaped, yellowish, and consists of sev- 
eral soft hanging tumors, supplied with a few blood-vessels. This kind 
will become larger in moist weather. The fibrous type is less common but 
more malignant. When the nose is affected, the patient is liable to mis- 
take the disorder for a cold, has difficulty in breathing and swallowing, be- 
trays a nasal sound in the voice, exhibits an enlargement of the nose on the 
affected side, and can determine upon the character of the trouble by having 
one look up the nostril and see the polypus. Polypus in other parts, ex- 
cepting perhaps the throat, will be found only by an experienced observer. 
Whatever the form or locality, the ti-eatment consists in a removal by a 
surgeon, which will often be a simple operation, especially if the polypus 
be gelatinous. The surgeon will give directions on the local applications to 
be subsequently used. 

ABSCESS. 

This consists in a collection of matter in any tissue or organ, and may 
be confined in a sac, or cyst, or in a portion of tissue which has become 
broken down. Abscesses are divided into two classes, acute and chronic. 

Druitt gives the following description of the acute type, his technical 
terms being omitted: "It commences with throbbing pain, bright redness, 
and swelling of the part; these symptoms are soon followed by suppuration, 
which is marked by an alteration in the color of the skin and a change in 
the character of the pain; the former becomes livid and the latter less acute, 
being rather felt as a sensation of weight and tension. After this, the parts 
between the abscess and the surface become successively softened and disinte- 
grated. The tumor becomes more and more prominent; the center exhibits a 
dusky-red or bluish color, the skin ulcerates and bursts, and the pus escapes. 
But, where the pus is formed under dense bands of muscles, or deep in the 
breast or pelvis, and cannot quickly make its way to the surface, the pain is 
not relieved but much aggravated by the increase of distension; and the 
constitutional chills and fever are much more intense." 

Chronic abscess first appears as an indistinct tumor, with greater or less 
fluctuation; it comes on slowly, and is usually unaccompanied with pain, 



268 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

unless accidentally irritated. It is sometimes due to diseased bone, and this 
cause may be suspected if it is of long duration, with the pain worse at 
night, and especially if it has followed an injury. As a rule, however, ab- 
scesses are the result of a debilitated state of the constitution, and frequently 
follow low, exhaustive fevers. They are also the result of blows or injuries, 
or, as in the breast, of obstruction to the healthy action of the glands. 

Treatment. — iVconite is needed during the stage of inflammation, or 
at any time when there is much fever. It may also be applied externally 
by means of lint saturated with a lotion of it. Give hepar during the suppu- 
ration to promote this process and hasten the termination to the surface. 
Silicea is indicated by a long-continued, unhealthy discharge, especially 
when the bone has become implicated, or the disease has started in it. 
Mercurius is useful for painful, throbbing abscess, with discharge of thick 
matter. This is especially adapted to abscess of the glandular system, when 
there are chilliness and thirst, and all the symptoms, including the pain, are 
worse at night. Arsenicum is to be gitfen for great depression of the vital 
forces, and when the discharge is tinged with blood, or has a gangrenous 
appearance. 

When the disorder is the result of local injury, as thorns and splinters, 
these sources of irritation should, if possible, be removed. Poultices or 
warm fomentations are very valuable, as they relieve the tension and pain, 
and, if applied early, before pus has formed, they sometimes prevent sup- 
puration by relieving the inflammation. Abscesses, like boils, carbuncles, 
and other local inflammations, are greatly relieved by pressure, persist- 
ent and firm. This can be effected by the use of adhesive straps, 
whenever the trouble is so located as to admit of their application. 
These straps should be so applied as to form an even pressure, all tending 
toward a common center. This forces the blood out of the capillaries, thus 
checking and lessening the inflammation, and also confines the abscess 
to a small compass, not allowing it to burrow under the surround- 
ing tissues. In the case of mammary inflammation, if these straps were 
applied early enough, abscess of this gland would be very rare. It not only 
forces the blood out of the capillaries, thus relieving the congestion, as 
mentioned above, but it also prevents the secretion of milk, and so removes 
one of the great difficulties in this trouble. In inflammation of the mammae, 
after removing the milk the plaster should be applied in the following 
manner: Cut a circular piece of plaster large enough to cover the breast; 
make a hole in the center large enough to allow the nipple to pass through 
easily, cut four or more slits from the edge nearly to the hole in the center; 
warm well by means of a hot plate; fasten one of the flaps on the lower 
side of the breast; draw its corresponding flap firmly up; thus continue until 



MAN GENERAL DISEASES. 26 ( J 

all the flaps are smoothly fitted over the breast. Two broad straps should 
be passed smoothly from the under side of the breast up over the shoulder, 
thus supporting this organ and removing the tension on the gland. 

In this connection, mention may be made of the great relief that can be 
obtained in large heavy breasts by applying these supporting straps; it also 
lessens the tendency to inflammation. After an abscess has been opened, 
and its contents have flowed out, straps should be applied firmly, so as to 
prevent the refilling, and to keep it emptied of its contents. 

As stated before, abscesses are the result of a debilitated state of the 
constitution and a lack of pure, healthy blood. This condition demands a 
supply of good blood-making material, and a liberal allowance of nourish- 
ing food is of great importance; this should consist of rich animal broths, 
beef, mutton, chocolate or cocoa, and sometimes good wine or porter. When 
the patient has become quite reduced, a change of air brings good results. 

HIT-JOINT DISEASE. 

This dreadful disorder can be treated only by skillful hands, and resort 
should be had to such when a patient shows the following symptoms: 
Drawing up of the leg, wasting of the muscles, and pain about the knee; 
pain at night, causing the patient to cry out. After a time, the hip is rolled 
outward ; the patient limps and stands with the heel lifted from the ground 
and the toes turned outward, though he may yet be able to walk or run 
about; the fold beneath the buttock is higher on the affected than on the 
unaffected side. In a later stage, the joint of the hip becomes stiff, and the 
buttock on the same side is somewhat flattened; a slight stroke on the sole 
of the foot causes pain. Promptly secure aid in the beginning. Keep a 
watch against the disease in a scrofulous person, or in any one when the 
hip or limb has received an injury. 

WHITE-SWELLING. 

A swelling of the knee-joint, causing stiffness, inconvenience, and often 
pain, sometimes comes on as a manifestation of scrofula, rheumatism, syphi- 
lis and other constitutional disorders. Its treatment is to be directed toward 
the primary disease. 




43- Section of the Right Eye (Highly Magnified). 

270 



CHAPTER X. 
THE EYE AND EAR. 



By F. H. FOSTER, M. D., 

Eye and Ear Surgeon, Chicago; Oculist to the Half-Orphan Asylum. 




SEOTIOIT I. 
THE EYE. 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

SHE exercise of the senses of sight and hearing not only contributes 
|> largely to our welfare and happiness, but becomes an actual 
necessity to mankind in the struggle for existence. The impair- 
^pJ ment of either one to any considerable degree necessarily limits 
the sphere of usefulness of the person afflicted. It is therefore a matter 
of importance that every one understand something of the structure of the 
eye and ear, and of the care that should be bestowed upon them. 

THE EYEBALL. 

The eyeball is nearly spherical in shape, and measures about one inch 
in diameter. It consists of three coats or membranes, which surround and 
inclose certain transparent substances of different densities, generally known 
as the humors of the eye. 

Of the membranes, the external one is of a firm, unyielding nature, and 
is divided into two portions: The posterior four-fifths is called the sclerotic, 
or white of the eye. It serves as a support and protection to the other 
coats and more delicate contents of the globe, and also as a framework for 
the attachment of the muscles by which the eye is moved. The remaining 
anterior fifth of this outer covering is termed the cornea. It is a highly 
polished, perfectly clear and transparent membrane. It can better be seen 

271 



272 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



by looking at the eye from the side, when it will appear not unlike a mi- 
nute watch-crystal. 

The second or middle membrane of the eye is made up largely of 
blood-vessels, on which account it is often spoken of as the vascular mem- 
brane. It is subdivided into three sections: The posterior three-fifths is 
known as the choroid; the anterior portion, the only part visible, is called 
the iris, and lies directly behind the cornea, though not in apposition with 
it. The center of the iris is perforated by a small circular opening, the 
pupil. The different shades of color in the eye are due to the colorino- 
matter of the iris. At birth all eyes are blue; a few remain so during life, 
but, in the majority, pigment is deposited in the iris during the first few 



* 




44. Anatomy of the Eye. 

S, The Sclerotic. C, The Cornea. Ch, The Choroid. I, The Iris. P, The Pupil. B, The Ciliarv 

Muscle. R, The Retina. N, The Optic Nerve. A, The Aqueous Humor. L, The Crystalline 

Lens, with its Ligament H. V, The Vitreous Humor. D, D, The Eyelids. X, The 

Levator Muscle, for lifting- the Upper Lid. V. The Upper Straight Muscle. 

Z, The Lower Straight Muscle. 



months of life, and its quantity and arrangement determine the various 
colors. The iris is connected with the choroid by a peculiar ring-shaped 
muscular structure which has a definite and very important function. It is 
called the ciliary muscle, or the muscle of accommodation, and by its action 
the eye can be adjusted to different distances, for near or distant objects. It 
corresponds to the screw in an opera glass, by which we can lengthen or 
shorten the focus of the instrument according to the distance of the object 
viewed. The entire inner surface of this vascular membrane is covered 
with a layer of black pigment. This black lining of the inside of the eye- 
ball causes nearly all the rays of light which enter through the pupil to be 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 273 

absorbed, and does away with the annoying reflections which would other- 
wise occur. In the class of people known as the albinos, this pigment lining 
is absent, and it is well known that their sight is impaired and that they are 
unable to bear a strong light. Here again we can trace the analogy be- 
tween the eye and the various optical instruments, this pigment-layer of the 
choroid serving the same purpose in the organ of vision as the lining of 
black paint in the microscope, the telescope, and other like instruments. 

The third and innermost membrane of the eye is called the retina. 
It is by far the most important and essential part of the organ of vision, 
being an actual continuation of the optic ne rve which, after piercing the 
sclerotic and choroid, spreads out and lines about three-fourths of the globe. 
The retina, although an exceedingly thin and delicate structure, is composed 
of ten microscopical layers. It is on this sensitive membrane that the lu- 
minous impressions of external objects are formed, and the sensation caused 
thereby is conveyed to the brain through the medium of the optic nerve. 




45. The Retina. 
Rays of Light from A, B, C, form an Image on the Retina at a, b, c. 

The three membranes of the eye inclose three perfectly clear and 
transparent substances or humors of different densities. They are named, 
in the order in which they appear from before backward, the aqueous 
humor, the crystalline lens, and the vitreous humor. They serve to main- 
tain the spherical form of the eyeball, and also to refract or turn the 
course of the rays of light, after striking the cornea, in such a way that they 
converge to a point on the retina. The crystalline lens, which is shaped a 
good deal like an ordinary convex lens, possesses this refractive power in a 
higher degree than either of the other humors. . Its form can be changed, 
when acted upon by the ring-shaped ciliary muscle heretofore mentioned, so 
that its focus is either shortened or elongated at will. The mechanism of 
this function, which is called the accommodation of the eye, is perfect, and 
so accurately are the parts adapted, and so precise the adjustment, that in 
health the action is performed unconsciously, almost involuntarily. 



274 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



THE ORBIT AND MUSCLES. 

The eye is lodged in a bony cavity called the orbit, and is surrounded 
posteriorly by a cushion, composed chiefly of fat, which secures perfect free- 
dom of motion. It is held in its position in the orbit by six small muscles, 
which, acting singly or in combination, are able to move the eye in a 
variety of directions, and with a great degree of rapidity. 

THE EYELIDS. 

The eyelids serve for a protection of the eye in front, and are composed 
of a thin plate of cartilage, covered externally with a delicate layer of skin 




46. The Orbit, with the Eye and Muscles. 

A, Upper Straight Muscle. B, Upper Oblique, passing through a Pulley D. G, Lower Oblique. H, 

External Straight, (the Internal Straight being concealed by it). C, E, F, 

Muscles of the Lids. 

which is continuous with the general cutaneous surface. Their inner side is 
lined with a thin layer of mucous membrane, which is also reflected over 
the anterior portion of the eyeball. This lining membrane contains a num- 
ber of minute glands which secrete a clear, transparent fluid that serves to 
moisten and lubricate the two mucous surfaces, so that there is an almost 
entire absence of friction in the motion of the lids over the eyeball. 

THE EYELASHES. 

In the margin of the eyelid is located a row of short, stiff and pointed 
hairs, called the eyelashes. When the eyes are closed, the lashes of the 
upper lid interlace with those of the lower, and afford a barrier against the 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 275 

entrance of any foreign substance into the eye. They also act in the ca- 
pacity of sentinels, or delicate feelers, and in the darkness give warning to 
the eye of the approach of flying insects, dust, or any small moving bodies. 
The lash grows and matures about once in six months; it then drops out, 
and its place is supplied by a new one. In some diseases of the eyelids 
the growth of the lashes is so interfered with that they point in the wrong 
direction, turning inward and rubbing over the eye with every motion of 
the lids. This not only induces pain and discomfort, but sometimes gives 
rise to inflammatory troubles, and may induce a serious impairment of 
vision. If there are only two or three of these "wild hairs," as they are 
termed, they may be removed from time to time with a small pair of 
forceps made for this purpose; but if they exist in considerable numbers, 




47. The Lachrymal Organs. 

I, 2, Cartilages of the Lids, the Skin being- removed. 3, 3, Lachrymal Canals. 4, Lachrymal Sac. 5, En- 
trance to the Canals. 6, Entrance to the Lachrymal Lake, 7. S, Nasal Duct. 9, Lachrymal 
Glands. 10, 10, Ducts of the Glands. 

some surgical interference is necessary in order to establish a cure. In a 
very aggravated form of the disease the hair-follicles are destroyed, so that 
the lashes entirely cease to grow. The edges of the lids then present a 
roughened, irregular, nodulated appearance, which, aside from constituting 
a deformity, is liable to seriously jeopardize the sight. 

THE LACHRYMAL GLANDS. 

The eye is provided with a special apparatus for supplying it with 
moisture. It consists of a small almond-shaped gland, located in a depres- 
sion at the upper and outer portion of the orbit. This gland has several 
small ducts which open upon the mucous membrane, and through which 



276 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

flows a clear, transparent, saline liquid, known as the tears. The secretion 
of the tears is largely influenced by the emotions; also by any irritant which 
directly affects the eye, as cold, wind, dust, smoke, and the like. The 
tears, after passing over the surface of the eyeball, are conveyed to the inner 
angle of the lids and pass through two minute capillary orifices, one in the 
upper and one in the lower lid, which open into the nasal duct. Through 
these channels the moisture of the eye is drained into the nose. These 
little canals sometimes become obstructed or narrowed by a cold, inflam- 
mation, or some foreign substance. In this case, the passage of the tears 
is interfered with, and they flow over the margin of the eyelid out upon 
the cheek. This condition is generally known as a "weeping eye;" it is 
always worse in cold or windy weather. Some surgical treatment is 
usually necessary to effect a cure for this difficulty, the object being to re- 
store the normal opening of the obstructed tear-canals. 

DISEASES OF THE EYE. 

In mentioning some of the diseases of the eye, those peculiar to the 
eyelids would naturally come first. 

STYES. 

Styes are small boils that appear on the margin of the eyelids, and, 
though of a trivial nature, are often very painful while they last. The 
symptoms which they present are familiar to every one. Commencing 
with an itching which is referred to the edge of the lid, the sensation rapidly 
changes to one of pain, which increases as the inflammation progresses. 
There will be redness and considerable swelling of the parts, the latter often 
extending to the skin of the cheek, and causing a puffy appearance of that 
side of the face. The pain is frequently of a throbbing nature, and there is 
a marked tenderness of the eyelids. These symptoms continue thus for 
three or four days, when the swelling shows a distinct white point, and, if 
not opened, will generally break spontaneously, followed by a discharge of 
pus which brings relief to the acute suffering. Like all other inflammations 
of this nature, they are liable to recurrences, and in many cases a dozen or 
more styes may appear on the two lids before the disease is exhausted. 

Styes frequently appear after an attack of the measles or scarlet fever. 
They may indicate an excessive use of the organs under unfavorable cir- 
cumstances, more particularly when a refractive error is present, subjecting 
the eye to a much greater strain than is normal. The disorder nearly 
always shows that the general system is not in a proper condition. The 
danger lies in the tendency to recurrences, whereby a chronic irritation or 






MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 277 

even inflammation of the lids is induced. In case the stye is very large, or 
the symptoms unusually severe and prolonged, the hair-follicles in the part 
affected may be destroyed, leaving a bald spot in the row of eyelashes. 

Treatment. — It is better to open a stye artificially than to leave it to 
break itself. This can usually be accomplished by the use of a cambric 
needle. If the pus is not discharged externally, it may, instead of being ab- 
sorbed, become hard and cheese-like, or even similar to chalk, and so give 
rise to a permanent thickening and irregularity of the margin of the lid, 
thereby causing considerable disfiguration. During the painful stage, sup- 
puration can best be hastened by the application of hot water. This will 
relieve the acute pain, soften the tissues, and promote the formation of pus. 
The use of poultices is rather to be discouraged, as their action may extend 
somewhat deeper than the eyelids and exert a harmful influence on the eye- 
ball. Aconite, pulsatilla and hepar sulphuris, as internal remedies, act well 
during the progress of a stye, by tending to subdue the inflammation and 
hasten the suppurative process. Mercurius, sulphur or silicea should be 
given between the attacks. Regularity in the habits of eating and sleeping 
should be insisted upon. 

INFLAMED MARGIN OF THE EYELIDS. 

This disorder is often the result of exposure to smoke or dust, may 
come from repeated attacks of styes, and is frequently met with in those 
having a scrofulous taint in the system. The edges of the lids are red and 
present an irregular, thickened, or nodulated appearance. The lashes are 
few in number, and, instead of being uniform in their size and in the direc- 
tion in which they point, are short and stunted, giving the margin of the 
lid a ragged and uneven look, and are generally matted together with a 
tenacious, gluey discharge, the removal of which is attended with consider- 
able difficulty, and, unless great care is exercised, with the loss of the lashes 
themselves. When this disease has been neglected, or has existed for some 
time, the hair-follicles are destroyed, and the lashes cease to grow. This 
constitutes a marked deformity, the lids always remaining red and unsightly, 
more particularly in windy and cold weather. 

Treatment. — An essential point in the treatment of this form of in- 
flammation is cleanliness. The lids must be kept free from the accumula- 
tion of the discharge. This is best removed by laying on the closed lids 
cloths wet in warm water, thus soaking and softening the crusts until they 
can be removed without pulling and injuring the lashes. This procedure 
is a tedious one, often requiring an hour or more to thoroughly clean the 
lids, but it must be persisted in once a day, and even twice if necessary. 



278 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

After the discharge has been entirely removed, the edges of the lid may be 
bathed with weak camphor-water or a solution of borax. At night just 
before retiring, a small quantity of cosmoline should be rubbed on. The 
latter, aside from having a curative action, will prevent the lids from being 
gummed or stuck together in the morning. Graphites, mercurius, petrolin, 
sepia and sulphur are the internal remedies for this condition. 

CATARRHAL OPHTHALMIA. 

This is commonly termed a cold in the eye, and is a very prevalent 
affection at certain seasons, and in some localities. It may be caused by 
exposure during cold and wet weather, the mechanical irritation of dust and 
smoke, or may be the result of contagion. The symptoms are a slight red- 
ness and swelling of the skin of the eyelids, and sometimes a very marked 
redness of the front part, or white, of the eyeball. If the eyelids are turned 
out so as to expose to view their under surface, it will be observed that the 
mucous lining, instead of presenting a smooth, uniform appearance, looks red 
and inflamed, and is studded with several minute elevations or promi- 
nences. There is a discharge of mucus from this inflamed membrane 
which, as it floats over the cornea, somewhat obscures the vision; or, collect- 
ing at the inner corner of the eye, must be removed with a soft handker- 
chief. During the night, this cleansing being neglected, the discharge 
accumulates on the edges, and the latter are generally gummed together in 
the morning. The patient will complain of a sensation like that of a for- 
eign substance in the eye, and though in some cases this may amount to 
actual pain, it is not often that there is very acute suffering. This sensation 
is caused by the little swellings on the mucous surface of the lids, as these rub 
over the cornea during the act of winking, and thereby excite some irrita- 
tion of that membrane. Photophobia, or dread of light, is generally pres- 
ent in a varying degree, according to the severity of the case; there is an in- 
crease in the secretion and flow of tears, and the latter may be hot and 
scalding, causing some soreness of the cheek as they overflow the lids and 
run down the face. 

The danger to be apprehended from a neglected case of catarrhal 
ophthalmia is that it may run into something worse, notably another dis- 
ease of the mucous membrane called "granular ophthalmia," more often 
termed granular lids. This affection of the eyelids nearly always extends to 
and implicates the cornea, and not infrequently results in blindness. 

The discharge from an eye affected with catarrhal ophthalmia contains 
highly contagious properties, and great care should be taken that a person 
suffering from this trouble does not communicate it to any one else. The 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 27 ( .) 

basins and towels that he uses for toilet purposes should be touched by no 
one else. If the discharge from an eye so affected comes in contact with 
another and healthy eye, it may give rise to a severe and more infectious 
disease than the original. 

Treatment. — The treatment of this disease is by slightly astringent 
lotions, by which the discharge is arrested and the mucous membrane is 
restored to a normal condition. These lotions are to be made from alum or 
sulphate of zinc, two grains of either to an ounce of water. In light cases, 
where the discharge is slight and there is very little redness, a lotion made 
of five grains of borax to an ounce of water may be sufficient to effect a 
cure. Two or three drops of these preparations are to be dropped into the 
eye about three times a day. Immediately after their use, cloths wrung out 
in cold water should be laid on the closed lids for ten or fifteen minutes. 
Aconite, arsenicum, mercurius,pulsatilla and sulphur are useful internally. 

PURULENT OPHTHALMIA. 

This is a disease of the mucous surfaces of the lids and eyeball, and 
often commences in a manner similar to catarrhal ophthalmia, which it 
resembles at the start. The symptoms, however, soon become more marked 
and intense, showing the serious and dangerous nature of the trouble. The 
eyelids are red and swollen, their distension at times being something enor- 
mous, so that it may be impossible to open them. The eyeball, if visible, 
is very red and inflamed, and the cornea, instead of being bright and lus- 
trous, often presents a steamy appearance. There is a constant discharge of 
thick yellow pus, which gathers on the edges of the lids, or flows down the 
cheek, requiring continual attention to keep the parts clean. 

This is one of the most formidable diseases to which the eye is ever 
subjected, and many of the inmates of our blind asylums are numbered 
among its victims. It often spreads as an epidemic in an army, in schools 
or charitable institutions, where the buildings are crowded and the sanitary 
surroundings are in an unfit condition. It is frequently seen in infants, often 
appearing within a day or two after birth, and many a child has been ren- 
dered hopelessly blind in a few days or even hours because the proper care 
and treatment have been withheld. The danger lies in the tendency of the 
inflammation to spread to the cornea, giving rise to ulceration and per- 
foration of that membrane, and even destruction of the eyeball. 

The same precautions that were recommended to prevent the spread- 
ing of catarrhal ophthalmia are to be insisted upon, and even more strenu- 
ously in this disease, for the dangers of contagion are increased by the viru- 
lence of the purulent discharge. 



280 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — The treatment of purulent ophthalmia is to be in- 
trusted to no one but a physician. It is one of the diseases in which de- 
lays are extremely dangerous; the matter of a few hours may make the 
difference of sight or blindness for a lifetime. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE IRIS. 

Iritis, or inflammation of the iris, is one of the most painful diseases of 
the eye. It often owes its origin to the presence of rheumatism in the 
system, or some constitutional taint whereby the quality of the blood is 
vitiated. An almost constant symptom is pain, though it is not confined 
exclusively to the eye, but extends to the brow and corresponding side of 
the head. It is usually worse at night and during damp or rainy weather. 
It is characterized by redness of the eyeball; dread of light; a profuse flow 
of tears, worse when exposed to a bright light; no discharge of mucus or 
purulent matter, as in the inflammations previously described. There is 
generally a marked loss of sight during an attack, and one attack pre- 
disposes to another, so that a loss of sight may be the result. 

Treatment. — The treatment of iritis must always be under the 
direction of a physician. 

CATARACT. 

This is a disease of the crystalline lens, which causes an opacity of that 
part of the eye, thus preventing the rays of light from passing through the 
pupil to the retina, and so inducing blindness. When a cataract is present, 
the pupil is generally white, and often very conspicuously so. This dis- 
order is more frequently seen at an advanced stage of life, though it is met 
with at all ages, and is sometimes a congenital or hereditary affection. 
Wounds of the eye in which the lens has been punctured always produce 
a cataract. Diabetes has been known to give rise to an opacity of the 
crystalline lens. 

Treatment. — The only treatment in this disease is a surgical one, 
the object of which is the removal of the opaque obstruction, so that light 
can reach the back part of the eye. After an operation has been success- 
fully performed, a strong convex lens must be constantly worn to supply the 
place of the crystalline lens which has been removed. 

DISEASES OF THE INTERNAL EYE. 

The structures situated behind the crystalline lens, as the vitreous 
humor, the choroid coat, the retina and optic nerve, are subject to their own 
peculiar diseases, though they are not visible by ordinary means, as are the 



MAN — THE EYE AND EAR. 281 

diseases of the anterior portion of the eye. At one time every case of 
blindness in which the loss of sight could be assigned to no visible disease 
—and this was always the case when the trouble was located behind the 
crystalline lens—was termed amaurosis. But the year 185 1 marked the 
discovery of an instrument by which the interior of the eye could be illu- 
minated and the optic nerve and other structures in the posterior half of the 
organ be made visible. As a consequence, the term amaurosis is now re- 
stricted to blindness resulting from atrophy, or, as it is sometimes called, a 
paralysis of the optic nerve. The instrument by which the inside of the 
eye can be seen is named the opthalmoscope, and only through its use can 
disease of the retina, choroid and optic nerve -be recognized. 

INJURIES AND FOREIGN BODIES. 

The accidents which may happen to the eye are very numerous and of 
a similar nature to those occurring in other parts of the body. Burns and 
scalds affect chiefly the lids and anterior portion of the eyeball, though they 
may do an irreparable injury and induce blindness by causing inflammation 
and subsequent opacity of the cornea. This form of injury is very apt to 
produce adhesions between the eyelids and the ball, on account of the de- 
struction of the mucous membrane, thus allowing two raw surfaces to come 
in contact. These adhesions, beside causing considerable disfiguration, 
seriously interfere with the free motion of the lids over the ball, thereby 
tending to perpetuate the irritation or inflammation set up by the original 
injury. 

Wounds of the eye, either from a blow or a sharp and pointed body, 
may rupture or penetrate the sclerotic coat, thus allowing a portion of the 
delicate contents of the globe to protrude through the opening. It should 
be remembered that a penetrating wound of the eyeball is always of a seri- 
ous nature, and liable to lead to blindness and destruction of the organ 
of vision. Although this is not always the inevitable result, the most skill- 
ful treatment and careful attention on the part of the surgeon are necessary 
to prevent, such a deplorable termination. 

The most frequent injury to the eye is caused by the striking against 
it of some small foreign substance, as a particle of dust, coal-cinder, or bit of 
metal. These may strike the eye with considerable force and become im- 
bedded in the inner surface of the lid, the mucous covering of the ball, or 
the cornea. Less harm can ensue when the foreign body is in the first- 
named locality, and its removal is also much easier. In order, however, to 
successfully accomplish this, it is necessary to invert or turn the upper lid. 
This little manceuver is quickly done and is entirely painless when skillfully 



282 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

performed. The patient is directed to look downward while the operator 
seizes the central lashes of the upper lid and gently pulls it down and some- 
what away from the ball, making a slight pressure with the other hand by 
means of a probe, pencil-tip, or even with the finger, along the upper mar- 
gin of the lid. It is necessary that the patient look down during the whole 
procedure. When the lid is once inverted, the foreign body can frequently 
be discovered as a minute speck lying on the red mucous surface, and can 
generally be easily wiped away with a soft handkerchief. Such a sub- 
stance, if sticking to the cornea, and not imbedded in the substance of that 
membrane, can frequently be removed in the same way. If, however, two 
or three attempts with the handkerchief fail to bring away the offending 
body, it is probably imbedded and firmlv fixed in the wounded tissue. It 
then becomes necessary to resort to some instrumental measures, and the 
services of the physician become indispensable, for certainly none but a care- 
ful and trained hand should attempt to use any 
instrument about the eyes. In the case of children, 
owing to their crying and violent struggles, the 
administration of an anesthetic often becomes 
necessary. 

A quite frequent occurrence in the harvest- 
field, and one often productive of the most disas- 
trous consequences, is the striking and lodging 
in the eye of minute particles from the beard of 
the grain. It is liable to be followed by a most 
destructive inflammation of the cornea in a very 
4 S. The Lid inverted for the few days, and sometimes even hours, if the 

removal of Foreign Matter. i r- ,1 i • i L i \ 

removal of the substance is neglected. Again, 
in some instances the eye seems to tolerate the presence of a foreign body 
for an indefinite time without much resentment. The writer recently re- 
moved the seed of a sunflower from beneath the evelid of a lady who was 
positive that three weeks had elapsed since the time of the accident. The 
seed bore evidences of having been in contact with a liquid for some time, 
being considerably swollen and softened. She had experienced no pain and 
scarcely any inconvenience, being only reminded of it at times by a feeling 
of something moving under the upper lid. 

Even after the removal of a foreign body from the eye, the same pain- 
ful sensations may remain for some time, owing to the tissue being wounded 
or abraded. If the symptoms of irritation are persistent, the eve should be 
frequently bathed in cold water, a handkerchief be carefully tied around it, 
and all usage of the organ be stopped until such symptoms have ceased. 

In case of a burn or scald of the eyes from hot liquids, a few drops of 




MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 283 

pure olive oil should be dropped into the eye; this can be repeated every 
few minutes, and between times the closed lids be covered with bits of cloth 
wet in cold water. If the eye is injured by a strong acid or alkali, a chem- 
ical action on the tissue takes place, and the destruction is both rapid and 
extensive. If the eye is seen immediately after the injury, an effort should 
be made to neutralize the action of the destructive agent. If an acid has 
caused the damage, a solution of bicarbonate of soda (ordinary baking-soda) 
a half-teaspoonful to a glass of water, should be gently syringed into the 
eye; or it can be bathed freely with milk. On the other hand, if the injury 
is from an alkali, as potash, quicklime, etc., the lids and eye should be 
bathed with a weak acid, about a teaspoonful of vinegar to a glass of water. 
Afterward a few drops of olive oil can be applied, and the lids be covered 
with a cold wet cloth. The popular practice of rubbing the outside of the 
lid so as to push a foreign body out at the inner corner will certainly cause 
irritation if the body is gritty or sharp, and is to be avoided in the removal 
of an alkali or acid. 

Particles of iron, percussion caps or shot may penetrate the tissues and 
become lodged inside the eyeball. Any attempt at their removal then is 
fraught with danger, and generally results in a failure. The inflammation 
from such an injury may or may not be very severe, and the blindness be 
either partial or complete; but any eye in which a foreign body is known 
to be lodged is not to be treated lightly, for the danger is not only to the 
wounded organ, but also to its fellow, through sympathetic inflammation. 
The unhappy termination of this terrible sympathetic affection is but too 
well known to the medical man, and his efforts to stay or limit its fearful 
progress are often futile after it has once commenced. The only safety 
lies in prevention, and in order to insure that, the removal of the wounded 
eye becomes necessary. If the organ is blind, it matters little to the patient, 
the only consideration being one of personal appearance ; but if there is 
still some remaining sight, it becomes a grave and serious question for the 
surgeon to determine just what course to pursue, for even though the risk 
is great from letting the eye alone, the patient would naturally shrink, and 
the doctor hesitate about advising the removal of an eye which still retained 
some sight. There is sometimes a stage of sympathetic irritation that pre- 
cedes an attack of actual inflammation, the symptoms of which are a slight 
redness around the cornea; watering when the eye is exposed to a bright 
light; some difficulty in adjusting the organ for near vision, as reading or 
writing. If the patient is sufficiently near the doctor to apply for relief as 
soon as these symptoms of irritation are manifested, it may be safe to let the 
wounded eye alone; but under any other conditions, safety can only be 
guaranteed by removing the injured organ. 



284 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ACCOMMODATION AND REFRACTION. 

By "accommodation" is meant the power which the eye has of adjusting" 
itself to different distances; at one moment gazing at a remote point or 
viewing some natural scene; the next, engaged in reading, writing, or care- 
fully examining some very minute object. It is evident at once to the think- 
ing reader that some change has taken place in the eye; the crystalline lens 
is the part in which this change has been made. By reason of its soft and 
compressible structure, this lens can be made to alter the convexity of its 
surfaces, thus rendering its focal distance greater or less. The change is 
brought about by the action of the ciliary muscle mentioned on a previous 
page. The act of accommodation, though performed almost unconsciously, 
is thus accomplished by a distinct muscular effort. 

By " refraction " is understood the ability of the eye to bring to a focus 




49 Accommodation. 
The Right Half of the Cut shows the Eye at Rest; the Left Half, the Lens adjusted for Near Vision. 

on the retina parallel rays of light, or those coming from distant objects. It 
is a passive function, that is, one not accompanied by any muscular exer- 
tion, but is dependent on the shape of the eyeball and its inclosed transpar- 
ent media. When an eye can, by its refractive power, and without any 
accommodative effort, focus parallel or distant rays upon the retina, it is said 
to be emmetropic, that is, the distance between the cornea and the retina 
and the focal distance of the organ measure the same. There are some 
deviations from this condition of emmetropia, which will now be considered. 

NEAR-SIGHT— MYOPIA. 

A near-sighted eye is one whose measurement from before backward is 
too long. It is adjusted only for divergent rays of light, or those that come 
from near objects; consequently only those near objects can be seen clearly. 
Parallel rays of light coming from distant objects cannot be focused on the 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 285 

retina, but are brought to a point in front of it. The rays cross at this 
point and, continuing, form what are called "circles of diffusion" when they 
strike the retina. A concave glass gives these distant or parallel rays a suf- 
ficient degree of divergence to bring them to a point on the retina, instead 
of in front of it, and distant vision is made clear. The technical name for 
this disorder is myopia. In a large number of those so affected there is an 
inherited predisposition to the defect. It is seldom that a high degree of 
myopia is found in a child without there being a previous history of the 
difficulty in one of the parents or some near relatives. Still, it may be 
induced, without the inherited tendency, by an excessive use of the eyes. 
In young children, when the tissues are soft and yielding, when the organs 
are growing and developing, the prolonged and undue use of the eyes for 
near work, as looking at fine objects, may bring about this stretching or 
bulging of the eyeball in a backward direction. This is the result of a too 
long-continued effort of the accommodative act, together with a great strain 
of certain internal muscles by which the act of convergence is effected. The 
lateral pressure upon the globe by this tension of muscles tends to make 
the ball yield in the backward direction. 

A still further aggravation is induced by a poor light, as is often the 
case in schools, and by an indistinct print, in consequence of which the 
book is carried still nearer the eyes, and the tension from the greater con- 
vergence increases accordingly. 

Myopia is essentially a disease of civilization, it being found far more 
frequently among the educated than the illiterate, more in the cities than 
the country, and in the professions more than among those who labor with 
their hands. Where there is an inherited tendency, it almost invariably 
increases during the years of school-life, even when the greatest care is exer- 
cised. Statistics show a decided increase of short-sight from year to year at 
this period, so that, while in elementary schools only about six per cent, of 
the attendants are myopic, in the high schools and universities the propor- 
tion ranges from twenty-five to thirty per cent. 

One or two fallacies concerning near-sighted eyes, which have existed 
for a long time in the public mind, should be here mentioned. Many 
myopic individuals have been heard to remark that their eyes are only near- 
sighted, but are perfectly well and strong. This belief rests on the fact that 
they can see smaller objects, and in a weaker light, than others. The ex- 
planation of this is that they are able to approximate the object closer to 
the eye. All authors agree in saying that a near-sighted eye is an un- 
sound eye; that in it there exists more than a simple error of refraction. 
Optically considered, it may amount to nothing more, but anatomically it 
means an extension or elongation of the eyeball, and this indicates disease. 



286 COMPENDIUM OP' HEALTH. 

The other error is that the sight in a myopic eve improves 
with age. As we advance in years the pupil of the eye becomes 
smaller, and as this limits the circles of diffusion on the retina which come 
from the parallel rays of light reflected from distant objects, these objects are 
rendered rather more distinct. A near-lighted person can illustrate this 
effect very easily by looking through a pin-hole which has been made in a 
blackened card, or by partially closing the eyelids so that the pupil is made 
smaller. This latter procedure become> a fixed habit with some near- 
sighted people, as they soon learn that distant vision is thereby made much 
clearer. 

The eyes of all near-sighted children should be carefully watched and 
looked upon as unsound organs, capable indeed, by careful usage, of main- 
taining their condition of usefulness, but liable to many dangers from which 
normal eyes are comparativelv exempt. 

Treatment. — The refraction of a near-sighted eve becomes normal bv 




50. Shapes of the Eyeball. 
S, Rays of Eight. X, Normal Eye. M, Short-Sighted Eye. H, Long-Si°rh:ed Eve. 

placing a concave glass before it, which gives distant or parallel ravs of light 
a sufficient degree of divergence to be focused on the retina. For example, 
suppose a case in which the "far-point" of the eye is ten inches, that is, that 
this is the farthest point at which small objects look distinct; then a concave 
glass with a focal length of ten inches will give distant or parallel rays of 
light the same degree of divergence as if they had come from an object only 
ten inches from the eye. In the selection of glasses for near-sighted eyes, 
great care should be observed. The eyes should be carefully examined and 
their refraction be accurately determined. There is great danger that the 
existing difficulty will be increased by wearing glasses that are too strong. 
The common practice of trying on a number of pairs of glasses at an opti- 
cian's, or, what is verv much worse, of purchasing them from some itinerant 
spectacle vender, is to be deprecated, as in many cases it will be disastrous. 
To insure precision of adjustment in this really important, though appar- 
ently simple matter, one should act upon the advice of skilled counsel, and 
thus avoid the untoward experiences of many patients. 



MAN — THE E^E AND EAR. 287 

LONG-SIGHT.— HYPERMETROPIA. 

Whereas short-sight consists in an abnormal length of the diameter of 
the eyeball from the front backward, by which the focus is formed in front 
of the retina, long-sight, or hypermetropia, is an opposite condition, in which 
the focus is formed behind the retina. In the latter, the parallel rays of 
light form "circles of diffusion" on the retina while passing through to 
unite behind it. In this, only convergent rays of light can be united on the 
retina, and as these rays do not exist in nature unless the light has passed 
through a convex lens, a lens of this shape must be used to make clear 
vision. 

At first thought it would appear that an eye affected with hyperme- 
tropia would have no clear sight at any distance, but it is here that accom- 
modation plays an important part with the refraction. The crystalline lens, 
by virtue of the property it possesses of changing its shape, acts the same 
as a convex glass held in front of the eye, rendering the parallel rays con- 
vergent and bringing forward the focus of the eye so that it falls upon the 
retina. Distant vision in emmetrofiia is a passive sensation, and when, as 
in hypermetropia, it can only be accomplished by an act of accommoda- 
tion, the eye is laboring under a constant strain; this strain increases, and is 
proportionately greater the closer the object is brought to the eye, for the 
accommodation necessary for near vision must be added to the requisite 
amount for distance. 

When the degree of hypermetropia is slight, the person young and 
vigorous, or engaged in an occupation that does not require close vision, the 
defect may go unrecognized for some considerable length of time. But if 
the eyes are obliged to be used continuously for reading or writing, or in a 
poor or artificial light, they soon show symptoms of fatigue, which for a 
long time previous to the discovery of the true nature of the difficulty were 
hard to explain. The eyes have a normal appearance, and they may be 
used for a short time without inconvenience, but if near work is at all pro- 
longed, an uneasy sensation in the eye is experienced, which soon amounts 
to actual pain, these painful sensations being sometimes referred to the brow 
rather than to the eye. The print grows dim and misty, and it may be- 
come actually impossible to see it. If the work is laid aside for a short 
time, the annoying symptoms quickly disappear, but only to return when 
the work is again resumed. The trouble is always worse at night, and if 
work is persisted in, it at last becomes impossible to read for more than a 
moment or two without pain in the eyes and a blurring of the sight. Some- 
times a child has accidentally discovered by putting on his grandmother's 
glasses that his evening lesson can be prepared with far more ease and 



288 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

freedom from pain, but detection of his act is quickly followed by a removal 
of the dangerous things, and a solemn warning is administered against ever 
repeating the offense. 

Before the discovery of the nature of hypermetropia and the remedy 
which gives immediate and permanent relief, many a person whose tastes 
were of a literary tendency, and whose habits were studious, was condemned 
to a life of idleness, or compelled to engage in some distasteful occupation. 
A favorite prescription of probably the most eminent English ophthalmic 
surgeon of his day was a trip to Australia, engaging in sheep-raising, or 
some such pastoral work, with a complete abandonment of any business 
that would require reading or writing, lest incurable blindness be induced. 
Prof. Donders, of world-wide reputation for his researches in physiological 
optics, discovered that long-sight, or hypermetropia, consisted essentially in 
a shortening of the axis of the eyeball, and that the focus fell behind the 
retina, but that a proper convex glass brought the focus forward upon the 
retina, thus correcting the error in the eye, and making it emmetropic. 

ASTIGMATISM. 

This is a disorder which results from a lack of uniformitv in the curva- 
ture of the cornea. The perfectly formed cornea has nearly the same de- 
gree of convexity in all of its meridians, and these meridians consequentlv 
have the same focal distance. If now the symmetry of the cornea be dis- 
turbed, some of its meridians will be abnormal, the eve being perhaps 
myopic or hypermetropic in its horizontal meridian and normal in its ver- 
tical, or vice versa. Such a condition is known- as astigmatism. The 
bowl of a teaspoon will roughly illustrate the shape of an astigmatic cornea, 
the convexity of the meridians running parallel with the handle being much 
less than that of the ones at right angles to it. 

When astigmatism is present, there is always some impairment of the 
vision. Vertical and horizontal lines can not be seen with an equal degree 
of clearness, a fact of which advantage is taken in determining whether this 
peculiarity of refraction exists or not. If two sets of parallel black strokes, 
some in a horizontal and some in a vertical direction, are drawn on a piece 
of paper and viewed by an astigmatic person, the one set will appear clear 
and well defined, while the other will be blurred and indistinct. In most 
cases of this kind perfect correction can be obtained by cvlindrical glasses. 

OLD-SIGHT— PRESBYOPIA. 

As the years roll on and age advances, we find that we do not possess 
the same clear and distinct vision which we were accustomed to in earlv or 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 289 

middle life. This is particularly noticeable for near work; the paper or 
book is held further from the eyes; a difficulty is experienced by the seam- 
stress in threading the needle; a brighter artificial light is necessary, and 
even this does not fulfill all the requirements, for in a short time the sight 
becomes dim, the eyes are wearied and tired, and a strained, unnatural feel- 
ing comes over them, if the work is persisted in, which is relieved only by 
rest. This condition of the sight is called presbyopia, or old-sight, and is 
the result of physiological changes that take place in the eye in conse- 
quence of the advance of age. Prominent among these changes is a hard- 
ening of the substance of the crystalline lens, whereby it loses a certain 
amount of Its elasticity, the ciliary muscles being unable to overcome the 
deficiency and giving to the lens the degree of convexity necessary to enable 
it to focus clearly on the retina divergent rays of light, or those coming 
from near objects. Distant vision, being a passive sensation and not attended 
with any accommodative effort, remains unaffected. The point at which 
an emmetropic eye becomes presbyopic has been arbitrarily fixed at eight 
inches; that is, when the eye is unable to bring ordinary print up to eight 
inches, it is presbyopic. This occurs with nearly every person between the 
ages of forty and forty-five years. A convex glass then becomes necessary, 
by the aid of which vision is again made clear and the unpleasant sensa- 
tions of fatigue and over-work are caused to disappear. In choosing a glass, 
the weakest one which enables the eye to read ordinary type at a distance 
of eight or ten inches should be selected. This should cause the eye to 
be used with ease and comfort. 

HYGIENE OF THE EYE. 

There is no doubt that the health and integrity of the human organism 
are preserved in their highest degree by a regular and systematic exercise of 
all the parts, and the eyes form no exception to this rule. Excesses of any 
description are always to be avoided, but a certain amount of exercise of the 
eyes is conducive to the maintenance of their state of usefulness, and to the 
preservation of the normal acuteness of vision. It is difficult to fix any 
definite rule for regulating the use of the eyes, for even in perfect health 
there is such a wide difference in the strength and power of endurance in 
various persons that what would be an easy and harmless task for one indi- 
vidual to perform might prove very hazardous for another to attempt. An 
organ is supposed to be in perfect health when it performs its work so that 
the individual is unconscious of its action ; but when, through any feeling of 
pain or weariness, of blurring or indistinctness of the sight, we are made to 
realize that we have eyes, something is wrong. 



290 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Probably the most frequent use to which the eyes are put for near 
work is reading. For the purpose of testing the vision, letters have been 
arranged in sizes which increase in a definite ratio, and each set of these 
test-letters is seen at an angle of five minutes.* 

That is, No. i is seen up to twelve inches at an angle of five minutes; 
No. 2, at twenty-four inches, and so on. It is seldom that these letters can 
be read beyond the distance indicated. Of course there should be no con- 
tinuous reading of letters of the size just referred to, though normal vision 
should have the ability to read this fine print. The proper distance from 
the eye to the book is about eighteen inches, and then the print should look 
clear and distinct. If the book is brought any closer, it necessitates a greater 
tension of the accommodation, with a higher degree of convergence of the 
eyes, and fatigue will ensue the quicker. 

There are high degrees of far-sight, and some cases of astigmatism, in 
which the book must be brought very near the eyes in order to see at all. 
In these instances, the retinal image does not increase in clearness, but gains 
in size the nearer the book is brought to the eyes, and consequently the 
sight is better. 

Astigmatic eyes are often slow in distinguishing letters, and in reading 
seem to feel considerable uncertainty. This is due to the fact that they are 
unable to see vertical and horizontal strokes at the same time, and two acts 
of accommodation must be made in order to recognize the letters. 

It should be remembered that distant vision is a passive sensation, per- 

*Specimens of Test-t3 r pes used in determining- the acuteness of vision. 

NO. 1. 

" I have found it of great assistance to explain the rationale of the treatment to the patient. The exercise of 
the muscles is best accomplished by reading. I tell them that in reading pure muscular action is required, ae much 
as in lifting a weight. The patient is directed to select a book of good type, bu'" njt too absorbing, and to read regu- 
larly with the prescribed glasses three times a day. He must deter:: ine by trial the number of minutes he can read 
without discomfort." 

NO. 2. 

" He may find this to be thirty seconds, five minutes, ten minutes, or even more. He must, 
however, find this initial point. Starting at this point he must read regularly, and always 
with the glasses. The first reading must not he until one half hour after breakfast, the 
second at noon, the third finished before sund< wn. The periods of reading must be regu- 
larly increased from day to day. No other use of the eyes should be allowed." 

NO. 3. 

" In cases where discomfort occurs in less than five minutes, the increase should not 
be more than one half minute per day, until ten minutes are reached. In other cases 
the patient may increase one minute each day, until he can read thirty minutes three 
times a day without pain. If this can only be done with pain, the patient must be en- 
couraged to persist, notwithstanding the pain. Reading is the best exercise, but it fre- 
quently is the case that the patient is very anxious to write or sew." 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 291 

formed without any muscular effort, while reading is only accomplished by 
a decided muscular action. Hence, in any long-continued period of read- 
ing, it is well to occasionally lift the eyes from the book and gaze into the 
distance for an instant, that the muscular tension may be relieved, and the 
eyes be rested. In some schools it is a rule that during the hours of study 
the child shall under no pretext raise his eyes from the book; and a very 
pernicious rule it is, being one of the most fruitful causes of short-sight, 
especially when any hereditary tendency exists. 

Aside from bringing the book close to the eyes, one of the most in- 
jurious positions to assume while reading is lying down. It is very diffi- 
cult to hold the book in the proper position when reclining, and unless the 
book is held directly in front of the eyes, which would soon become very 
tiresome, too great a strain is put upon the muscles which draw the eyes 
downward. Besides, when the head is on a level with the body, a greater 
amount of blood is drawn to the brain, and this tends to produce conges- 
tion in the delicate membranes of the eye. 

Reading should never be persisted in when the eyes are tired, or when 
the light is poor and insufficient. A particularly trying time is toward the 
close of the day when daylight is disappearing. It is far better for the eyes 
to work by the same degree of illumination in the morning, for then the 
light is increasing rather than diminishing, and the eyes would be rested 
and in a fresher condition. 

The eyes should be used very sparingly when the body is overcome 
with fatigue, when there has been great loss of sleep, or during recovery 
from severe illness. By inattention to this last caution some eyes have been 
permanently injured, so that they could never be used again with comfort. 
It is not unfrequently the case after a severe attack of diphtheria that there 
is a total inability to read or see small objects, owing to a paralysis of the 
ciliary muscle; the muscle of accommodation, when it is not completely 
paralyzed, is often so weakened that any tax on it causes pain. 

Reading while riding in a carriage or traveling on the cars is a source 
of fatigue to the eyes, necessitating a greater demand on the muscle of 
accommodation. The motion and jar of the vehicle cause an unsteadiness 
in the position of the book, so that the eye is continually adjusting itself to 
the varying distance at which the print is held. The difference between 
reading under these circumstances and under the most favorable conditions 
is the same as that between holding a given weight continuously for a cer- 
tain number of minutes and lifting up and setting down the same every 
minute during the time. 

A few words may here be added on the subject of illumination, the 
source and quality of light, and the direction from which it comes. Day- 



292 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

light is the most natural, and therefore the best illumination for the eye to 
work with. Injury may be inflicted if the light is either too strong or too 
weak, though the dangers from an excess are less than those from a defi- 
ciency, for a surplus amount of light can always be regulated by shades. 

A good artificial light is better than poor and defective daylight. The 
clearness with which an object is seen depends not alone upon its size, but 
also upon the amount of light reflected from its surface, and the reduction 
of the illumination is equivalent to reducing the size. To counterbalance 
this, it becomes necessary to bring the object closer to the eye, and a greater 
tax is laid on the accommodative and converging powers. A great deal of 
work, particularly in the line of study, is performed by artificial light, and 
in the substitute that must take the place of daylight, the most important 
requirements are that it possess a sufficient illuminating power, and be able 
to maintain this in a uniform degree. A light that flickers or burns unstead- 
ily is always bad. This is one striking fault of gas-light when used with an 
ordinary burner. The Argand burner gives a good light, and is free from 
unsteadiness ; any excessive glow is softened by a white porcelain shade and 
the amount of illumination is quickly and easily regulated. The fact that 
the flame from this burner gives out a large amount of heat is one disadvan- 
tage. This drawback is not so marked in an oil-lamp known as the "stu- 
dent's lamp," which is furnished with an Argand burner, chimney and shade, 
and, though its illuminating power is not equal to gas, it is preferred by many. 

In all artificial light, the yellow color largely predominates, and in this 
respect it is very different from white sunlight. This preponderance of the 
yellow rays can be obviated by a shade or chimney tinted with blue. 

The direction from which the light comes is a matter of some impor- 
tance. It should not come from directly in front, for light that strikes the 
eye thus causes an undue contraction of the pupil, and so reduces the quan- 
tity of light reflected from the object, which is equivalent to reducing its 
size. Nor should the light come from directly behind, for the body then 
throws a shadow which covers the object. Neither should it come from the 
right hand, for in writing the hand throws a shadow over the paper, and a 
shadow moving over a lighted surface is a source of great annoyance to the 
eye. The best direction is from the left side, and the source of the light 
should be slightly higher than the level of the head. Windows are often 
constructed so as to extend nearly or quite to the floor, in which case a portion 
of the light comes from below the level of the head. The lower part of 
the window should then be covered with a shade. It is customary to adorn 
the upper part of windows with curtains and shades, though from an 
optical point of view, and for the comfort of the eye, it would be better for 
the order to be reversed, and the lower part of the window be shaded. 



SEOTionsr 11. 

THE EAR. 



ANATOMY. 



NATOMISTS make three divisions of the ear, the external, middle 
w and internal. The external comprises the auricle and auditory canal. 
| The middle consists of the ear-drum, or tympanum, the Eustachian 

"^^r* tube, and the mastoid cells which are located back of the drum. 

A membrane, commonly called the drum-head, separates the auditory 




51. Section of an Ear. 

A, Auricle. B, Auditory Canal. C, Half of the Drum-Head. E, Incus, or Anvil. M, Malleus, or 

Hammer. H, "Cochlea, or Snail-Shell. G, Semi-circular Canals. I, Eustachian 

Tube. D, Small Muscle. 

canal from the cavity of the drum. The internal ear is otherwise known 
as the labyrinth, from the complicated structure of its numerous membranes, 
chambers and passages. Its main part is a large central cavity, called the 
vestibule. Into the front of this cavity opens a spiral-shaped passage which 



294 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



is not unlike a minute snail-shell, and hence is named the cochlea. At the 
back of the same chamber enter three minute tubes, each in the form of a 
half-circle, and therefore known as the semi-circular canals. A more de- 
tailed study of these divisions will now be made. 



THE EXTERNAL EAR. 

The Auricle. — The general shape of the auricle is that of a funnel, its 
surface presenting several well marked ridges and depressions. It is com- 
posed of layers of cartilage, except the lower portion, or lobule, the part 
which is often pierced preparatory to wearing jewelry, this being made up 
of fat. The auricle gradually merges into the auditory canal, much as the 
flaring mouth of a trumpet converges and becomes continuous with its tube. 
The skin which covers this part of the ear continues within and forms the 
lining membrane of the canal, passing down to the inner extremity of this 





52. Outer Surface of the Drum-Head. 

A, B, Hammer-Handle. C, Short Projection of 
the Hammer. 



53. Ixner Surface of the Drum-Head. 

A, B, Hammer-Handle. C, Head of the Hammer. 

D, Body of the Anvil. F, Lone Process of 

the Anvil, which joins the Stirrup. 



passage, closing it, and becoming the outer layer of the drum-head described 
below. 

The Auditory Canal. — As remarked before, this canal is a continua- 
tion of the auricle. It is a little over an inch in length, and about 
a quarter of an inch in diameter, being slightly narrower near its 
center than at either end. The skin of this passage is supplied with 
glands which secrete perspiration, and from which the hairs grow. 
It has also another set of glands, peculiar to this locality, which 
secrete the ear-wax, a substance which keeps the skin of the canal in a soft 
and moist condition, and, from its sticky nature, tends to prevent the entrance 
of small insects into the ear. At its inner extremity, the auditory canal is 
closed by the drum-head, and is thus separated from the tympanum, or 
drum-cavity. 

The Drum-Head. — The drum-head, or membrana tympani, is a thin, 
translucent membrane, slightly oval in shape, about a quarter of an inch in 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 2 ( J5 

diameter, and less than one two-hundredth of an inch in thickness. Though 
so delicate, it can be separated into three distinct layers. The outer layer, 
as noted above, is a continuation of the skin lining the auditory canal; the 
inner one is a like continuation of the mucous lining of the drum ; the mid- 
dle layer is composed of fibrous tissues and forms a framework for the 
other two. 

THE MIDDLE EAR. 

The Ear-Drzim. — This drum or cavity, called also the tympanum, is 
a little six-sided chamber measuring about a half inch from top to bottom, 
the same from front to back, and about one-sixth of an inch from within 
outward. Its roof consists of a thin plate of bone which separates this 
cavity from the one which incloses the brain; directly beneath its floor 
passes the jugular vein, one of the large blood-vessels coming from the 
brain; on the front wall of the cavity can be seen the opening into the 





54. Bones of the Ear. 55- Articulated Bones of the Ear. 

(four diameters.) 
I, 2,-3, Hammer viewed from different positions. 

'4, 5, Anvil so viewed. 7, 9, Stirrup. f, g, h, i» j, Hammer, a, k, b, c, e, Anvil. 

S, Foot- Plate of the Stirrup. d, 1, Stirrup. 

Eustachian tube described below; a large part of the back wall is taken up 
by the opening into the mastoid cells; the outer wall is made up mostly of 
the drum-head; the inner one is bone and forms the division between the 
drum-cavity and the internal ear, or labyrinth. In the bony partition just 
mentioned are two apertures, one oval, the other circular, both leading into 
the labyrinth, the circular one being closed by a delicate membrane which 
is called the second drum-head; the office of the oval one is mentioned 
immediately below. 

Within the ear-drum, and stretching from its outer wall, or drum-head,, 
to its inner wall of bone, is a little chain composed of three minute bones, 
known as the malleus, or hammer, the incus, or anvil, and the stapes, or 
stirrup, the names being derived from a resemblance respectively to the 



296 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

objects named. The outer end of this chain is the handle of the hammer, 
which is firmly joined to the drum-head by an attachment effected between 
its middle and outer layers. The head of the hammer rests against the body 
of the anvil, and formswith.it a movable joint. The incus is less like an 
anvil than a bicuspid tooth, one root longer than the other, as may be seen 
from the accompanying illustrations. The long point of the anvil in turn 
forms a joint with the small angle of the stirrup, the base or foot-plate of 
the latter fitting accurately into the oval aperture or window which opens 
through the bony partition into the labyrinth. The stirrup is the smallest 
bone in the body. These little bones are held in position by ligamentous at- 
tachments, which are fastened to the walls of the drum or tympanum, and 
motion is imparted to them by three small muscles. 

The Eustachian Tube. — In the front wall of the ear-drum is the 
opening into the Eustachian tube, a narrow canal about an inch and. a half 
long, which connects the drum with the upper and back part of the throat. 

The upper portion of this tube is composed 

of bone; the lower part, of cartilage. At 

the junction of the bony and cartilaginous 

portions the tube is perceptibly constricted, 

and this part is therefore called the isthmus; 

[5j but each end is considerably larger, its lower 

opening, called the pharyngeal orifice, being 

^pS^ 1 ^ quite broad and trumpet-shaped. 

56. the labyrinth (highly magnified). The Mastoid Cells.— In the rear wall of 

i, 2j 3, 4) semi-Circular Canals, s, 6, Vesti- the ear-drum is an opening which leads into 

buie. 7, snaii-sheii. what are known as the mastoid cells. The 

hard and rounded prominence which one may find behind the auricle, or 
outer ear, has a peculiar internal structure of irregularly shaped cells, much 
like those of a sponge in appearance, which communicate with one another 
as well as with the ear-drum. 

The whole of the middle ear is lined with a mucous membrane, which 
passes into all parts of the numerous divisions of the mastoid cells, covers 
the walls of the tympanum, forms the innermost layer of the drum-head, 
invests the three little bones, with their muscles and ligaments, passes into 
and lines the Eustachian tube, and at its pharyngeal orifice becomes con- 
tinuous with the mucous lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. 

THE INTERNAL EAR, OR LABYRINTH. 

The internal ear is the most important division of the auditory appa- 
ratus, since it contains the auditory nerve. Its divisions are now to be 
studied. 




MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 297 

The Vestibule. — This is a little pear-shaped cavity about one-fifth of 
an inch in diameter, which communicates in its outer part with the ear- 
drum, through the oval window into which the base of the stirrup-bone 
fits; and in its inner part is connected with the semi-circular canals and the 
cochlea. 

The Semi- Circular Canals. — Behind the vestibule are situated three 
semi-circular canals, both ends of each opening into the vestibule, except 
that two utilize one opening at one end, thus reducing the number of 
orifices in the back wall of the vestibule to five. 

The Cochlea. — In the front wall of the vestibule is an opening which 
leads into the cochlea, or snail-shell, the most complex part of the labyrinth. 
It consists of a bony tube wound spirally two and a half times around 
a central column of bone. This tube is divided throughout its whole 
length by a thin plate of bone which projects into it until it meets a section 
or curtain of the membranous labyrinth mentioned below, the two making 
a complete partition between the sides or halves of the spiral tube. The 
round window in the bony wall which separates the internal ear from the 
drum-cavity opens into the cochlea. 

The bony labyrinth, including the vestibule, semi-circular canals and 
the cochlea, is filled with a water-like fluid in which floats what is known 
as the membranous labyrinth. The latter is a smaller membranous dupli- 
cate or fac-simile of the bony labyrinth, with parts exactly corresponding 
to all the intricate and winding compartments of the latter, and held in 
place by delicate attachments on the bony walls. This membranous laby- 
rinth is also filled with a water-like fluid in which float the still more deli- 
cate and terminal fibers of the auditory nerves. In the cochlea is a remark- 
able arrangement of these nerve-fibers, the appearance which they present 
being not unlike that of the key-board of a piano; this has been named 
the " organ of Corti," in honor of the discoverer. There are somewhat 
more than three thousand of these fibers in the human ear, and it is sup- 
posed that they are so attuned as to correspond to and vibrate in unison 
with the various musical sounds. 

PHYSIOLOGY. 

Sound is the impression made on the auditory nerve by motion from 
rapidly vibrating substances. The atmosphere is the medium by which 
these vibrations are usually conveyed to the auditory nerve. A familiar 
illustration of this is seen in the violin, the string of which, on being struck, 
is at once made to vibrate rapidly. The vibrations of the string are com- 
municated to the air which surrounds it, and which is thrown into similar 
vibrations that extend outward from their point of origin in the form of a 



298 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

circle. These vibrations consist of expansions and condensations of air, 
and, if they could be rendered visible, would resemble the little waves or 
ripples seen on the surface of a pond of water which has been agitated by 
a pebble thrown into it. The perception by the ear of these waves of the 
air, called sound-waves, is hearing. A musical sound or tone is produced 
when the length of each sound-wave is the same, or when they occur at 
regular intervals; but if they arise at irregular intervals, simply a noise is 
the result. The greater the number of vibrations of a sonorous body the 
higher the musical tone which is produced. In the ordinary piano the 
vibrations range from 33 to 3,960 per second, between the lowest and the 
highest tones. Some musical instruments give forth notes having 4,500 or 
more vibrations a second, but these high and shrill sounds are generally 
very unpleasant and painful to the ear, from giving rise to such rapid and 
violent vibrations of air in the auditory canal. 

The Auricle. — The auricle is useful as a reflector, condenser and con- 
ductor of the waves of sound. That it is not essential to hearing has been 
demonstrated in many instances wherein that appendage has been lost. 
An old-time and now obsolete punishment for cowardice consisted in 
depriving the culprit of his ears by cutting them off. After this mutilation 
the hearing power was but little affected, the chief disadvantage being the 
personal defect. Still, in the matter of hearing, some importance is to be 
attached to the auricle; every one is familiar with the fact that a person 
with impaired hearing, when listening intently, will place the hand behind 
the ear, thereby increasing its surface and facilitating its function as a 
reflector of sound. 

Auditory Canal. — The sound-waves which come in contact with the 
auricle are reflected to the opening of the auditory canal, pass down that 
tube, and strike the drum-head. 

Aside from its function of reflecting and conducting the sound-waves, 
the external ear affords protection to the deeper and more important parts 
of the hearing apparatus. As the eyelids serve to prevent many injurious 
substances from entering the eye, so the auditory canal guards against the 
incursion of insects or small particles which might find their way into the 
ear; not because of any power it has to close, but from its peculiarly tortu- 
ous form, and from the sticky nature of its secretion, the ear-wax, which is 
smeared about its entrance. 

TJie Driim, or Tympanum. — The drum is a cavity which, in its normal 
condition, is filled with air. The drum of the musician is familiar to every 
one, consisting of a hollow wooden or metallic cylinder, over which is 
tightly stretched an animal membrane; but in order that the membrane may 
vibrate freely, the air must have free access to both surfaces, and this is 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 299 

afforded to the inner surface by a hole in the side of the instrument. 
The ear-drum contains the same essential features, the hollow box, the 
animal membrane, and the opening for supplying the cavity with air. The 
Eustachian tube, through which the drum is ventilated, does not remain 
constantly open, but during the act of swallowing the walls of the tube are 
drawn apart, so that air can pass from the throat to the drum. Thus the 
supply of air in this cavity is kept constant and even. In certain diseases of 
the middle ear, the lining of the Eustachian tube becomes swollen and the 
passage so obstructed that no opening remains; the air in the tympanum is 
absorbed, and, as no fresh supply can reach it from the throat, a partial 
vacuum is formed. The pressure from within being diminished, the air in 
the auditory canal pushes the drum-head inward, thereby diminishing the size 
of the drum-cavity. This sinking in of the drum-head causes pain and 
ringing in the ear, with a certain degree of deafness. 

The Eustachian tube opens when any sudden and loud sound strikes 
the membrane, thereby preserving the latter from injury and possible 
rupture. There would be disadvantages in having the Eustachian tube 
constant^ open, prominent among which would be the confusion attending 
the passage of the sound of one's own voice directly from the throat through 
the open tube, the sound-waves thereby coming in contact with those that 
were communicated to the membrane through the auditory canal. Again, 
air would pass in and out of the drum during each act of respiration, thus 
subjecting the drum-head to a constant flapping oscillation, which would 
interfere with its proper vibration in response to the motion of the sound- 
waves. 

It is not unfrequently the case that through accident or disease the 
drum-head becomes ruptured, and it was formerly supposed that if this 
membrane were once perforated the hearing was irrevocably lost. We 
know now that not only may the drum-head be perforated, but quite a 
large section of it be destroyed by ulceration, and still a very fair hearing be 
maintained. In fact, in some diseases of the drum it becomes actually nec- 
essary to puncture the membrane in order to liberate the mucus or pus 
which has formed in the cavity behind it as the result of inflammatory proc- 
esses. As the inflammation subsides and recovery of the disease advances, 
these openings generally close, and often by the finest tests that can be made 
it cannot be discovered that the hearing is impaired. There is no tissue in 
the human body that heals more readily, or possesses the property in a 
higher degree of reproducing itself. 

The Internal Ear, or Labyrinth. — The physiology of this section of 
the ear, notwithstanding an immense amount of research and study, still re- 
mains imperfectly understood. Located deeply in the solid portion of the 



300 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

temporal bone, with a structure so delicate and complicated, and at the same 
time so inaccessible, many of the questions concerning its functions are of 
necessity still debatable. It has been customary for physiologists to regard 
the vestibule as the part of the labyrinth in which noise or ordinary sounds 
are perceived ; the cochlea as the seat of the perception and recognition of 
musical tones; while in the semi-circular canals is determined the direction 
from which sounds proceed. Late physiological experiments on the 
semi-circular canals of birds and animals show that the nerves situated in 
these delicate tubes are in some way connected with the co-ordination of 
muscular movement and the maintenance of the body in a state of equi- 
librium. 

Summary. — In a brief review of hearing, let us trace a wave of 
sound from its point of origin; starting, for example, with a violin-string 
that has been set in motion. These vibrations communicate their motion to 
the adjoining air, which is immediately thrown into a series of waves or un- 
dulations that extend in every direction. These waves, which convey the 
sound at about the rate of 2,000 feet a second, strike the auricle, are col- 
lected and reflected by it to the opening of the auditory canal, pass down 
through this tube, and strike the drum -head, which at once responds to the 
shock by a to-and-fro movement; the little hammer-bone attached to this 
membrane participates in the motion and transmits the impulse to the next 
bone, the anvil, which in turn sets the stirrup in motion; the foot-plate of 
this last-mentioned bone, set in the oval window, slides in and out, like the 
movement of a piston in a cylinder; this motion of the stirrup agitates the 
fluid that is contained in the bony labyrinth; the little membranous sacs 
which float in this fluid set up a motion, and communicate it to the many 
thousand little fibrils that spring from their inner surface, the ultimate dis- 
tribution of the auditory nerve. Each of these delicate threads is so at- 
tuned as to vibrate in unison with its corresponding external sound. This 
sound may arise from the simple tone of a single string, or it may be pro- 
duced by the most varied and composite tones of a symphony, requiring for 
its production a hundred instruments; each individual sound being selected 
by its own corresponding little fiber, while the whole is transmitted to the 
intellect by a single impulse as one grand harmony. 

DISEASES OF THE EAR. 

In a work of this kind it is impossible to give a minutely detailed 
description of the diseases of the ear, or of their treatment, not only because 
the scope of the book forbids one to proceed to such a length, but chiefly 
because a long and careful course of training is necessary to enable even the 



MAN — THE EYE AND EAR. 301 

physician to know what remedial agents to apply to this delicate organism, 
and how best to use them. 

Disease of this organ in most cases means deafness, or at least an im- 
pairment of hearing. The number of people who have lost a portion of 
the hearing in one or both ears is surprisingly large, some writers estimat- 
ing it as high as thirty per cent. Deafness often creeps on the victim so 
gradually that for a long time he experiences no difficulty, and only when 
some delicate test is made, as listening to the tick of a distant watch or the 
low and faint tones of the human voice, does he awaken to the fact that 
his hearing is not perfect. Every person has what might be termed a 
superfluous amount of hearing, that is, hearing that he might lose without 
any serious inconvenience, hearing that he would not miss in the ordi- 
nary affairs of his life. People who are accustomed to spend a consider- 
able portion of every day in a noisy place, as in certain manufacturing estab- 
lishments or on board a train of cars, would not miss this fine degree of 
hearing. Again, laborers who are in the noise of active out door work all 
day, and at night shut up in closely confined and noisy quarters, have no 
demand made on them for any very acute hearing, and do not think that 
a certain degree of impairment means any loss of the function. 

It is intended to notice some of the more common disorders of the 
ear which, if neglected, may terminate in immediate deafness, with a view 
to calling attention to the necessity of having an early and intelligent recog- 
nition of the difficulties, so that the proper means may be instituted for their 
removal. It is well known that in the beginning or earlier stages of any 
disease medicinal treatment is more responsive and prompter results are 
obtained, but in no class of maladies does this truism apply more forcibly 
than in affections of the ear. On this point no more appropriate words can 
be found than the following, taken from the introductory chapter of a work 
by Dr. Anton Von Troeltsch: "No one will deny that every high degree 
of impairment of hearing is a very serious affection to the person concerned, 
in all his relations; because it limits very much his intercourse with others, 
and when it increases to a great extent, it may entirely destroy his capacity 
for business and social intercourse. Thus it is not only the enjoyment of 
life which is greatly impaired by deafness, but many persons are affected in 
their vocation, in the exercise of their calling, and in their capability of se- 
curing a livelihood, by a loss of hearing. Not less important is the influ- 
ence which impairment of hearing exerts upon the intellectual development 
of a child. In childhood, the foundation for the development of our intel- 
lectual being rests largely upon the acuteness of our senses, especially of the 
eye and ear. The senses are the mediators between the brain of the child 
and the outside world by means of which he gradually appreciates all de- 



302 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tails. The impressions conveyed to the child's brain excite thought, im- 
agination and expression. The more certainly and accurately the senses 
of a child convey impressions from without the more clear will be the 
perceptions in the brain, and the more sharply defined will be the under- 
standing and applications of these impressions for the formation of ideas 
and expressions. On the other hand, if the child sees imperfectly, if he 
hears only a part of what is addressed to him, from these imperfect, indefi- 
nite, and often inapplicable impressions of the senses are produced only 
confused ideas, wanting both in clear definition and perfect form. Who 
would venture to deny that the greater part of education, both at home 
and at school, is transmitted to the child through the ear, not only so long 
as he is unable to read, but even later than this? Every teacher will allow 
that deaf children are particularly prone to become fickle or visionary; that 
it is especially difficult for them to give continuous attention during instruc- 
tion or conversation ; that, as a rule, it is hard to get them to concentrate 
their thoughts. On the other hand, we cannot wonder that in such children, 
unless nature and education have been particularly adapted to correct the 
disadvantages of early deafness, are produced imperfect and impractical 
characters, often decidedly illogical in thought, superabundant in speech, 
vacillating and uncertain in business; in short, their whole being has a 
character peculiar to itself." 

There seems to be a senseless and studied obstinacy on the part of 
many individuals afflicted with ear-troubles, ofttimes of a most disgusting 
nature, about adopting any rational means that may be recommended by the 
physician for their benefit or improvement; but this same class will grasp 
with the greatest eagerness at some ridiculous suggestion that may be 
gathered from any unreliable source, and the greater the imposition on 
their credulity the more willing they are to accept it. For instance, oils 
extracted from the skunk and rattlesnake are said to have cured deafness. 
Human as well as animal urine has been instilled into the ear for the relief 
of pain; while another advises for the same trouble the dropping of woman's 
milk into the ear, but adds the very important caution that, if it be a 
boy who is affected, the milk must be from a woman who is nursing an in- 
fant of the other sex. For the removal of a foreign body from the ear it 
has been recommended to cut the head from a small lizard, place it in the 
ear, and leave it there for twenty-four hours, when it will be found to have 
the offending substance in its mouth. Comments on such folly ought to be 
unnecessary, and yet so prone are many even in this enlightened age to 
trust to charms that they will resort to such expedients until their ills have 
been so long neglected that medical treatment may be in vain. 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 303 

FROST-BITE. 

In very cold weather it is no uncommon thing to meet with frozen 
ears, a disorder which needs no description. 

Treatment. — The treatment in such cases is the rubbing of the af- 
fected part with snow, or with cold water, the temperature of which may 
be gradually increased as feeling and sensation are restored. Care should 
be exercised in thus manipulating the organ, as rough handling may pro- 
duce some injury to the auricle. As the skin of the auricle is often lost in 
a frost-bite, it is well to rub cosmoline over the parts for several days. 

ECZEMA. 

This disease, commonly termed salt-rheum, is very frequently met with 
in the auricle. It occurs more often in children than adults, and in females 
oftener than in males. The symptoms are a swelling and redness of the 
ear, with a formation of vesicles which break and discharge a clear and 
sticky fluid ; this dries on the surface and forms thick and unsightly crusts. 
The disease may be brought on by a lack of attention to cleanliness, or by 
wearing on the head dressings that are too warm and fit over the ears too 
snugly. Disfiguration of the auricle is very apt to result, the ridges and de- 
pressions of the surface being sometimes obliterated; more often, however, 
the ear remains swollen, enlarged, and unsightly. 

Treatment. — In this affection too frequent washings are to be 
avoided, but the crusts are to be carefully removed by soaking them with 
warm water, or, better, by the application of a poultice made of ground flax- 
seed, care being taken that none of the latter gets into the canal. This 
process is slow and tedious, but if the crusts are torn off carelessly and too 
quickly a raw, bleeding surface is left, and deformity is more likely to result. 
After the ear has been thoroughly cleansed and dried, a powder composed of 
equal parts of oxide of zinc and starch, which have been carefully pulverized 
and mixed, is to be dusted over the surface; this should remain without 
being disturbed as long as possible. Another application which is often 
very efficacious is cod-liver oil and glycerine, equal parts of which are to be 
rubbed over the diseased parts after they have been cleansed as described 
above. Attention should be given to the diet, and in many cases medication 
must be directed to the general system in order to prevent recurrences. 

Eczema of the auricle frequently extends into the auditory canal, where 
it is much more troublesome to treat. While confined to the auricle, it 
does not affect the hearing, but its presence in the canal may seriously im- 
pair it if the disease progresses and extends inward, giving rise to ulcera- 
tion and even perforation of the drum-head. 



304 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

CHAFING.— INTERTRIGO. 

This is an irritation of the skin that is frequently found between the 
posterior surface of the auricle and the side of the head, and sometimes 
amounts to an actual soreness and rawness of the surfaces. It is oftener no- 
ticed in very fat children or those who perspire a great deal. It may 
come from too much washing, or from keeping the head too warm. 

Treatment. — The trouble is easily remedied by keeping the parts 
as dry as possible and dusting on a little powdered starch, to which it may 
be necessary to add a little oxide of zinc. 

BOIL OR ABSCESS IN THE EAR. 

This is sometimes called "circumscribed inflammation of the auditory 
canal," as distinguished from the diffuse type which is treated in the next 
section. An inflammation of this kind in any locality is always a painful 
affection, and when the auditory canal is the seat of the difficulty, serious 
apprehensions are often entertained for the safety of the hearing. The dis- 
order usually commences with an itching or burning sensation, which may 
be referred to the mouth of the canal, or may be situated deeper than can 
be reached by the finger. These sensations are quickly succeeded by pain, 
the severity of which increases more and more as the disease progresses, 
until at last it becomes almost unbearable. There is considerable swelling 
in the skin of the canal, with great tenderness to the touch; it is impossible 
to lie on the affected side, and even the touching of the auricle causes pain ; 
the suffering is also increased during eating, as the motion of the lower jaw 
during the action of chewing causes pressure on the inflamed part. As the 
swelling in the canal continues, the passage becomes smaller and contract- 
ed, and, in severe cases, the walls actually come in contact, producing there- 
by a complete closure; this, of course, causes impairment of the hearing 
proportionate to the amount and continuance of the swelling. The patient 
is often unable to sleep; there is a loss of appetite, with foul tongue, and 
more or less fever. These symptoms last from three to five days, when 
the swelling often breaks and there is a discharge of pus which brings a 
relief from the acute symptoms; the pain ceases, the ear can again be 
touched and handled, and, as the swelling disappears, the hearing returns. 
The flow of pus lasts about three days, and then the ear gradually returns 
to its normal condition. This is the course if the disease is limited to the 
formation of one boil or abscess ; but there are generally several recurrences 
before the process stops, and a crop of these little swellings often appears 
in the ear. To have the disease limited to one is a fortunate exception. 
Often the discharge no sooner begins to decline after one attack than a 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 305 

fresh sensation of the burning and itching- announces the beginning of an- 
other boil, and a renewal of the whole difficulty. 

This disorder is generally an evidence of a wrong state of the system 
of some kind. Irregularity in eating and sleeping, or a protracted season 
of pleasure and gaiety, with the late hours which it necessitates and the 
injudicious food usually indulged in, is apt to be followed by a series of boils. 

Treatment. — The aim of the treatment during the painful stage is to 
cut short the attack by hastening the formation of pus. To prevent recur- 
rences, special attention to the general system is required ; above all other 
things, regularity in v eating, sleeping, and the taking of outdoor exercise is 
to be insisted on. When the first symptoms of the inflammation are felt, 
a small pledget of cotton wet in a solution composed of equal parts of 
spirits of camphor and glycerine and introduced into the canal may stop the 
attack; too much dependence, however, must not be placed on this meas- 
ure. For the relief of pain, and at the same time to promote the formation 
of pus, heat is the best means that can be used. Hot water is always avail- 
able and at the same time is the best medium that can be used for this pur- 
pose, the fountain syringe or nasal douche being the best instrument for its 
application, because producing a continuous stream. Even filling the ear 
with hot water from a teaspoon will answer in the absence of a more suit- 
able appliance. During the intervals between the warm irrigations, a piece 
of cotton wet with glycerine, to which a few drops of laudanum have been 
added, can be kept in the ear. Small bags filled with bran or salt and laid 
against the side of. the head, are convenient for applying dry heat. Poul- 
tices had better be abstained from, for they are no more efficient and may 
do harm. 

Probably the quickest means of ending a boil in the ear is to make a 
free incision into the swelling, even before any pus has formed. The bleed- 
ing which follows, and which is to be encouraged by applying warm water 
immediately afterward, brings relief and hastens recovery. Of course, for 
such a procedure the services of a physician are necessary. The adminis- 
tration of aconite or pulsatilla in drop doses, or calcium sulphide in one- 
tenth grain doses, is recommended during an acute attack. Between the 
attacks the ear should be protected from cold air, when out of doors, by 
wearing cotton or an ear-muff; but when the recurrences have ceased, these 
should be abandoned. 

DIFFUSE INFLAMMATION OF THE CANAL. 

There is another form of inflammaticm of the auditory canal which 
differs from the one just described in that the whole lining of the canal is 



306 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

implicated, though the severity of the sensations is less marked. The pre- 
dominating symptom is a persistent and obstinate itching, together with 
which there is often some pain, with a sensation of fullness and impairment 
of the hearing. The skin lining the ear is dry, red and thickened, and there 
is a notable absence of the ear-wax. The disease is often caused by digging 
or picking the ear with an ear-pick or hair-pin, or by dropping into it oils 
or some substance which is resorted to for the relief of toothache. 

Treatment. — This can hardly be undertaken by one other than the 
physician. In case of pain the ear can be syringed with warm water, and 
for the relief of the itching a small quantity of cosmoline can be smeared 
over the irritated and diseased surface; but for anything further competent 
medical advice should be sought. 

HARDENED OR ACCUMULATED WAX. 

The ear-wax in a state of health is soft, of an oily nature, and yellow 
in its color. It is secreted in small quantities, and the natural tendency of 
the ear is to expel it without any external assistance. But it is sometimes 
secreted in such large quantities that nature cannot remove it in the ordinary 
manner. It is then abnormal in quality as well as quantity; instead of the 
yellow color, it appears dark-brown, sometimes quite black; and from a soft, 
yielding substance, it may become as hard as a stone. The changes come 
about gradually, and so long as the auditory canal is not entirely blocked or 
obstructed, one may be unaware that any trouble exists; but some morning 
he may find himself quite deaf. The condition is all the more unaccount- 
able because the night before the hearing was apparently perfect. But the 
plug of wax which has slowly been gathering and hardening has slipped 
or been pushed down on the drum-head, and, stopping the canal as well, 
has produced this sudden deafness. Together with the impairment of hear- 
ing, there will frequently be associated pain, noises in the ear, and dizziness. 
The peculiarity of the trouble is the sudden nature of the attack. It may 
come on after bathing and getting water in the ears, and is often brought 
about by cleaning the ears out with the twisted end of a towel. The patient 
nearly always refers the trouble to a cold, and as this is a disease of the 
ear that is usually quickly relieved, he realizes, after receiving help, that the 
hearing has not for a long time been what it should have been. 

Treatment. — Although the symptoms of this affection are well 
marked, it can be positively decided upon only by an inspection of the ear 
with the proper instruments, which must be done by the physician. After 
the diagnosis is once made, the removal of the obstruction is accomplished 
by the use of warm water and the syringe, or any other appliances adapted 



MAX THE EYE AND EAR. 3(J7 

to the case, according to the judgment of the surgeon. It is not unfrequently 
the case that an entire removal at one time is impossible, and s&me solvent 
must be dropped into the ear to soften the mass; suffice it to say, that deaf- 
ness from this cause alone should be entirely relieved, and that the proper 
means, when used in a skillful manner, are unattended with pain. 

FOREIGN BODIES. 

Cases of foreign bodies in the ear are met with in children much oftener 
than in adults. The list of articles that may find their way into the 
auditory canal of a child is quite a long one. Grains of corn, coffee-berries, 
peas, seeds of every description, pebbles, bits of coal, chalk, glass, wood and 
paper, buttons, beads, pins and tacks, have all been removed from the 
^ears of children. A foreign body in the ear may or may not cause a good 
deal of trouble. Articles like seeds, which swell and enlarge from the ab- 
sorption of moisture, are apt to cause pain from pressure on the sides of the 
canal, and deafness from closing the passage, while instances have been 
known in which a glass bead or button has been retained in the ear for 
years without inconvenience or even knowledge of its presence. If no pain 
results from it, the child, either through forgetfulness or fear of punishment, 
may not speak of it, and it is only discovered by accident when the ear may 
be examined for some other trouble, perhaps a long time afterward. In- 
sects not unfrequently get into the ears during the warm season, more espe- 
cially among those who pass considerable time in the woods or amidst shrub- 
bery, or are in the habit of sitting or lying on the grass. A living insect in 
the ear always causes a good deal of disturbance. The efforts which it 
makes to extricate itself, often accompanied by a buzzing or fluttering noise, 
create a most distressing and almost unbearable sound in the affected organ. 
The feet or claws of most insects are sharp, and if they come in contact with 
the drum-head, are liable to scratch and wound this membrane, causing the 
most intense pain. 

The attempts made to remove a foreign body from the ear have often 
caused more damage by far than could ever result from the presence of the 
offending substance itself. Instances are not wanting in which the effort at 
removal has resulted in pushing the body deeper into the canal, so as to 
wound and even pierce the drum-head. If the operation is successful as far 
as the removal is concerned, it is often attended with serious inflammation 
of the canal or drum. Cases are recorded in which death has been caused 
by diseases which were induced from the efforts made in the extraction of a 
foreign body. Removing a smooth or rounded object from the ear is not 
an easy matter and often taxes the patience and ingenuity of the most skill- 
ful hands. 



dUo COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — If the body is small and not wedged tightly in the 
canal, hold the head with the ear downward, or, better still, lie down with 
the head projecting over the edge of the couch ; then have it struck lightly 
several times; the jar attending this procedure may be sufficient to dislodge 
the object so that it will drop out. If this accomplishes nothing, the ear 
can be carefully syringed, though even the use of water is to be applied with 
caution, since moisture causes a certain class of foreign bodies, such as seeds, 
to swell and thus to complicate the case. 

As very few people know how to properly syringe the ear, a few in- 
structions concerning this apparently simple operation will not be amiss. 
The instrument used should be constructed of hard rubber; the piston should 
fit the bowl or cylinder closely, so as not to draw any air; the nozzle is to be 
conical in shape, with a slightly projecting tip. The ordinary glass instru- 
ments sold as ear-syringes are entirely useless for the purpose intended. 
While syringing, a small bowl or cup should be held close to the head under 
the ear to catch the water. The auricle is to be taken between the fingers 
of the left hand and pulled in a direction upward and backward, thereby 
straightening the passage of the auditory canal. The syringe should be 
worked with the right hand, and the water used should always be warmed. 
Never, under any circumstances, should a liquid be put in the ear without 
Jirst being ivarmed. By the use of the syringe and warm water a foreign 
body may often be dislodged and brought away from the ear; the water gets 
behind the object, strikes the drum-head, and in returning tends to wash 
everything out. When a living insect finds its way into the ear, the 
patient should lie down, and have the canal filled with warm water, or a 
whiff of tobacco-smoke can be blown into it; the intruder is drowned or 
stupefied, and so rendered incapable of causing pain or disturbance by its 
fluttering motions. 

Do not permit the introduction of probes, forceps or any instrument 
whatever into the ear, or any groping blind-ly in the dark for a foreign body 
that cannot be seen. Remember that, as a rule, a foreign body in the ear 
will do no harm if let alone. Certainly no one but the physician would be 
justified in resorting to any other measures than those just referred to. 
These are the words of Hinton, an English surgeon, which he has uttered 
to the profession: "Whenever an instrument will succeed, syringing will 
also succeed; and when proper syringing will not succeed, all instruments 
are full of danger." 

DISORDERS OF THE MIDDLE EAR. 

The disorders peculiar to this part of the ear constitute by far the most 
important class. It has been stated that fully five-sixths of the cases that 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 309 

come under the notice of the aurist originate in the mucous lining of the 
throat, the nose and the middle ear. The treatment in these affections is 
attended with greater difficulties than is the case with those of the external 
ear, and the diseases are more likely to result in deafness. If, then, the 
middle ear is so often the seat of an impairment of the hearing, it may be 
well to inquire why this is so, and to enumerate briefly some of the condi- 
tions that give rise to these troubles. 

Children'' s Diseases. — Many of the diseases incident to childhood,.par- 
ticularly those characterized by an eruption, leave trouble in the ear which 
results in impaired hearing or deafness. Scarlet fever takes the first place 
in the ranks of these scourges; but measles, diphtheria, cerebro-spinal 
meningitis, and whooping-cough may be the origin of serious disorders. 

Cold in the Head. — A cold in the head may arise from an exposure to 
a cold draught of air which strikes the head or neck when insufficiently pro- 
tected; from getting the feet wet; and particularly from sitting with wet 
or damp clothes for a considerable time in a cool place, as in a church or 
lecture-room. These exposures may give rise to other and more serious 
troubles than a cold in the head. If the nasal passages are affected, the 
ears are very likely to be involved, and the Eustachian tube may remain 
closed from a swelling of its mucous lining, or the catarrhal inflamma- 
tion may extend up this tube to the drum-cavity; in either of which 
cases the result will be an impairment of the hearing. 

Irritation fro?n the Teeth. — The existence of earache, with a dis- 
charge of pus from the ear, during the cutting of the teeth in infants is a 
thing well known to those having the care and management of young chil- 
dren. In some cases, the ears are troublesome during the eruption of every 
one of the temporary teeth. The prevailing idea that the early decay and 
loss of the temporary teeth are of little consequence is a mistaken one, a 
statement which will be corroborated by every intelligent and educated 
dentist. The preservation of the first teeth until the period of second den- 
tition arrives is quite essential to the growth and development of the alve- 
olar processes. The regularity and soundness of the permanent teeth de- 
pend much on the treatment of the temporary set. The wisdom-teeth 
generally make their appearance about the eighteenth or twentieth year, 
though this period may be delayed on account of the crowded condition and 
small size of the jaws. In some cases, the wisdom teeth require years for 
their complete eruption, every few months setting up a fresh attack of pain 
and irritation as they endeavor to press their way through. During these 
attacks pain in the ear is a common symptom. The affections of the ear 
that arise from dental irritation are mostly located in the middle ear, and 
are generally attended with impairment of the hearing. 



310 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

The drum-cavity is sometimes the seat of neuralgia, the pain being the 
most intense and agonizing in its nature, though there are no other symp- 
toms peculiar to inflammation, and no deafness. The pain also intermits, 
is sudden in its onset, and disappears just as quickly, only to return with- 
out the least warning. These cases are almost invariably due to a carious 
tooth. In case of obstinate and persistent pain in the ear, unaccompanied 
by any other symptoms, the teeth should always be examined by a compe- 
tent person. The tooth may not always be tender to the touch, and an im- 
properly filled cavity may give rise to some trouble. 

Chronic Nasal Catarrh. — As it has been noted that a cold in the 
head is prejudicial to the sense of hearing and a fruitful source of diseased 
ears, chronic nasal catarrh, or, more properly speaking, chronic naso- 
pharyngeal catarrh, which is really an ever-present and aggravated form of 
cold, can hardly play a less important part in the production of changes in 
the organ of hearing which lead to an impairment of its function. The re- 
lation between the throat and the middle ear is so intimate that disease is 
scarcely ever met with in the drum-cavity without similar changes existing 
in the mucous membrane of the nose and throat. Any one at all conversant 
with the subject knows how often naso-pharyngeal catarrh produces ear- 
trouble, and one of our English writers speaks of aural catarrh as the com- 
monest cause of deafness. 

The Nasal Douche. — This is an instrument frequently used in the 
treatment of catarrh of the nose and throat; its use is often advised indis- 
criminately in all cases and without any special directions. Too frequently 
it has happened that this instrument, even when used with all the precau- 
tions that should be attached to it, has given rise to painful and acute in- 
flammation in the drurn-cavity, because the water or other liquid which is 
running through the nostrils forces its way through the Eustachian tube into 
the drum. 

Bathing. — In diving or swimming under water, the ears become filled 
and then are generally the seat of unpleasant sensations and of possible in- 
jury; especially is this so if the water is cold. The delicate drum-mem- 
brane becomes inflamed, though the trouble does not often stop there but 
extends to the drum-cavity. In surf-bathing, the waves sometimes strike 
the head with great force, thus sending the water into the auditory canal 
and against the drum-head with sufficient violence to rupture it. In diving, 
the nose also is very liable to be filled with water, which, in the sneezing 
and blowing efforts that follow in its expulsion, may be forced into the 
drum through the Eustachian tube. Those who are afflicted with a disease 
of the ear, with any tendency to deafness, should indulge in bathing with 
considerable caution; the ears should always be protected by stopping them 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 811 

with small bits of wool, diving being abjured and the head being kept as 
dry as possible. Such people should also refrain from having the hair cut 
too short or very often, nor should they accustom themselves to wetting the 
hair before combing it. 

Such are some of the common causes of diseases of the middle ear. In 
treating the disorders peculiar to this locality, the attention will be called to 
those difficulties that are attended with an external discharge, and those not 
so marked. In both classes are recognized the acute and chronic stages. 

SUPPURATIVE DISEASES OF THE MIDDLE EAR. 

In an acute attack of inflammation of the drum-cavity, the first symptom 
usually complained of is pain, though in exceptional cases the first thing that 
the patient has noticed is a moisture in the canal from the flowing out of 
the pus, or a stain on the pillow from the same cause. Generally the pain 
in the ear and corresponding side of head is most intense, and is more deep- 
ly seated than when the inflammation is confined to the canal; nor is this pas- 
sage or the auricle as tender to the touch. Deafness and singing or ringing 
sounds in the ear are nearly always present. If the pain lasts for any great 
length of time, there will be some constitutional disturbances, as fever, coated 
tongue, and loss of appetite. In young persons, there may be delirium, and 
the severity of the symptoms have often been attributed to inflammatory 
processes in the brain. There is probably no pain to which the human sys- 
tem is liable that is more severe than that due to the distension of the drum- 
cavity by mucus or pus. Marked changes are exhibited in the appearance 
of the drum-head, but such symptoms can be noted only by an examination 
of the ear with the proper instruments. The course of this disease is often 
violent until perforation of the drum-head occurs, which is sometimes accom- 
panied with quite a loud noise and with relief from the pain. The rupture 
of the membrane is followed by a flow of pus, which at first may be slightly 
tinged with blood but soon becomes thick and yellow. If no measures are 
taken to cleanse the ear of this discharge and to prevent its further formation, 
the deafness will continue and the case will pass into a chronic suppuration 
of the middle ear, with a liability to all the evils that are so often entailed 
by this disease. 

Treatment. — The treatment in the painful stage is similar to that 
which was suggested for subduing the pain when a boil forms in the canal. 
The ear should be syringed as often as every half-hour with warm or hot 
water, whichever feels best to the patient, generally the warmer the water 
the quicker the relief. Between the times of syringing, the canal may be 
filled with water into which a few drops of laudanum have been poured, to 



312 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

be kept in by a bit of cotton. A pillow can then be heated and laid against 
the side of the face. Do not resort to poultices of any kind. In cold 
weather, the patient should stay in the house, and perhaps would be better 
in bed. Hot foot-baths are advised by some, though their expediency is 
somewhat questionable. 

Aconite or gelseminum, given internally, may bring some relief; put 
five drops of the tincture of either of these remedies in about twenty tea- 
spoonfuls of water, and take one teaspoonful every hour. These same 
medicines prepared a little stronger may be dropped into the ear. 

If the pain continues after a trial of what has been recommended, the 
drum-head should be artificially punctured with a knife. This operation of 
course will necessitate resorting to professional skill. It is easily and quickly 
done, is not accompanied with any great amount of pain, and is devoid of 
danger. The relief from the pain is generally immediate, and the prospect of 
freedom from suffering should overbalance the fear of any momentary pain 
which would be caused by the knife. Another advantage gained by this 
artificial opening is the greater readiness in healing. The drum-head is 
almost sure to break of its own accord, if it is not punctured, and the open- 
ing is often large and irregular; in exceptional cases and after unusual pro- 
longation of the suffering, the whole membrane has been swept away at the 
time of its bursting. 

After suppuration has been established, the ear should be syringed care- 
fully twice a day with warm water. Greater care should be taken in the 
use of the syringe here than in cases of impacted wax or foreign bodies in 
the canal, for now the drum-head is not entire and the water can enter the 
drum-cavity; hence, if the syringe is used too forcibly, or the water is not 
sufficiently warmed, dizziness, nausea, and even fainting may be induced. 
After the ear has been thoroughly cleansed, a weak preparation of carbolic 
acid, five drops to an ounce of water, can be dropped into it; or one of sul- 
phate of zinc, two grains to an ounce of water. The remedies are to be 
used for checking the formation of pus; they should always be warmed be- 
fore using, and about five drops of the dilution may be put into the ear. 

In some rare cases, the inflammation does not cause a rupture of the 
drum-head, but becomes gradually absorbed after the acute symptoms sub- 
side. The worst issue is an extension of the disease to the brain, occasion- 
ally setting up ulceration and decay of the bone, and thus penetrating the 
walls of the skull. 

Acute inflammation of the drum-cavity, if left unchecked, is liable to 
assume a chronic form. The discharge now becomes constant, though the 
quantity may vary somewhat; it may be thin and watery, or thick and creamy; 
its color is white, yellow or greenish; the odor is almost invariably offensive, 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 313 

sometimes unbearable. The discharge seems to be acrid and corrosive, caus- 
ing soreness and ulceration of the skin wherever it comes in contact with it. 
When such a condition as this exists, the drum-head is always perforated, 
and the continuance of the inflammation sometimes causes the loss of the 
ossicles; it can easily be understood that with these changes there must be 
a considerable loss of hearing. But the deafness that accompanies or results 
from a chronic suppuration of the middle ear is only one of the fearful conse- 
quences of this disease; life itself is not unfrequently jeopardized and in 
many cases has been lost. So true is this, that some English life-insurance 
companies, recognizing the magnitude of these dangers, refuse to take a risk 
on a person afflicted with a chronic discharge from the ear. Even if none 
of the serious consequences have occurred, the general health of the patient 
is nearly always impaired. It could hardly be otherwise, for such a contin- 
uous drain on the system as is occasioned by this constant flow from the ear 
is hardly compatible with perfect health. 

For a long time a prejudice has existed in very many minds against the 
stoppage of a purulent discharge from the ear. This is largely due to the 
encouragement it has received from some members of the medical profession. 
There would be no hesitation in stopping a discharge and healing a sore in 
other parts of the body; but people of intelligence and education will oppose 
or regard with suspicion the most rational suggestions that are made for 
checking- a discharge from the ear. 

As stated before, deafness is only one of the consequences of a chronic 
suppuration of the ear; the formation of polypi, or small tumors that spring 
from mucous surfaces, may also result from an unchecked or neglected dis- 
charge. These growths are of a bright-red color; their surface is uneven 
and nodulated, very much like a raspberry; they generally grow from a little 
stem or pedicle; they may become so extensive as to project from the audi- 
tory canal, when they always occasion great deafness. A frequent discharge 
of small quantities of blood from the ear, or the staining of the pus with 
blood, is nearly always significant of the presence of a polypus in the drum- 
cavity. 

The suppurative inflammation may extend from the drum back into the 
mastoid bone; sometimes a severe cold will cause such swelling of the 
mucous lining that the opening through the drum-head is closed and the 
discharge, prevented from escaping externally, forces its way back into the 
mastoid cells, and, setting up inflammation in these spongy cavities, gives 
rise to a very serious difficulty known as "mastoid disease." This is char- 
acterized by great pain behind the ear, which locality is also very tender to 
the touch. The skin covering the mastoid bone is red and often enormously 
swollen. The treatment of this disease is almost entirely of a surgical nat- 



314 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

lire, and consists in making an incision through these swollen and infiltrated 
tissues down to the bone. In some cases an opening must be drilled 
through the outer layers of the bone into the cells themselves, to liberate 
pus that may be confined there. Disease or even ulceration of the mastoid 
bone is not always attended with fatal results; but other parts of the tem- 
poral bone are liable to an invasion of the disease. The roof of the drum- 
cavity consists of a thin plate of bone, and directly above this, and in con- 
tact with it, are the investing membranes of the brain, and any extension of 
the purulent disorder in this direction would give rise to meningitis or 
abscess of the brain, diseases that always terminate fatally. 

Another serious complication is sometimes induced, known as blood-poi- 
soning, which is caused by an absorption of the pus into the blood, in which 
it is carried throughout the system. This is very dangerous, though not al- 
ways hopeless. 

There are still other troubles that arise from a chronic "running" from 
the ear, but enough has been said to show the serious consequences that 
may attend this disease, and to emphasize the necessity of employing means 
for stopping this flow of pus and for restoring the ear as far as possible to a 
healthy and normal condition, always remembering that in this affection 
it is not only hearing, but often life, that is jeopardized. In a large number 
of cases a cure can be established, but only by persistence in a skillful and 
careful treatment, such as could be carried out under the direct supervision 
of some one entirely conversant with the details and accustomed to handling 
these diseases. The ear should be kept clean by the use of the syringe and 
warm water, and some simple astringents like alum, zinc sulphate, or carbolic 
acid, in solution, can be used as directed on page 279; but, if this does not 
accomplish the desired result, professional aid should be sought. 

NON-SUPPURATIVE DISEASES OF THE MIDDLE EAR. 

These are quite as liable to lead to deafness as those of the suppurative 
variety, but the trouble stops there, the invasion not extending further than 
the ear. They may have a well-marked course, signalized by symptoms 
so conspicuous that they can not escape the notice of even the most ordi- 
nary observer. For example, a person is exposed to cold on a wet, cheer- 
less day, or becomes chilled from remaining too long in a swimming bath, 
or sleeps in the direct line of a strong draught of air, and the result is a sore 
throat or cold in the head. During this attack of cold he notices that the 
ears are not as they should be; the hearing is not quite as acute as before; 
he does not feel quite sure of what is said and asks to have the question 
that is addressed to him repeated. There may be some pain referred to the 



MAN— THE EYE AND EAR. 315 

bottom of the ear, though this is seldom as severe as in the suppurative 
cases, and is often entirely absent; there is a sensation of fullness, with a 
feeling as though the ear were stopped up; it seems almost as if one could 
reach something in the canal, whose removal would give entire relief; there 
are sounds in the ear like singing or the ringing of bells, and ofttimes a 
cracking or snapping is heard, especially when swallowing. The case re- 
mains in this state for a few days, when the cold gets better and most of 
the symptoms gradually disappear; the noises in the ear cease; the stuffy 
feeling is relieved; the hearing power seems to be restored, but if carefully 
tested is generally found to be slightly defective; in fact, the person has 
lost a small measure of his hearing. At this time the golden opportunity 
for curing the difficulty presents itself; the disease is not chronic, has not 
become fixed, nor has much change taken place in the middle ear. Each 
time the person takes cold or is exposed to the influence which gave rise to 
the trouble there is a repetition of the symptoms enumerated above, and 
a little more is added to the deafness. 

This form of deafness often arises without any special warning; that is, 
there is nothing like a cold or any particular cause to which it can be as- 
signed, the disorder creeping on in the most insidious manner and progress- 
ing to a considerable extent before the unfortunate patient is aware of its 
existence. This ignorance on the part of the person affected can be .under- 
stood from the fact that the disease often advances much more rapidly on 
one side than on the other, and that when one ear has a fair degree of its 
hearing power a considerable loss may be sustained in the other without 
any knowledge of this deficiency on the part of the patient. 

Not unfrequently a singing or ringing noise in the ear is the first inti- 
mation of any trouble, and an examination reveals the presence of the dis- 
ease on both sides, much to the astonishment of the interested party. Tinni- 
tus is the term applied to noises in the ear, and it often constitutes fully as 
distressing a sensation as the deafness, one from which the patient is as eager 
for relief. He thinks his hearing would be better if the noise could be 
stopped. These abnormal sensations are likened to a great many of the 
sounds occurring in nature, as the roaring of the sea, the rustling of autumn 
leaves, the buzzing of a mosquito, or the shrill chirp of a cricket; very often 
there is a pounding or hammering noise, which is in keeping with the ac- 
tion of the heart; sometimes the patient says he hears pleasant sounds like 
strains of music, though generally they are of a tiresome and distressing 
nature. Tinnitus is very apt to be worse when the person has a cold, or is 
suffering from bodily fatigue; he often thinks that the noise in his ear can 
be heard by others. This condition is one that can sometimes be quickly 
and easily relieved, but at other times it is very difficult to do much for it. 



316 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

This disease, often called catarrhal deafness, is one of the most 
obstinate and intractable of all ear-troubles. It is seated behind the drum- 
head, in the drum-cavity and Eustachian tube; hence, no treatment can be 
of any avail that is applied through the auditory canal. What local means 
are used must be addressed to the throat and pharyngeal orifice of the 
Eustachian tube, through whose mucous membrane the lining of the drum- 
cavity, continuous with it, can be reached. The internal administration 
of some remedies, such as kali hydriodicum, mercurius dulcis, hydrastia 
and calcarea carbonica is to be recommended. 

The attention should be called to a certain amount of care that a 
person afflicted with this disease can bestow on himself, also to some things 
the avoidance of which will tend to have a beneficial effect. Prominent 
among the influences that increase and aggravate this trouble is the expos- 
ure to and contraction of colds. No one can hope to enjoy entire immunity 
from colds, though they can in a great measuie be prevented by a little 
care and attention. One of the most important measures to this end is 
proper dressing when going out. In extreme cold weather, heavy under- 
clothing should be worn; and most people will do well to wear two suits 
of flannel, particularly if going on a journey. One who is afflicted with 
catarrhal deafness should not sleep without an undershirt, though it is well 
to have a different garment for night-wear, and the greatest care should be 
taken to have all flannels thoroughly aired before wearing. In cold 
weather, the feet must be thoroughly protected and be kept dry and warm 
by means of overshoes and rubbers; nothing affects the ears sooner and in 
a way more prejudicial to the hearing than getting the feet wet. In the 
summer, out-of-door bathing should not be indulged in very frequently, and 
diving is to be strictly avoided. The hair should not be wet for toilet pur- 
poses; nor should the scalp be washed very frequently, and when it is a 
little alcohol should be put in the water, care being taken that the hair is 
thoroughly dried. 

Tobacco and alcoholic beverages are to be used in moderation; better 
not at all. The same advice will also apply to indulgence in highly- 
seasoned articles of food. All these things have a stimulating actiun on the 
mucous membrane of the throat, and, through this, a pernicious effect on 
the hearing. In fact, everything should be done to regulate the general 
health in order to promote and maintain normal hearing. 

If attention is given to a cold at the start or during its early stage, it 
can often be checked bv some simple means available in every household. 
One of the best things is to remain in the house for a day or two, to stay 
in a warm room, to take hot foot-baths, and to partake of hot drinks freely, 
as lemonade. A few drops of tincture of aconite or spirits of camphor can 



MAN THE EYE AND EAR. 317 

be dropped into a glass half filled with water, and a teaspoonful of the 
dilution be taken every hoar. In some cases, quinine every hour, taken in 
doses of one or two grains, will have a good effect. These means will in 
many cases be sufficient to check or break a cold, thus averting many of the 
consequences it might have on the organ of hearing. 

ARTIFICIAL AIDS TO HEARING. 

A few words in regard to the use of instruments or artificial aids for 
the help of deaf people: It may be positively said that if the deafness Is 
owing to nervous trouble, that is, an affection of the auditory nerve, no 
instrument will be of any use. In advanced cases of catarrhal deafness, 
some of the many appliances in the line of ear-trumpets, conversation-tubes 
or the audiphone, may be of considerable assistance, particularly in holding 
conversation with any one near by. Too much must not be expected from 
artificial help; there is very seldom an instance in which it will secure to a 
person with very much impairment of the function the ability to hear gen- 
eral conversation or a lecture, or sound at a very great distance. The 
instrument has not been invented that does for the ear what the spectacle 
does for the eye. In the selection of an appliance for the help of a deaf 
ear, the person has to be guided by his own sensations; each case is an 
individual one, and the best plan is to visit some maker of instruments and 
procure the appliance with which he can hear best. There are a number 
of small instruments made to fit in the auditory canal and be out of sight. 
They are often manufactured from silver or gold and are quite expensive 
but for the purpose of improving the hearing are entirely worthless. 
Artificial drum-heads are used in some instances with the most marked 
benefit; the cases in which they are useful are those in which the natural 
membrane is either entirely absent or has a large perforation. In catarrhal 
deafness the membrane and all the mucous tissues are abnormally thickened^ 
and anything additional which is introduced into the auditory canal adds to 
the difficulty by acting as a foreign obstruction. 





CHAPTER XL 
EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 

IMPORTANT HINTS. 

UTS, bites, blows, sprains, burns, stings, poisoning, bleeding, fainting, 
choking, drowning, suffocation, fractures, dislocations, and other 
misfortunes come within the daily observation of almost everybody, 
^ v but there is a deplorable lack of intelligence in meeting them, 
often in treating even the simplest and most common. Their frequency 
ought to convince every one that it is his duty to give to them some special 
study, particularly to the more urgent. 

An eminent German surgeon has said that he has very often lamented 
the fact that so few people know how to render the first aid to those who 
have met with sudden injuries, and further remarks that many die miser- 
able deaths every year who might have been saved by prompt service if 
those near them knew how to give it. Though the gravity of the subject 
demands for it special study and attention, it is far from the aim to dispense 
with the services of the physician by the use of the present work. On the 
other hand, the same urgency which calls for a universal knowledge of 
these matters should show the reader that immediate professional aid is 
imperative in many cases. It is hoped that one may here learn how to 
preserve presence of mind and give the right kind of help until the physi- 
cian arrives. 

i. Be Ready for Accidents. — An emergency leaves little time to read 
directions for giving aid. By studying a few mi?zutes now you can secure 
a preparation which will give you confidence and efficiency in many acci- 
dents of common occurrence. Read over this part of the book, especially 
what is said on Bleeding, Wounds, Bites, Fainting, Choking, Drowning, 
Suffocation, Poisons and Antidotes. One should read such directions 
repeatedly, that he may gain the greater familiarity. He will thus be 
more fully armed for emergencies. 

2. Be Calm. — If a case is urgent it certainly demands coolness. More 
good can be done in one minute with presence of mind than in ten without it. 

318 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



319 



Self-control in crises will be insured in great measure by an observance or 
the hint above on being ready for accidents. 

BLEEDING: HOW STOPPED. 



"It is a terrible position," says Professor Esmarch, the surgeon alluded 
to above, "to stand in view of some accident, to see the red blood pouring 
unceasingly from the wound, to see death every moment approaching nearer 
and nearer, and not know how to avert the threatened calamity." To 
gain a knowledge of this important subject the reader should first review 
the brief introduction on the circulation, Chapter V, noting especially "Cir- 
culation Described" and "The Pulse." He will there learn the general dis- 
tribution of the veins and arteries, the serious nature of arterial or spurting 
hemorrhage, and see that a pulse-beat, wheresoever found, shows the pres- 
ence of an artery. 

When small arteries or veins are cut or broken, the bleeding will gen- 
erally soon stop of its own accord by 
clotting. It is always well to aid this 
process by exposing the wound to the 
air. Further assistance may be given 
by applying cold water or cloths of 
pounded ice; and this expedient, since 
it contracts the blood-vessels and thus 
impedes circulation, is often alone suffi- 
cient. The pernicious practice of re- 
moving cloths when saturated with 
blood and then putting on others, or 
putting cloths on those already saturated, 
only makes the case worse. 

Stoppage in even severe cases may 
be effected by simply pressing the lips 
of the wound together, and thus closing the severed vessel until the 
clot forms. The circulation is thus restored just as one may bring the ends 
of a severed rubber tube together in the fingers so that a liquid may pass 
through, with little or no leaking so long as the ends are kept together. 
This method will be sufficient in the great majority of slight cuts on the 
hands and other parts of the skin. For some of the simplest wounds, as 
those on the face from the razor in shaving, carefully wipe off the blood and 
thrust down into the opening the point of a sharpened piece of alum. This 
will stop the blood if repeated until the severed vessel has been touched. 
A tight girdle, garter, or other band will aggravate bleeding from a 




57. Stoppage by Light Pressure. 



320 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



vein, if it is on the side of the wound next to the heart 



All such should he 
removed at once when they obstruct the passage toward the heart. 

In serious bleeding, whether from an artery or vein, the above direc- 
tions are not applicable, and pressure is needed. 

Simple Experinients. — By proper searching and pressure with the fin- 
gers we detect pulse-beats, and thus learn of the existence of arteries, in the 
following locations: — i. On the wrist and forearm, back of the base of the 
thumb, between the shoulder and elbow, down between the two large mus- 




Artery in the Arm and Shoulder. 



59. Artery in the Leg. 



cles; and in the armpit. These points are all in the artery that supplies the 
arm and hand. 2. In the middle of the groin; down the middle of the in- 
side of the thigh; and on the inside of the ankle. These are points in the 
artery that supplies the leg and foot. 3. In the neck on either side of the 
windpipe; and on the temple. These are in arteries which supply the neck 
and head. 4. Just above the collar-bone, where the artery passes down be- 
hind that bone to supply the shoulder and armpit; this artery is continued 
by the one that goes down into the arm. It will be readily seen that 1 and 
2 traverse the parts which are specially liable to injury in ordinary cuts. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 321 

Let one place a finger on the pulse at the wrist, and let another find 
the same artery further up toward the elbow and gradually increase the 
pressure. The pulse at the wrist will wholly disappear when the pressure 
above is sufficient, showing that blood does not pass the point where it is 
applied, and that a wound in the artery below that point would bleed little 
if any, so long as the pressure is continued 

Referring next to the various accompanying illustrations, perform simi- 
lar experiments repeatedly on the other arteries until it has been thoroughly 
learned where and with how great pressure one should apply pressure 
when bleeding takes place in any part of the body. 

Bandage, or Tourniquet, — When the required pressure is extraordi- 
nary, or must be long continued in waiting for a surgeon, make a bandage 
with a folded handkerchief, a cravat, suspender, or other strong material, 
with a sharp knot to fit on the point of pressure, and tie it loosely around 
the injured part. Slip a cane or other stick under the bandage and turn it 
around, being sure the knot rests on the artery, and so continue until the 
pressure stops the flow of blood. If the knot slips from its place and 
allows the flow to commence again, readjust it. As a substitute for the 
knot, one may put a marble or other hard body in the bandage. It is best 
to continue the pressure of the hand close to the wound, while an assistant 
puts on the bandage or tourniquet next to the hand. Some positions of 
these bandages and methods of their application are shown in the accom- 
panying cuts. 

Where to Apply Pressure. — If it is desired to stop the flow of blood 
from a vein, the pressure must obviously be applied below the wound, that 
is, on the side more remote from the heart; since the blood is flowing to- 
ward the heart. In an artery, on the other hand, since the blood is passing 
away from the heart, apply the pressure on the side next to the heart. If 
the bleeding continues after using one bandage, do not remove it if it is 
properly adjusted, but put on another further from the wound. 

Persistent Bleeding. — If the flow is copious after the appropriate use 
of the above expedients, assistance can be rendered by thrusting the finger 
down into the wound, or by firmly binding cloths over it, clea7i ones if they 
can be secured. Such means may also be resorted to when the wound is in 
a part of the body where tight bandages cannot be applied, on the neck for 
example. Even in less urgent instances, these ruder methods can be adopted 
by those who have never studied any special directions for the stoppage of 
blood; or at any time when the course of the severed artery is not known. 

Spider's Web, etc. — A good point is briefly made as follows by Pro- 
fessor Esmarch: "Above all things, I must earnestly warn you against 
using those remedies for stopping hemorrhage which are so often stuffed 

21 



322 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



into bleeding wounds, both those got from the chemist, such as perchloride 
of iron, yellow charpies, etc., and more popular remedies, such as spider's 
web. It is possible by such means to arrest trifling hemorrhages, but prop- 
erly applied pressure attains this end much better. * * * * You find 
these styptics in some of the small packets used in giving 'first aid', but from 
their presence you may know that such packets have been put together by 
inexperienced persons." 

Elevate the Wound. — As an experiment, stand a moment with one 
arm lifted above the shoulder, the other being left to hang loosely at the 
side. Then quickly compare the palms and you will see that the one 
which has been held up has less blood in it, as indicated by the absence of 
the redness so noticeable in the other. Thus we should, when stopping 
severe hemorrhage, keep the wound elevated so that the force of gravity 
may oppose circulation and thus materially lessen the pressure required to 
check the flow. If the wound be in the hand or arm, keep it up as high as 
a sling can conveniently hold it. If in the foot or leg, the patient should lie 
down and the limb be held up. If in the head or neck, he should re- 
main standing or sitting. In general, keep the patient and affected member 
in such a position as will, in point of gravity, be least favorable to a flow of 
blood toward the wound, and avoid exciting him. 

SPECIAL DIRECTIONS. 



Bleeding in the Hand or Foot.-— To check arterial bleeding in a fin- 
ger, firmly apply pressure on each side, close to the hand, as shown in fig- 
ure 60; a like pressure should be applied 
near the foot for a wound in a toe. If the 
wound be in the hand above the fingers, 
apply pressure at the point indicated in 
figure 61, thus cutting off circulation in the 
hand. For a wound in the foot, put the 
pressure on the inside of the ankle. 

Bleeding in the Arm or Leg. — For a 
wound above the wrist, or one above the 
ankle, apply pressure as shown in figures 62 
and 63. For injuries in the upper part of 
the arm, pressure ma}- be secured by placing 
a thick stick between the arm and chest, and 
binding the arm tightly to the body, as illus- 
trated in figure 64. 

Bleeding at the Armpit. — If bleeding occurs in the armpit, or in the 




Pressure on the Finger- 




6i. Pressure on the "Wrist. 




62. Pressure on the Upper Arm. 





64. Pressure Under 
the Arm. 




63. Pressure on the Thigh. 



65. Pressure on the 
Neck. 



323 



3*34 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

arm above the points of pressure heretofore indicated, search out with the 
fingers the artery which passes down behind the collar-bone, and apply 
pressure with the thumb, or with any other body sufficiently covered to pre- 
vent tearing of the flesh, as shown in figure 58. 

Bleeding in the Head or Neck. — Bleeding on the head is likely to be 
very profuse, owing to the great supply of blood-vessels. Undue alarm, 
therefore, should not be felt because of a free flow from a wound on the 
skull. The hard cranium near the surface makes it easy for one to close 
the severed vessel by pressure with the fingers. Bleeding in the neck, and 
in the head above, may he stopped or retarded by pressure on one side of 
the throat, or both, at the point indicated in figure 6y Such measures will 
be needed in attempted suicide bv cutting the throat. 

Bleeding at the Xose. — This is sometimes beneficial, especially after 
extreme heat of the body or a sense of fullness in the head. It may be 
allowed to continue until it clots of its own accord, if that is not too long. 
When it results from a blow, and when it is desired to stop it, keep the head 
erect, never bent down, snuff cold water and hamamelis, putting one part 
of the latter into two of the water; then apply cold water or pounded 
ice to the bridge of the nose, on the upper lip and the back of the neck. 
The above lotion may be thrown into the nose with a syringe. A strong 
solution of alum may be used if the other is not successful. Such hemor- 
rhage is seldom so protracted as to be serious; but, if it continues in spite 
of attempts to check it, medical aid is needed. The formation of a clot is 
favored by any means that will prevent the escape of blood from the nostril, 
such as the plugging of the nose with cotton or soft linen. Such resorts, 
however, may cause the blood to escape into the throat, mouth and stomach. 
Blowing the nose removes the clots and thus favors the bleeding. If the 
disorder is caused by some serious internal injury, the escape of blood may 
be checked until the arrival of a surgeon by pressing against the nose. 

Bleeding from a Tooth. — After the extraction of a tooth bleeding 
is occasionally serious. In such a case, apply hot or very cold water to the 
cavity. It may be necessary to plug it tightly with lint soaked in hamamelis 
secured by a pointed piece of cork well pressed into the cavity. A few 
drops of creosote dropped into the cavity will also be a good remedy. 

Bleeding from the Month and Liuigs. — Blood may escape into the 
mouth from the nose, as observed above, if the head is held erect or back 
when the nose is bleeding, or if the nostrils are plugged up. It is then often 
dark, as from a clot. It may be fresh and thin, coming from the throat, or 
bright and frothv and be from the lungs. In the last-named instance, it is 
more serious. In either case, it is well to eat salt, or inhale the vapor of alum 
from an inhaler or the spout of a tea-pot; or swallow small bits of ice. A 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 325 

combination of these expedients may be adopted. Keep the head and shoulders 
well elevated, put cold applications on the chest, and preserve perfect 
quiet. See also "Spitting Blood " and "Vomiting of Blood," by reference 
to the index. 

Undue Alarm. — Blood makes a great show, and the sight of it often 
causes undue trepidation. Almost invariably the amount of blood lost by a 
wound, except in the powerful spurting from the large arteries, is much less 
than is supposed. Hence, in stopping blood, keep calm enough to deter- 
mine the course of the wounded vessel, doing the work as expeditiously as 
is consistent with exactness. You may not completely stop the flow, and 
yet you may so retard it until a surgeon arrives that the patient shall owe 
his life to your presence of mind. Excitement in an attendant will frighten 
the patient, and thereby stimulate the circulation. This will hasten the flow 
of blood besides increasing the chances of fainting. 

WOUNDS: HEALING AND DRESSING. 

HEALING. 

A brief notice of the two ways in which wounds heal will show the 
importance of proper dressing. It will also explain how even some who 
have dressed many wounds have made as many mistakes, which have 
resulted in unnecessary soreness and unsightly scars. It should be observed 
that in all cases of wounds, however slight, scars are liable to be left for a 
life-time. It is inexcusable to neglect an injury because there are chances 
of healing without leaving a positive disfigurement of the skin. Small 
scars as well as large ones should be avoided, as they can be in many instances. 

Two Methods of Healing-. — First, a wound may heal quickly and 
without the formation of matter, leaving only a very fine scar. This result 
should always be aimed at, and can be secured only when the flesh has not 
been badly bruised or torn; when the skin around the edges is exactly 
brought together in dressing and not opened by the formation of matter or 
otherwise until the healing is completed; and when the injured part is kept 
quiet and completely protected against impurities and mechanical injuries. 
Second, the healing may be slow, with formation of matter, and leaving a 
large scar. Such an issue arises when the skin is not exactly brought to- 
gether in dressing; when the surrounding tissues have been so torn or bruised 
that they decompose and slough off; when the edges, once properly brought 
together, are afterward separated by bleeding or the formation of matter; 
when putrefaction and formation of matter are induced by lack of clean- 
liness and of disinfection in the first dressing or in subsequent care; when 
the injured member has been disturbed by exercise during the healing. 



326 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Lvmfih and Pns {Matter}. — We should carefully distinguish be- 
tween two kinds of fluids which escape from healing 1 wounds: I. Lymph 
is clear and transparent, and comes to the surface in but small quantities in 
favorable instances, especially in the first of the above methods of healing. 
It is the natural medium through which the parts are united, and is neces- 
sary in healing. 2. Pus, or "matter," results from a decomposition of any 
surplus of healthy lymph which may accumulate. If the tissue has been 
bruised, or is broken down in inflammation, this decomposed material we 
call by the same name, and the formation of pus, or matter, is known as 
suppuration. Pus may be yellowish, greenish, blood-stained or other 
color. Except in the most favorable instances, it makes its appearance 
even under a physician's care. Since it opens the sides of the wound, and 
inflames or decomposes the tissues, it interrupts healing. If neglected, sup- 
puration may lead to blood-poisoning, erysipelas, gangrene or other fatal 
consequences. Not only should pus and decomposed matter be studiously 
removed when present, but it should be known that, in addition to the causes 
mentioned above, their formation is induced or favored by the presence in the 
wound of splinters, pieces of cloth, bone, dust or other forms of uncleanness, 
by contact of the air after dressing, by bleeding when the wound has once been 
closed, or by disturbance of the affected part by exercise after being dressed* 

Granulations and '-'•Proud Flesh." — When a suppurating wound or 
ulcer begins to heal, reddish, grain-like shoots known as "granulations" 
appear on its surface, gradually fill up the opening, and finally disappear 
under the scar. If these rise up and form a red, raw, elevated mass above 
the edges of the sore, they are then called " proud flesh." Though gran- 
ulation is nature's way of healing a wound, some inexperienced people 
suppose it defeats that end and take measures to stop it. Only when it has 
taken the form of proud flesh should it be disturbed. It should then be re- 
pressed by passing adhesive straps over it and binding it down. By this 
means excessive granulations on large surfaces may be checked, and the 
sides of the sore be brought together. If the proud flesh has increased until 
it forms a long, protruding fungus, it must be cut off, or be removed with 
some caustic, such as blue vitriol or burnt alum. 

DRESSING. 

The better the dressing and subsequent care the smaller will be the 
scar. Special directions on dressing cuts, bruises, and the like, are given be- 
low in their respective places. Three general rules are here given. 

i. Check the Bleeding. — Stop the hemorrhage in one of the ways 
shown above. Meanwhile, if the flow is profuse, and particularly if it 
comes from an artery, summon a physician. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



32 r 



2. Prevent Suppuration. — If it is clear that the case may be treated 
without a physician, re7nove and keep out all Impurities. Neglect of this 
precaution has led to suppuration and even death from slight injuries. No 
wound is so slight that it may be neglected. With the greatest pains remove 
all foreign substances and wash the wound in clean water, applied with a 
syringe or a piece of clean, soft linen, being sure that no lint and threads are 
left in the wound. It is well to mix some disinfectant with the water, such 
as carbolic, boracic or salicylic acid, or chloride of zinc. Even when waiting 
for a physician, it is best to keep over the wound a clean cloth s'oaked in 
such a solution. These disinfectants destroy the germs which may exist 
anywhere in the air, and which are supposed to produce decomposition 
and suppuration. 

3. Guard against Poisoning". — Poisons of malignant kinds may enter 
the system through any wound, however slight the break in the skin. Such 
a result may be produced by contact of the injured part with mineral and 
vegetable poisons, with ulcers on men and beasts suffering from contagious 
diseases, with diseased and decaying animal matter, and with poisoned 
wounds in general. The best preventive, next to absolute absence of con- 
tact, is the washing of the hands or other parts exposed to contamination 
in a lotion of carbolic acid, or in strong alcohol. 

CUTS. 



Dressing-. — When a wound is clean-cut, stop the blood, remove all 

foreign substances, neatly draw the edges 
together, and secure them thus with a 
bandage and pressure. This will be 
sufficient in nearly all the small cuts, as 
those inflicted with a penknife. If the 
bandage will not keep them accurately 
in place, an essential point, use plas- 
ters, but never completely cover a wound 
with them. Use narrow strips and as 
few as will preserve a perfect union, be- 
cause suppuration will almost surely en- 
sue if blood is confined in a cut by plas- 
ters. The adhesive plaster is the best, as 
it does not fall off when wet. Isinglass 
or court-plaster, or any sticking tab or 
stamp, if not poison or dirty, may be used, 
Dressing with Plaster. though none of these will be serviceable 




328 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

with a wet dressing. In applying an adhesive plaster, cut a strip long 
enough to extend on each side of the cut far enough to maintain a good hold, 
warm (not wet) it, stick one end to the flesh, draw the sides precisely to- 
gether, and then lay the other end smoothly down, at right angles across the 
wound if possible. Other kinds are similarly used, but are to be wet in- 
stead of warmed. If it is found, after smoothing a plaster down, that the 
edges are not in perfect conjunction, remove it and try again. 

The adhesive-plaster dressing is one of the best known for clean cuts, 
especially 'those on the face and scalp; but it is imperative that the strip be 
applied evenly and with sufficient pressure to keep the lips of the wound 
precisely together. The plasters must be of a good quality and frequently 
changed in subsequent dressing; but in changing them one or two strips 
are to be removed at a time, the parts which they have covered being 
cleaned and new strips being put over them before others are removed. 
The aim of this careful change being to prevent the granular attachments 
of the edges from being drawn apart, each strip is to be gradually removed 
by gently lifting the ends, alternately a little at a time, toward the wound. 

It is the height of folly to cut off pieces of flesh that hang as flaps. 
They should be cleaned, carefully restored to their natural position, and 
be thus secured. From the proximity of the skull to the surface, cuts on 
the head very often produce such flaps. Even if a piece of flesh has been 
entirely cut away, it may sometimes be restored by quickly cleaning it and 
binding it back precisely in its place. Such an end should always be aimed 
at, never neglected. Again, when a flap is formed or a wound gapes, none 
but a surgeon should use stitches, and he rarely, for they induce suppura- 
tion and may cause erysipelas or other serious disorders. 

After the closing of the wound, put on two or more thicknesses of soft 
cloth (preferably a layer of absorbent cotton or lint), securing them with 
bands, or, still better, with pieces of plaster reaching from the cloth to the 
surrounding skin. Keep the cloth continually wet with cold water. If the 
injured part becomes cold, the water may be discontinued for a short time. 
If the pain is severe, use tincture of calendula, one part to four of water, in- 
stead of the pure water. This dressing is sufficient, and is better than lini- 
ments, salves, and the like, which are almost sure upon getting into a wound 
to produce suppuration, as other foreign material will. It may be necessary 
in addition to keep the injured part elevated in a sling. It is very desirable 
to exclude the air by keeping oil-silk over the whole dressing. 

Subsequent Care. — Once in about twenty-four hours, oftener in warm 
weather or when there is much suppuration, the wound should be dressed. 
Soak the cloths in warm water and gently remove them. If the wound is 
neatly closed and no dirt or pus has collected upon it, put the cloths on and 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



329 



keep them wet as before. If blood or pus is found, remove it with a soft 
brush or sponge, carefully avoiding disturbance of the wound or straps. 
Should a strap be loose, remove it very gently, one end slowly at a time, 
keeping it soaked in warm water; if it adheres very closely at any point and 
further removal threatens to open the cut, clip it off and leave the remnant 




Bandaged Hand and Wrist. 



First Turn in Bandaging the Ankle. 



to come off at a later dressing; with soap and water sponge off the sticky 
residue left by the plaster, and apply a fresh strip. In all the dressings after 
the first, use only as much water as is necessary in removing the coverings 
and sponging off blood and matter (not lymph), without freely washing 





69. Last Turn in Bandaging the Foot and Ankle. 70. Bandage for the Head. 

the wotmd. Greasing the surface will aid in removing stickv residue of 
the plaster. 

Arnica and aconite, in alternation, may be given for some hours if there 
are fever and throbbing of the parts. For much pain and swelling, with 
headache, give belladonna in alternation with aconite. Hepar is needed 



330 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



after suppuration has set in, and silicea if the pus is unhealthy. If there are 
much heat, swelling, and pain, a bread-and-milk poultice may be used until 
relief is given, the above remedies meanwhile being administered as indi- 
cated. If poison has accidentally entered the system through the wound, 
from contact with diseased and decomposing animal matter, or from an ulcer 
on man or beast, give arsenicum. If lock-jaw ensues, follow the directions 
given in this book for that disorder. 

In the dressing of w T ounds, as well as sprains and the like, the nurse is 
often at a loss to know how to apply bandages so as to make them remain 
in place and maintain pressure. It is manifestly impossible to here give 
directions for all cases, but the reader will gain from figures 67 to 70 valu- 
able hints as a guide in the use of the most common ones. 

BRUISES AND LACERATIONS. 

In a bruise, some tissues are crushed, either with or without breaking 
of the flesh, as when any part is mashed or crushed. A laceration is a tear- 
ing of the flesh, and is generally attended with more or less bruising. 
Whether in a bruise with torn skin or in a laceration, the edges are more 
ragged than in a cut, and the bleeding is not so free. Owing to these two 
conditions, careful removal of all foreign substances . and clotted blood and 
studious cleanliness in the whole treatment are specially imperative, for sup- 
puration is almost certain to take place, sometimes deep down in the wound. 
Whereas a clean cut will probably heal readily, a bruise or laceration will 
heal more slowly and with more pain because the flesh is crushed. Hence 
greater care is needed. 

In bruises without breaking through the skin, it is of the first impor- 
tance to prevent the blood from u settling." For this purpose, im?nediately 
after the injury has been done apply cloths soaked in water as hot as it can 
be borne, and changed every few minutes from one hour to three according 
to the severity of the case. The same end may be met, wholly or in part 
by holding up the injured member, as the finger for example, and rubbing 
it back toward the body, when the location will permit. This kind of bruise 
should afterward be dressed as cuts, in the main. In place of calendula, use 
a lotion of arnica, one part of strong tincture in ten of water. If the patient 
is predisposed to erysipelas, use a lotion of equal parts of hamamelis and 
water, or Pond's Extract. These lotions should be applied by soaking lint 
or cotton in them and covering the whole with oil-silk to exclude the air. 
Aside from these special notes, treat lacerations and bruises substantially as 
noted above for Cuts, observing the same indications for the internal 
remedies. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 831 

PUNCTURED WOUNDS. 

NAILS, GLASS, STABS, CROCKERY, ETC. 

Punctures are wounds inflicted by pointed instruments, as knives, nails, 
forks, and others named above. Such injuries may be much more danger- 
ous than the size of their openings at the surface indicates, for deep-seated 
tissues and organs may be pierced, or the flesh may be forcibly pushed apart 
and jammed together, while the external opening is too small to give a 
sufficient channel for the escape of blood and foreign substances. Indeed, 
some of them, especially the smaller ones, may not bleed at all, and being 
neglected for that reason, may result disastrously and even fatally. As an- 
other extreme, a large artery may be opened and death ensue at once. 

In the treatment, severe bleeding should be checked. If this is exces- 
sive or persistent, or if other alarming symptoms arise, send for a surgeon. 
If the wound is deep and the opening small, a surgeon is then needed also 
to enlarge the opening. Should there be no bleeding at all, it will be well 
to forcibly suck the wound until a little blood escapes, then check it again. 
After stopping the hemorrhage, remove all foreign substances with the great- 
est pains. It is always best when possible to preserve the instrument that 
has inflicted the wound, so as to determine whether any part of it has re- 
mained in the flesh. 

The dressing will be mainly the same as the above for Cuts. If a blunt 
instrument has inflicted the injury, the treatment will be more like that for 
Bruises, given above. Special pains need be taken to keep the mouth of 
the wound open until healing has been completed froi7t the bottom upward. 

Three Cautions. — Owing to the frequent occurrence of punctured 
wounds and the neglect too often attending them, we append three par- 
ticular cautions: 

i. Never neglect injuries from nails, forks, splinters, thorns, pieces of 
glass and bone, pointed instruments in general, or deep pricks of pins and 
needles. 

2. Never leave foreign bodies in the flesh waiting for suppuration to 
take place and remove them. If you are unable to pull out a thorn, splinter, 
or other body, do not pick at it and thus increase the irritation, but open the 
skin and flesh along the whole length of the offending body and lift it out; 
then dress as for cuts. In severe cases, especially for the removal of a large 
splinter under a nail, visit a physician. 

3. If a needle or part of one has been driven into the flesh out of sight, 
do not try to re7nove it, but send for a physician, meanwhile keeping the 
injured part perfectly quiet. The slightest movement of the wounded 
member will tend to drive the needle further in. It is for that reason that 



332 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

this urgent caution is given, not because the presence of the instrument is 
attended with extraordinary danger. Indeed, needles have remained in the 
muscles for months and years, traversing different parts of the body without 
causing pain after their entrance. 

BITES: MAD DOGS AXD OTHER ANIMALS. 

If there is no ground for suspecting that the animal is mad (for symp- 
toms of madness, see Hydrophobia in the part of this book devoted to the 
animal inflicting the bite), treat as for Punctures, Bruises, or Lacerations, 
according to the character of the wound produced. 

If the animal is mad, or in the least suspected, prevent 
the blood from flowing from the wound toward the heart, 
as far as practicable. This is best done by immediately 
removing the clothing, when necessary, grasping the 
flesh with the teeth so as to take in the full depth of 
the wound, then pressing and sucking with all of one's 
might. Of course the spittle should be most carefully 
thrown from the mouth at once. Friends of the patient 
should abstain from this sucking if they have any break 
in the skin about the lips, or in the mucous membrane 
of the mouth, and should also prevent contact of the 
blood or other discharge from the bite with breaks in 
the skin on any part of their bodies. Such a precaution 
is not so imperative in the patient, since he has already 
been infected. In place of such a procedure, if friends 
can not suck the wound, or if the patient is alone and 
can not reach the point of trouble with the mouth, 
forcible pressure with the fingers may be resorted to. 
As soon as possible after the bite, a handkerchief or 
other ligature should be applied close up to the wound, 
71. To Excll-de Poisox as shown in figure 71, as an accessory means to the 
' 'from the system. * suc king and cauterization. This will check the flow of 
blood back into the system and thus materially lessen the chances of that 
infection which often lurks in the blood, keeps the patient in constant dread 
that hydrophobia will set in, and thus produces a mental unrest that is 
most prejudicial. 

After the above step has been taken, or when it is impracticable, thrust 
down into the wound some small iron or other metal, raised to a red (not 
black) heat, a white heat being still better, holding it there until the flesh 
all around and to the bottom of the wound has been thoroughlv seared. A 




MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 383 

live coal may be applied instead of the metal. A point of lunar caustic 
may be used for cauterizing but is not so good as the metal. 

After the cauterization, sooner if consistent with a prompt and thor- 
ough observance of the above directions, send for a physician. Meanwhile 
keep the cauterized wound covered with compresses of water and bella- 
donna. The physician should cut away the flesh, including all that the 
teeth touched, wash the wound in warm water, and freely syringe it and 
cover with pure carbolic acid. Afterward, keep up the belladonna com- 
presses until healing is completed. 

If the animal is only suspected of being mad, keep him confined until 
his actual condition has been determined, so as to remove doubt as to the 
person bitten being infected. It may be found that he is not mad. If he is 
known to be mad, kill him at once. For further directions, see Hydropho- 
bia in Man. 

Though the dog is most liable to v be mad, the cat, skunk, fox, wolf, 
horse, cow, and other animals may be infected, and their bites will have the 
same general effect as that of the dog. Special precautions will, of course, 
be taken about the cat and other domestic animals. A goodly number of 
instances have been recorded in which the bite of the common skunk or 
polecat has produced madness of a more fatal type than that resulting from 
dogs. The animal being wild, one has less chance of knowing whether it 
is mad, so that it is always safer to treat its bite as one from a dog that is 
mad or suspected. 

The scratch of a cat, fox, or other animal, or of birds of prey, may be 
as serious as a bite and should be treated as here directed. 

BITES OF SNAKES. 

If the snake is known to be not venomous, treat as for Punctures. If 
the bite is certainly poisonous, or if its character is in doubt, bind and cau- 
terize as directed above for the bite of a mad dog and send for a physician, 
the patient not exercising enough to accelerate circulation. Meanwhile, if 
the wound is known to be venomous, give brandy or whisky, as strong as 
the patient can swallow it, a gill every fifteen minutes, or a less amount 
oftener, until intoxication comes on. In instances of very poisonous bites, 
several quarts of spirits have been drunk in a day with impunity. If it is 
not known whether the snake is venomous, give the spirits in less quanti- 
ties, but very frequently ; if the wound is not poisonous, intoxication will 
soon come on, and the liquor is then to be left off. If possible, the sufferer 
should be treated immediately after the bite, before he takes physical exer- 
cise, lest the poison become more active by hastened circulation. 



S'S4: COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

BITES AND STINGS OF INSECTS. 

Ordinary cases of bites and stings of bees, hornets, wasps, spiders, mos- 
quitoes, and other insects cause little trouble aside from temporary pain and 
swelling. It is always best, especially in the worst cases, to suck the poison 
out of the wound. Then apply slices of onion, frequently changed, and the 
pain will speedily disappear. Camphor is good, as are also aromatic spirits 
of ammonia (applied on top of the wound only): extract of witch-hazel 
(hamamelis); lime-water: soda: wet mud: common salt, dampened and 
rubbed in; catnip, bruised or chewed, is said to be especially good for the bite 
of a spider. If a sting is left in the flesh, pluck it out before using any ap- 
plication. If it has gone down perpendicularly out of sight, place a key 
with a hollow stem over it, so that the opening of the wound will be im- 
mediately in the hole of the key: gradually bear down, and the sting will 
usually come out. If there is much swelling, give apis internally. For 
symptoms of fever, give aconite. 

If the eye or other sensitive part has been stung, or if there are many 
stings, as by a swarm of bees, prompt treatment is demanded and a physi- 
cian should be secured. If the system is deranged, even one sting may 
prove serious, and the ordinary bites of mosquitoes sometimes cause much 
fever and depression. The sting or bite of a scorpion, tarantula, or other 
venomous insect or worm should be treated as directed for Bites of 
Snakes. 

To prevent trouble when exposed to insects, dilute carbolic acid is 
the best means to use, washing the exposed parts of the body in it once 
or twice daily. Soap rubbed on at night will keep awav mosquitoes: it 
is almost or quite as effective, and not so disagreeable. Equal parts of 
oil of pennvroval and sweet oil, frequently applied, is an excellent pre- 
ventive when troubled by mosquitoes in the woods. 

POISON IVY AXD NETTLES. 

After coming in contact with the poison oak. poison sumac, poison ivy 
(three-leafed poison vine), or even after being near them, some people are 
affected with itching of the skin, burning, swelling, and watery or mattery 
pimples. The affection is sometimes so bad that the parts are much dis- 
torted. This effect is favored by dew or other dampness on the leaver as 
also bv sweat on the person. Irritation is also caused by stings of nettles 
and other plants. 

Different individuals require different treatment. Sweet cream rubbed 
on the parts is very useful. Make a lotion of a tablespoonful of cooking- 
soda and three pints of water, and keep cloths wrung out in it upon the 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



335 



parts. If fever-symptoms come on, give aconite; belladonna, if there is 
much swelling or headache. Keep the body cool. 



BURNS AND SCALDS. 

Caution. — So many serious injuries result from fire in clothes, cur- 
tains and other fabrics that we recommend that in washing them, especially 
the clothes of children, the last water used in the rinsing contain some alum. 
This is a simple, cheap and convenient precaution, renders the clothes less 
inflammable, and may be the means of avoiding the saddest of accidents. 

Unlike most wounds of the flesh, burns and scalds are serious in pro- 
portion to the extent of the surface affected, not to the depth. It is of much 
importance that this be known. If any tissues are destroyed, a scar will 
inevitably be formed, and according to the extent of its surface will "draw" 
the adjacent parts, producing disfigurement or even the greatest deformity, 
even though it be treated by a skillful physician. There is, therefore, a 
necessity for immediate attention, to keep down the scar as far as possible. 

In a burn, the first thing to 
do, of course, is to put out the 
fire. If it is in the clothing, the 
patient should not run about, 
since that will fan the flames, nor 
should he utter cries, for thereby 
flames or steam will be inhaled. 
By his own hands, or by friends 
who may be near, he should be 
quickly wrapped in a cloak, 
blanket, coat, rug, or other cover- 
ing, and be rolled about. If a bed is at hand, it furnishes a good means^ 
though it may increase the danger of setting fire to the house. Mere roll- 
ing on the floor or ground may be sufficient, and should always be resorted 
to, whether covering is at hand or not. Dashing water on the flame is not 
as reliable as the smothering mentioned, and should never be resorted to 
for the purpose of putting out the flames in a lamp, or in any fire where oil 
or acids can be scattered by the water, for it will then only increase the fire. 
In extinguishing a fire and in cases of scalds, keep the flames and hot 
steam away fro?n the mouth and nostrils, because their entrance into the 
lungs is attended with the gravest results. In addition to this precaution, 
the face, neck and hands should be protected as much as possible, because 
any subsequent disfigurement of these parts will be more conspicuous. 
After the flames have been quenched, pour water on any remaining embers 




Extinguishing a Blaze. 



336 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

in the clothes. In cases of scalds, water should be poured at once on the 
injured parts. 

In removing the clothing from the affected surface, which will alwaj's 
be done as soon as practicable after the above steps, cut it away with a 
sharp knife or scissors, so as to avoid all tearing or pulling of the skin or 
blisters; if any pieces of clothing adhere closely to the flesh, cut up to the 
skin and leave the patch. However slight the surface-injury appears, if 
very hot air or steam has been inhaled, summon medical aid at once, keep- 
ing the patient meanwhile in as comfortable a position as possible. Such 
aid will also be secured if the visible injury is severe and destroys any tissues 
because ulcers will surely form, perhaps with gangrene, if not immediately 
and skillfull)' treated. 

When simple redness of the surface is the only result, it soon disappears 
without treatment. If blisters form immediately under the outer skin, they 
should be pricked with a needle, and their contents be pressed out. For 
burns and scalds in general, an excellent remedy is made of equal parts of 
olive oil, or pure linseed oil, and lime-water, well mixed. Wet linen cloths 
in this and apply them smoothly to the parts, putting over them a layer of 
oil-silk to completely exclude the air. Renew the dressing when it be- 
comes dry. A layer of fine dressing-lint or absorbent cotton, if obtainable, 
is preferable to the linen. When applied early and persistently, this lotion 
will often prevent serious ulceration and gangrenous conditions, and has, in 
the writer's experience, healed extensive burns without leaving scars, even 
when the skin has been destroyed. In the majority of cases it alone will be 
amply sufficient. In changing the cloths, the greatest care should be taken 
not to cause pain. This lotion will keep for an indefinite time and a bottle 
of it should be kept about the house. If the injury is deep and the 
sore is of an offensive odor, twenty drops of carbolic acid may be put in a 
pint of the olive-oil lotion before dressing the wound with it. 

In the absence of the above remedy, and until it can be secured, tempo- 
rary relief from pain can be found in applying flour, starch, or baking-soda 
to the part and covering with a wet cloth. The only effect of these is relief 
for the time being — by the exclusion of the air — and the same may be 
attained by applying soft wadding or any other dry, soft covering. 

Avoid patent applications which are "warranted'' to relieve pain at 
once, unless they are certainly known to be harmless, for they generally 
contain sugar of lead or other injurious ingredients which may be absorbed 
and induce grave results. In dressing, too, cotton or other cloths which can 
leave shreds in the wound should not be used. 

Disturbances of the general system may ensue, more or less serious 
according to localitv and extent, and the age and condition of the patient. 



MAN — EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 387 

These injuries are most serious when affecting the trunk, and usually pro- 
duce chilliness in infants and the aged, this being a dangerous symptom if 
persistent, and attended with an insensibility to pain. The nervous shock 
may bring on convulsions, lock-jaw, or other serious complications, unless 
remedies are used at once to reduce the nervous irritability. Give aconite 
if there is much fever. Administer it early, since it will allay the pain and 
moderate the reaction. Rhus also reduces fever and favors the healing of 
blisters. Arsenicum is needed when there is ulceration or gangrene, and 
for prostration of the vital forces. If the patient takes cold and the sore is 
very painful, red and swollen, give belladonna and rhus in alternation. 

LIME, CAUSTIC, AMMONIA, POTASH, ETC. 

Lime, ammonia, potash, and other alkalies, if brought in contact with 
the skin, may "eat" into the flesh and cause serious harm. If they be im- 
mediately brushed off, they may leave no injury. It is best, even after 
brushing them off, and in all treatment, to at once apply dilute vinegar or 
other acid. The resulting sore should be treated as for Burns. If the vapor 
of ammonia be inhaled, it will cause irritation and perhaps destruction of 
the membrane of the air-passages. In such cases, inhale the vapor of vine- 
gar from the spout of a tea-pot for some minutes, and then inhale steam for 
a long time in the same or a like manner. 

CARBOLIC ACID, SULPHURIC ACID, ETC. 

Carbolic, sulphuric (oil of vitriol), nitric (aqua fortis), muriatic, and other 
strong acids are as destructive as the alkalies. Apply water at once to 
dilute the acid until it is harmless. Dirt from the ground is very useful and 
may be applied when water is not at hand. The alkalies mentioned above 
neutralize the acids, but their injudicious use in large quantities, or upon the 
parts not affected with the acids, will produce their natural caustic effects. 
Sores left by acids should be treated as Burns. 

WOUNDS FROM FIRE-ARMS AND EXPLOSIONS. 

If a bullet or slug has entered the flesh, a surgeon will be called to ex- 
tract it and take charge of the case, measures being meanwhile adopted to 
stop the bleeding, as heretofore directed. 

The reckless use of fire-arms, loaded with lead or slugs of any kind, is 
universally condemned, yet the accidents and deaths resulting from them are 
not more numerous or lamentable than those from the careless handling of 
the various toy cannons, pistols, torpedoes, fire-crackers, and other contriv- 
ances for the playful explosion of powder. The visible injuries are so slight 

22 



338 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

that they are very often neglected, and the consequence is that hundreds of 
lives are lost in this country on holiday occasions, generally among children. 
Fatal lock-jaw is the most frequent issue. If any metallic substance has 
entered the flesh, a surgeon will be needed to remove it, and indeed such 
service is demanded for any deep wound from the explosion of powder. 

The treatment of such cases consists in stopping the blood, the removal 
of powder, dirt, bits of clothing, or whatever may be in the wound, with a 
rational combination of expedients named for Punctured Wounds and for 
Burns. 

Explosions of boilers, gas, blasting, and the like, are liable to inflict 
wounds with flying irons, stones and timbers. The treatment should be 
selected according to the nature of the injury from the directions given for 
Bruises, Lacerations, and Punctured Wounds. 

DROWNING. 

HOW TO PREVENT IT. 

Every one, old and young, should learn how to swim, since accident if 
not choice often exposes one to danger of drowning, and there are besides 
frequent occasions for assisting others when in the water. If such precau- 
tion has not been taken, one may be benefited by some common-sense ob- 
servations at this point. 

The body, without clothing, free from all weights, and before water 
has been swallowed, is a little lighter than the water which it displaces. It 
will therefore float, if kept in the right position, with the mouth above the 
surface to keep water out of the body. The reasonableness of the follow- 
ing directions for attaining these two ends will be apparent. 

Do not throw the arms up, since that makes the body sink. 

Keep the lungs full of air as much as possible, that is, draw in a long, 
deep breath, holding it in the lungs some time, then expelling it suddenly, 
and quickly begin to draw in as before. The air in the lungs serves as a 
buoy, and the body will tend to sink when it is expelled. 

Keep yourself on your back, with the hands stretched backward frojn 
the head, never in their natural position at the side. This tends to keep 
the body in a horizontal position; the arms at the side will drive the feet 
down, and bring the person off the back. Do not be frightened so long as 
the face and mouth are out of water, as there is no danger of drowning, 
but regain composure to apply the above rules. 

Caution about Cramps. — Many people, including the best of swim- 
mers, are drowned because attacked with "cramp." No warning is given 
of this involuntary contraction of the muscles and the sufferer sinks at once. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 839 

Those who have been engaged in laborious manual work or in any way 
exposed to muscular exhaustion, and those who are suffering from reduced 
vitality, are especially subject to it. Such persons, and all who are affect- 
ed from exhaustion or weakness of the nervous system, as well as those who 
have painful, knotty cramps in the muscles when out of the water, should 
never voluntarily enter the water beyond their depth, 

TO RESCUE THE DROWNING. 

When trying to rescue a drowning person, it is of the highest impor- 
tance, when possible, to assure him in a cheerful tone that he is safe, and to 
persuade him to cease struggling, since such efforts will make him swallow 
water and diminish the chances of rescue. It is senseless foolhardiness for 
a swimmer to seize one who is struggling in the water, since he wili blindly 
grasp the rescuer on any part and almost surely drag him to the bottom. 
When he becomes quiet, grasp him by the hair, throw him on his back, 
give him a sudden pull so as to make him float, and start for the shore. 
In this way one swimmer has landed two or more persons after putting 
them afloat. When a body has sunk to the bottom, one should dive down 
and grasp it with one hand only, using the other to paddle back to the surface. 
If there is a strong outsetting tide or undertow, a rescuer, as indeed any 
swimmer, should throw himself on his back and float until help comes, for 
he will soon become exhausted by battling against such a current. 

TO RESTORE THE DROWNED. 

When one is apparently dead from drowning and has not been in the 
water long, there are many chances of restoration. Not a moment is to be 
lost. If three or more are present, one may be sent for a physician. If 
not, let all efforts be put upon the patient. 

First, restore the breathing; second, after breathing returns, promote 
warmth and circulation. The following directions are Marshall Hall's 
Ready Method, with some important changes and additions. 

Rule i . Treat the patient instantly on the spot, in the open air, freely 
exposing the face, neck and chest to the breeze, except in severe weather. 
Loose the collar, cravat, braces, corset or other close apparel, so as to insure 
freedom in circulation and expansion of the lungs. 

Rule 2. To clear the throat, mouth and nostrils from dirt, water, 
mucus, and the like, place the patient gently on the face with one of his 
wrists under his forehead, that all fluids and the tongue may fall forward 
and leave the entrance into the windpipe free. This point is insured by 
grasping the body under the abdomen, as shown in the cut, smartly jerking 



34:0 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the body up until the head barely touches the ground, holding it there for 
three or four seconds, and repeating the operation once or twice. 

Rule 3. Artificial Breathing. — To excite respiration, turn the patient 
slightly on his side and apply some irritating or stimulating agent to the 
nostrils, as dilute ammonia, if it can be had. 

Rule 4. Make the face warm by brisk friction; then dash cold water 
upon it. 

Rule 5. If the means already mentioned do not effect restoration, 
place the patient on his back on a flat surface, inclined a little from the feet 



73. Clearing the Throat and Mouth. 

upward; raise and support the head and shoulders on a small firm cushion 
or folded article of dress placed under the shoulder blades. Keep the mouth 
open with a cork or stick, and the tongue out by passing an elastic or other 
band over it and under the chin. 

Rule 6. To Imitate the Movements of Breathing. — The operator, 
standing or kneeling behind or at the head of the patient, should grasp the 
patient's arms at or just above the elbows, and draw the arms gently and 
steadily upward until they meet above the head (this is to produce inspira- 
tion, or drawing air into the lungs), and keep them there for two seconds. 
He should then turn down the patient's arms, and press them gently and 
firmly for two seconds against the sides of the chest (this is to produce ex- 
piration, or pressing the air out of the lungs). If an assistant press with the 
palms of both hands the lower part of the ribs and diaphragm when the 
patient's arms are turned down, the expiration will be facilitated. Repeat 
these movements fifteen or sixteen times a minute. Though one operator 
can practice this method, it is best to have assistants when possible, 
and they should carefully act together. As the process of artificial res- 
piration is very wearisome, the best qualified assistants should be selected 



AN— EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



841 




74. Inspiration. 




75. Expiration. 




76. A Part of the Michigan Method. 



34:2 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

to exchange places with the operator; but the changing should be as rapid 
as possible, so that not a single respiratory movement may be lost. The 
operation should be persisted in and hope not be abandoned until it is cer- 
tain that death has taken place. Life has been restored after several hours 
of laborious and seemingly hopeless toil. 

If signs of life do not return in an hour, the operator will find relief 
for himself, and perhaps greater facility of restoration, by adopting one part 
of the "Michigan Method," as illustrated in the cut. Placing the body on 
the abdomen, with one wrist under the forehead, the neck straight, the 
tongue still out, and the passage open through the mouth and nostrils into 
the lungs, the operator stands astride of the back, puts his elbows against 
and inside the knees and his hands upon the sides and back of the patient's 
chest, over the short ribs. He now throws his weight upon his elbows and 
so presses the chest in, effecting an expiration, or expulsion of air from the 
lungs. After slowly counting two, he suddenly comes back upon his feet, 
grasping the shoulders and lifting the chest, thus opening it and effecting 
an inspiration, the air rushing into the lungs by its own pressure. A third 
hour may be used in the method above described, if life has not returned. 

It is well for one to practice these methods upon a living subject, so as 
to better understand their philosophy and effects, and be the more expedi- 
tious when an emergency occurs. Its use is requisite in apparent death 
from suffocation, shock, lightning, poisoning, and other causes. 

Too much pains can not be taken to keep all those who are not neces- 
sarily engaged in assisting completely away from all contact with the pa- 
tient, in order that a full supply of fresh air may be insured. This remark 
applies to all the cases of resuscitation ivhich are to be treated in the follow- 
ing pages, and should be heeded by all officiously "kind friends" in every 
case of urgency. 

Rule 7. Circulation and Warmth, — After restoring respiration, wrap 
the patient in dry blankets, and begin rubbing the limbs upward firmly and 
energetically. The friction must be continued under the blankets or over 
the dry clothing. Promote the warmth of the body by the application of 
hot flannels, bottles or bladders of hot water, heated bricks, and the like, to 
the pit of the stomach, the armpits, between the thighs, and to the soles of 
the feet, if any of them are accessible. Warm clothing may generally be 
obtained from bystanders. 

Strength. — On the restoration of life, when the power of swallowing 
has returned, a teaspoonful of hot water, small quantities of warm wine, 
warm brandy-and-water, or coffee, should be given. In some cases an 
enema of beef-tea and brandy is to be preferred, administered through the 
rectum by a physician. The patient should be put into a warm bed in a 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 348 

room well ventilated, and encouraged to sleep. Great care is requisite to 
maintain the restored vital actions, and to prevent- undue excitement. 

The old practice of rolling the patient on a barrel, or in any way keep- 
ing the head down and working the body, is useless if not directly harmful 
and dangerous. It was supposed that such a procedure would pump water 
out of the lungs, but the fact is that the water does not enter the lungs in 
any such way as was assumed in former times. 

HANGING. 

In a case of attempted suicide by hanging, untie or cut the rope or 
strap immediately, not allowing the body to fall violently; open or remove 
the clothing; dash cold water violently and copiously upon the face, head, 
neck and chest. Then follow the directions given under "Drowning" for 
Artificial Breathing, Circulation, Warmth and Strength. Send for a 
physician if enough help will be left to work with the patient. 

STROKE OF LIGHTNING. 

When little or no signs of life are presented after a stroke of lightning, 
hastily remove the clothing; dash cold water on the body ten or fifteen 
minutes; wipe dry; then observe the foregoing rules for Artificial Breath- 
ing, Circulation, Warmth and Strength, under « Drowning." If suffi- 
cient aid is at hand, one should go for a physician. Keep up the efforts; 
restoration has been effected after an unconsciousness of an hour or more. 
Burns caused by lightning should be treated as directed for Burns. If fly- 
ing splinters or limbs have torn or bruised the flesh, treat as for Bruises, 
Lacerations, and other kinds of wounds. 

SUNSTROKE AND OVER-HEATING. 

Gently open or remove the clothing at once, and pour cold water upon 
the head, neck and shoulders, to reduce the heat of the body. If the 
patient breathes feebly, or not at all, practice Artificial Breathing, as 
directed for " Drowning." See Sunstroke in a previous chapter. 

CHOKING. 

When anything has become lodged in the throat, two or three smart 
slaps should be given on the back just below the neck, meanwhile keeping 
the chest and stomach against a table or other firm body. If this does not 
remove it, pass the finger into the throat to the root of the tongue, bend it 
in the form of a hook and thus draw out the obstruction, if in reach. 



344 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Holding the body up by the heels and slapping the back has often proved 
effectual when other means have failed. Some cases, however, resist all 
means that are at hand, and a surgeon is required, as indeed in any con- 
tinued choking. 

When a pin or other sharp body is in the throat, efforts to dislodge it 
by coughing or b}^ the finger should not be made. If the tongue is held 
down, the offending instrument can often be seen, and then removed with 
forceps or tweezers, or possibly with the fingers. 

SUFFOCATION BY GAS. 

Suffocation is caused by " choke-damp," carbonic acid gas, sulphurous, 
nitrous, charcoal, sewer, coal, illuminating, chlorine, and other gases, such as 
collect in old wells, caves, mines, vaults, sewers, and in rooms where coal is 
burning, or where illuminating gas is escaping. The chief danger in living 
apartments arises during the sleeping-hours. 

In treating a case, bring the body quickly into the fresh air, strip off 
the clothes, particularly the collar and all bands or clothing about the neck, 
chest and abdomen that can conflict with breathing; dash cold water 
rapidly and forcibly upon the head, neck and shoulders, if the body is not 
already wet from lying in water. Then apply Artificial Breathing, Circu- 
lation, Warmth and Strength, as previously directed for " Drowning." If 
the person has been in water and become chilled, do not shower the body, 
but proceed with the other measures immediately. 

Facts and Cautions. — Such gases, in general, are heavier than the air, 
and, if left undisturbed, tend to settle at the bottom. Hence, one may stand 
with impunity in some places, while sitting or lying would cause rapid 
suffocation. 

On the other hand, these same gases may be made partially or wholly 
harmless upon being vigorously disturbed, and so diffused in the air. 

Though no time should be lost in bringing a suffocating person to the 
air, caution is of the first moment, because the would-be rescuer will him- 
self be quickly prostrated if he inhale the gas. 

If the body is so near a door or other entrance that it can be dragged 
away while vou hold your breath, fill the lungs deeplv with pure air, rush 
in and bring out the bodv, holding the breath meanwhile, or letting it 
escape gradually, but never ' ; taking a breath " while exposed to the gas. 
for suffocation is often instantaneous. 

If the body can not be so readily removed, knock in the windows and 
doors to produce a draught of air. If this can not be done hastily, or even 
while others may be making such openings, cover the mouth and nose with 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 845 

a cloth wet in water, or, still better, in vinegar, and then enter for the body. 
The cloth keeps the gas from entering the lungs rapidly, thus enabling 
one to remain the longer. Vinegar partially neutralizes the gas. 

If one has become helpless or unconscious from gas in a well, mine, 
cave or pit, hastily provide means for lowering some one, and meanwhile 
disturb the gas at the bottom as violently as possible to cause its diffusion. 
This can be done by lowering an open umbrella by the handle, or any 
vessel of similar shape, and quickly bringing it up again; or by throwing 
down quantities of water, or branches of trees, or burning paper or straw, 
if quite sure that the body will not be burned — anything to make the gas 
less noxious. The assistant who descends should have his mouth and nose 
covered with a cloth wet in vinegar or water, should have a cord secured 
around his waist, and be provided with a signal-cord, one end of which he 
will hold all the time, the other being in the hand of some one at the top. 
Signal-jerks should be made on this cord from above every second or two, 
and if a response is not given at any time, the person will be understood as 
suffering from the gas, and be immediately brought up. If not overcome, 
he will tie the body with a cord let down for that purpose, and will be then 
elevated along with his burden. 

Never take an open light into a room filled with illuminating gas, lest 
an explosion occur. 

If burning straw, paper or shavings be thrown into a sewer or privy- 
vault to dispell the gas, be careful to avoid burning your person, for such 
gas is highly explosive. 

If a light is put out upon being lowered into a well, pit or mine, it is 
an evidence that life cannot be sustained therein; but if it still burns, 1 that 
is not an invariable sign that it is safe to enter, since the flame will continue 
in sulphureted hydrogen, one of the most fatal gases to be found in such 
places. Since this test is not absolutely reliable, it is best in all cases of 
doubt to observe the above precautions as to diffusing the gases. 

Great care should be taken in opening drains and privy-vaults that 
have been long closed, because the gases escaping therefrom are very poi- 
sonous, sometimes fatal. It is better to throw into such openings chloride 
of lime, or common plaster-lime mixed with water. 

FAINTING.— SWOONING. 

Fainting is more common when the nervous system is deranged or 
weakened. It may result from the sight of blood, a wound, suffering in 
general, excessive joy, fright, or other violent emotion, or from other influ- 
ences seemingly trivial, and it may come on without warning or apparent 



346 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cause. The pulse and breathing become weak, or are wholly absent; the 
patient grows pale, loses muscular power and sensibility, and falls if not sup- 
ported. Restoration is generally easy. Immediately place the body on the 
back, simply lowering the chair backward if the patient is sitting, keeping 
the head on a level with the feet, or an inch higher, and sprinkle or rub 
cold water on the face. The upright position is positively dangerous. Cam- 
phor, cologne, or ammonia water may be placed under the nose. Give 
water to drink when sufficiently revived. 

If fainting accompanies a disorder of the heart, give digitalis after resto- 
ration. If a fright is the cause, give aconite. If there is pain in the head, 
give aconite and belladonna in alternation. Give ignatia or colocvnth if 
grief, indignation, or the like, is the cause. In general, when one feels 
faint, he should lie down at once. 

If fainting results from a fall, blow, weakness from loss of blood, or 
other violence, proceed as directed for Shock. 

SHOCKS-UNCONSCIOUSNESS. 

FALLS, BLOWS, COLLISIONS, ETC. 

From similarity of symptoms, a mild shock is easily confounded with 
fainting. Indeed, it is only the more severe forms which present signs 
materially different from those of the latter; yet the nature and causes, by 
our classification, are different. A shock is an actual depression of the 
physical, nervous or vital energies, and results from falls, blows, burns, 
wounds, poisons, loss of blood, collisions, whatever indeed can occasion an 
overwhelming disturbance of the functions of any part of the body. It is 
favored by a debilitated state of the system, and resists restoration in pro- 
portion to that debility. More or less of the following symptoms are pres- 
ent, according to the severity of the shock: Face usually pale, but some- 
times flushed; eyes closed, or wide open; breathing weak, sometimes 
snoring; pulse feeble; cold perspiration; blood lost by a flow, or bv spit- 
ting; perhaps sickness, vomiting, unconsciousness and apparent death. A 
frequent symptom, or rather form, of shock is being " knocked out of 
breath." After an accident, one may feel no inconvenience for some time, 
until reaction sets in. Indeed, it may be days or weeks before he learns that 
some obscure injury has been inflicted. Again, there may be great dis- 
quietude and depression, as in exciting emergencies. The shock may be 
even fatal. 

In such an emergency, insure a full supply of fresh air. If there is 
bleeding, stop it by methods already given. For injuries to the flesh,- use 
arnica internallv and externally; its internal use is needed for flushed face 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 347 

and anxiety; shivering- and trembling; dizziness and sickness. Give vera- 
trum viride for general coldness and clammy feeling of the body; relaxa- 
tion of muscles; pain in the head. Opium is indicated by snoring in the 
breathing; red face; quivering lips; free perspiration; and if fright attends 
the shock. Give aconite for threatened fainting, with palpitation of the 
heart; flushed face; staring eyes; or if fever sets in during reaction. If 
in the reaction there be red, bloated face, hard breathing, headache, or 
marks of delirium, give belladonna. China is needed for prostration from 
loss of blood, used alone, or in alternation with arnica. Give chamomilla 
for nervousness and pain ; ignatia, if there are hysterical signs. 

In severe cases, keep the patient on his back, as comfortable as pos- 
sible, with the head on a level with the feet, or not more than an inch higher 
if the face is pale, but well elevated if the face is flushed. Put on warm 
covering, apply hot bricks or bottles to the extremities and stomach, and 
rub the hands, feet and other cold parts under the clothing. 

To be sure, a wound, bleeding, or the like may prevent the full adop- 
tion of these means. If there is vomiting, let the patient swallow bits of ice. 
Should breathing be very feeble or wholly absent, use the means for Arti- 
ficial Breathing, Circulation, Warmth and Strength, under " Drowning." 

When unconsciousness comes on without a known cause, put the pa- 
tient on the back, with the head on a level with the feet if the face is pale, 
but well elevated if the face is red; use the hot applications and rubbing as 
just directed, if the symptoms indicate; or proceed as for Fainting, if the 
circumstances described in the last section above call for it. 

STUN.— CONCUSSION OF THE BRAIN. 

It is a frequent occurrence for a blow or other injury on the head to 
make the sufferer unconscious or insensible. The condition may vary from 
a slight stun to loss of life and necessarily requires immediate, rational at- 
tention. The patient is unconscious, pale, cold in the extremities, and with 
the pulse weak or entirely imperceptible. The breathing, if not entirely 
stopped, resembles a snore. If shaken and spoken to in a loud tone, the 
patient may answer, but is inclined to relapse at once into unconsciousness. 
He should not be so aroused, as it lessens the chances of recovery. After 
a time, reaction comes on, if the injury has not been too great, this stage 
being generally marked by vomiting. 

In treatment, place the patient in a warm bed, with his head quite low, 
and apply warmth to the extremities, under the arms, and between the 
limbs. He should be allowed to remain quiet, without any effort to arouse 
him or give him active treatment until reaction has taken place. When 



348 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

this comes on, the head may be raised and cold applications be put on it. 
Keep the room cool, quiet, with modified light, and free from loud talk and 
other noise. Strict care should be continued several days to prevent in- 
flammation of the brain or other bad result. 

Arnica should be given internally and applied externally when the 
difficulty has been caused by a blow or fall. Aconite, in alternation with 
arnica, is needed if there is much fever; belladonna, when the face is flushed, 
the eyes blood-shot, and there are headache and other symptoms. For de- 
lirium of any kind, give hyoscyamus. 

FROST-BITE.— FREEZING. 

The fingers, toes, ears, nose and lips are specially exposed to "frost- 
bite," which makes them stiff, hard, and white. This condition develops 
as circulation declines. At first, the part becomes puffy, bluish and smart- 
ing, then turns white, hard and insensible, the patient perhaps not noticing 
these changes, because relieved of the stinging of the cold. Such a condi- 
tion should be promptly treated with applications of cold, in a room of cold 
temperature. If not attended to at once, the injury will become severe, and 
death in the tissues will ensue, resulting in sloughing and deformity. At 
first, apply snow or pounded ice until the part softens; then ice- water, and 
as the injured tissue become^ pliant, the temperature of the application may 
be raised until circulation is wholly restored. Under ?zo circumsta?ices ex- 
pose the parts to a warm temperature or application until they become 
pliant, as that will favor sloughing and deformitv. 

What happens to the separate members in this way may affect the 
whole body, and the person perhaps be "frozen to death." This condition 
progresses as in the parts named above, on a larger scale. There is, how- 
ever, an almost irresistible inclination to sleep, which should be stubbornlv 
withstood, and the patient be kept in motion. If one has thus become in- 
sensible and is brought into a warm room, death will almost surelv be the 
result. He should be carefully removed to a cold room, and the clothing 
be gently removed. Then cover the patient for ten or fifteen minutes 
with snow or ice-water. After that, rub thoroughly for hours, using means 
to produce artificial breathing at first (see on Drowning), if natural respi- 
ration has ceased. In the rubbing, use cloths wet in ice-water and studiously 
apply the friction to all affected parts. If consciousness begins to return, 
and there is no part in which sensibilitv is absent, slowlv raise the tem- 
perature of the cloths and room, not letting them become actually warm. 
Restoration will be favored by the patient smelling camphor or ammonia. 
By this process of treatment, when patiently carried out, restoration has 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 349 

been secured in those who have been some hours apparently dead. When 
the patient is completely restored, give him small draughts of coffee and 
cover him with warm clothing. The diet may be gradually increased by 
adding gruel and beef-tea. 

In handling any stiff, frozen tissue, great care should be taken not to 
break it. This misfortune may be brought on more easily than most people 
think, especially in feeling and bending an ear, and will, of course, result in 
serious soreness, perhaps loss of the part. 

To be sure, if the patient has become insensible, immediate aid of a 
physician is needed, as it is, indeed, for any serious action of the frost. 

STARVATION. 

If one is unconscious from starvation, or in any way unable to swal- 
low, inject into the bowels small quantities of warm milk with a little 
brandy or wine in it, and lay over the stomach cloths wet in the same. 
When the patient can take it, give milk, only drop by drop at first, grad- 
ually increasing to a teaspoonful. Then a very little beef-tea may be given. 
After the patient has slept, not before, he may have a very light meal. The 
almost universal danger is that too much food will be given. A very little, 
feeding it often, is the safe and rational rule. 

CONVULSIONS.— FITS. 

If epilepsy is known to be the cause, consult the treatment of that 
disorder in this book, first putting a cork or stick between the teeth. This 
precaution as to keeping the teeth apart should be observed in any case in 
which there is danger of injury to the tongue. For other directions, see 
this subject in a previous chapter, as found from the index. 

APOPLEXY. 

When one suddenly falls in unconsciousness, and with flushed face and 
deep breathing, lift up the head and shbulders, call a physician, and consult 
the article on Apoplexy in Chapter III for further particulars. 

DIZZINESS. 

When feeling dizzy, lie down, or if that is impossible, sit down. Keep 
the eyes closed until the symptoms disappear. If dizziness comes on while 
one is climbing or otherwise ascending to a lofty elevation, he should keep 
the eyes directed upward. If one falls down when feeling dizzy, treat as 



350 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

for Fainting, Convulsions, Epilepsy, Apoplexy or Shock, according as the 
circumstances indicate one or another of these. 

FRIGHT.— EXCESSIVE EMOTIONS. 

Violent mental emotions are generally neglected because they do not 
cause fainting or other startling symptoms; yet they may produce serious 
results, and their effects should be reduced or arrested as far as possible. 

Opium should be immediately administered after a fright, followed by 
aconite if the effects continue. Ignatia is preferable for oppressive grief or 
indignation, and is also needed after opium and aconite if convulsions set in 
during their use. For violent or excessive angei", give nux vomica. Coffea 
is as good a remedy as can be found for sudden or immoderate emotions in 
general. Pulsatilla is superior for fright, fear, or timidity of disposition. 
Bryonia is indicated by coldness, shivering, irritability and nausea after a 
fit of passion. In any case, remove the exciting cause. 

CRAMPS IN THE MUSCLES. 

Painful cramps may attack parts of the body, and the muscles be 
suddenly drawn up into a knot. They seem to be constitutional in some 
persons, though generally occurring after exhaustion, muscular or nervous, 
more commonly the former, and sometimes result from the use of stimu- 
lants. If the cramp be in the leg, relief is given by jumping up and throw- 
ing the weight of the body on the affected member. If it is in the arms, 
grasping something with all of one's might, lifting or pulling, will drive it 
away. In other cases, or in connection with the above, vigorous rubbing 
is very beneficial. 

Give a dose of veratrum album every evening if cramp often occurs in 
the night; or rhus in the morning, if the attacks come on in the day while 
sitting as well as when in bed at night. Follow with sulphur to eradicate 
the tendency. Calcarea is needed if simple stretching out of the limbs 
brings on the cramp; nux vomica if there is numbness or rigidity in the 
limbs for some time after the cramp. 

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE EYE, EAR, AND NOSE. 

The Eye. — A cinder or other foreign body in the eye may be washed 
out by the increased secretion of tears which its presence causes. Water 
aj^plied with the hand may be sufficient. Or it may be wiped out with a 
moistened piece of linen or silk, a feather, or a bristle formed into a loop. 
If such expedients are not successful, the lid may be turned back over the 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 351 

end of an eating-knife, or over a small wire, as shown in the cut, when the 
rolling of the ball will usually reveal the offending object to view in such a 
way that it may be removed by some of the means named above. It may 
have become so imbedded that the point of a needle must be used, with 

delicate care, to remove it. If the obstruction 

.,., i adheres to the upper lid, perhaps it will be re- 

;|/ moved by holding up that lid and then attempt- 

I 4?*sJm in & to c ^ ose tne e y e - The lower lid is thus 

If if If brought up under the upper and may brush away 

•^^^^^^mMy / the object. If inflammation results, wash the eye 

^jjjpt %^> — out with cold water, to which may be added 

jjjjjj illr "'^sMbS^ arnica or Pond's Extract, ten drops of either 

SJIllv Jfe illllSfe- to a half-teaspoonful of water. 

-^^jjB BlilP^ ^ nrae ? potash or other alkali has entered the 

<= ^^^^J5^^ eye, do not stop to remove it, but put into the 

„ ~T ^ eve dilute vinegar or other acid. Consult a 

77. Foreign Body in the Eye. j ° 

physician as soon as possible if the case is at all 
bad. For further directions on foreign bodies in the eye, see Chapter X. 

The Ear. — If an -insect enters the ear, it may cause much pain. Turn 
the affected ear upward, by throwing the head on one side, and pour in 
warm water. Let it remain a moment, then raise the head and let the 
water come out, assisting the escape by taking hold of the upper tip of 
the ear and lifting it a little. Repeat the operation if not at first successful. 
A syringe may be tfsed, though pains should be taken not to insert the noz- 
zle or tip deep into the ear. No other instrument should be put into the ear 
except by a skillful physician, and an aurist is always to be preferred. In 
the case of an insect in the ear, it may be well to blow tobacco smoke 
in on it first, to stupefy it. With the exception of the last remark, the 
directions given will apply to all foreign bodies, with a special caution 
added about using water on such as will swell when moist, as grains and 
seeds. Fuller notes on this subject with just cautions on the use of instru- 
ments are given in Chapter X. 

The Nose. — Children often put buttons, beads, and the like in the 
nose, thus subjecting themselves to much inconvenience and, in the case of 
infants, to pain whose cause may be pointed out only by the ensuing inflam- 
mation. As treatment, close the free nostril by pressing against it, and 
have the patient blow through the obstructed one. If unsuccessful, let the 
child close the mouth and unobstructed nostril, after taking a full breath, 
and strike the back smartly with the palm of the hand. When an obstruc- 
tion is to be removed with an instrument, place the finger above it firmly, 
on the outside of the nose, so that it may not be pushed farther up. Then 






COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



gentiv shove an oiled wire hook or forceps up around it and slowly with- 



draw it. If reasonable eft: ts are not successful, 
inflammation and swelling: become bad. 



sro to a surgeon before 



FRACTURES. 

A fracture of a bone is generally caused bv a fall, blow, or other me- 
chanical injury, but may result from violent muscular exertion and, in old 
people, from a diseased condition of the bone. It is attended with a ~ \ 
felt by the sufferer; by bending or shortening of the limb; by .grating of the 
ends of the bone when worked against each other; sometimes by protrusion 
of the bone through the skin. There is usually severe pain, with loss of 
power of the injured part. 

A surgeon must be summoned, of course, or the patient be taken to 
one. Friends often betray too much eagerness about getting such aid im- 
mediately. Much more time may elapse without bad result before a bone 
is "set" than is general! v supposed. As a mistake in the first dressing may 
result in a life-long deformity, time should be taken, even if it takes a day 
or two, to secure a surgeon of known skill. Meanwhile the bone, without 
any attempt at setting it, should be placed as 
nearly as possible in its natural position, and so 





Securing a Fractured Leg. 



- . A SliHG FOR THE . 



secured. In case the patient is to be moved from the place of accident, and 
it is a leg that is broken, bind together the two limbs by a bandage around 
the ankles, another just below the knee, and a third above the knee, as in 
the cut. A fractured arm should be placed in a sling and be tied to the 
bodv with bandages. Broken ribs must be held with a broad bandage 
applied smoothlv around the body. This also gives much relief by Ic- 
ing the action of the chest in breathing. 

The patient should be laid on a stretcher, cot or other like appliance, 



MAN — EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



353 



so that twisting of the limb may be avoided as far as possible. Such a 
means of transportation causes less jarring than a wagon, but may not be 
practicable if the distance is great. Particular care should be exercised in 
the moving, not only to avoid pain, but also to prevent forcing the bone 
through the flesh. The bearers should use moderation, remembering that 
no advantage is gained by haste, while much injury may be caused. 



DISLOCATIONS. 

In a dislocation, a bone is pulled or wrenched out of the socket, with 
much straining of the ligaments. However successfully treated, it is weaker 
than before, and much less violence will produce a second dislocation. It is 
caused by mechanical agencies of different kinds, and is marked by a swell- 
ing on the joint (caused by the end of the bone), by shortening and twist- 
ing of the limb, loss of the use of the 
limb, great pain, and swelling. A sur- 
geon should be secured before the 
swelling has advanced far, if one of real 
skill can be called so soon. In other 
respects, the remarks on Fractures are 
the directions that are needed here. 




Reduction by an Assistant. 




Si. Reduction by the Patient. 



Since it is important to effect a reduction of a dislocation before inflamma- 
tion has advanced far, two cuts are here given for directions in the absence 
of a surgeon. They may be tried for a reasonable time, the joint being 
turned at various angles while firm pressure is applied. 

SPRAINS. 

When a ligament or tendon has been twisted or over-stretched, there 
is usually a rupture of some of the fibers, resulting in severe pain, inflam- 
2 3 



354 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

mation, and perhaps nausea. Such an injury occurs most often at the wrist, 
ankle or knee. The best treatment is pressure by means of adhesive straps 
applied firmly and evenly over the surface and renewed as soon as they be- 
come loose. If such means are not at hand, apply cloths frequently soaked 
in water as hot as it can be borne, until the straps can be applied. If the 
sprain be so located that it does not admit of the use of straps, a lotion of 
arnica, aconite, rhus, or hamamelis may be put on with cloths, oil-silk being 
put over them. 

Care should be taken for some weeks that the injury be not repeated, 
since the case would then be difficult and tedious in treatment. In a twisting 
of the ankle, there is special danger of breaking the small or "splinter" 
bone of the leg, and a surgeon should be at once consulted in any severe 
sprain of the ankle. Give perfect rest to the injured part. 

STRAINS. 

By a strain is meant the undue stretching of tendons or muscles by 
violent exertion, perhaps tearing them asunder. We thus distinguish it from 
a sprain, which is caused by an unusual tension or twisting in the ligaments 
of a joint. As in the latter, a strain may be attended with a fracture of 
some small bone and thus cause unexpected trouble. Hence, if there is much 
pain, surgical advice should be secured at once to determine the extent of 
the injury. The treatment consists, first of all, in giving rest to the injured 
part, the patient lying down if the back is affected. An external application 
should be made twice daily of rhus, arnica, or opodeldoc. Bryonia internally 
is needed for sharp pains in the back after unusual or sudden exertion ; rhus, 
for headache, or for persistent pains in the back; nux vomica or veratrum, for 
sickness or great pain in the bowels. Complete rest is absolutely necessary. 

RUPTURES. 

In a previous chapter it was stated that the intestines are surrounded by 
a wall of membrane. In consequence of weakness in that membrane, a 
mechanical injury, violent exertion, as in lifting, running, leaping, riding, 
straining at stool or in urinating, this wall may be broken and allow a portion 
of the intestines to come out and press against the skin, causing a peculiar 
pear-shaped protuberance. This is called rupture. Such a condition is 
more common in and below the groin and in the scrotum ; but the intestine 
may protrude at the navel or in the rectum, not being easily noticed in the 
last instance. Generally the bowel can be returned to its place, but sometimes 
not. Again, the opening may be so small as to press upon or "strangulate" 
the protruding intestine, interrupting its circulation and the passage of its 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 355 

contents, thus causing inflammation and perhaps ulceration and gangrene. 
The last-named form is the more dangerous, and will cause pain, fever, flatu- 
lence, desire to go to stool, though the bowels may be closed by the rup- 
ture, hiccough, vomiting (sometimes of the contents of the bowels forced 
upward), perhaps mortification and death. 

Though no one should ever think of trusting wholly or in the main 
to domestic treatment of rupture, though indeed a surgeon should be sum- 
moned as soon as the disorder is discovered, some measures should be 
adopted until such advice arrives, unless the surgeon is within a call of a 
few minutes. After some violent exertion one may experience a peculiar 
sensation in one of those parts most liable to the affection which were men- 
tioned above. An examination will detect the rupture, if one exists, in the 
form of a protrusion, perhaps very small at first, of a tumor which is gen- 
erally soft and painless on pressure. Now, it is obvious that the intestine 
falls through the opening by the mere force of gravity. Evidently, there- 
fore, the first thing required is the removal of that pressure; to effect which, 
lay the patient on his back at once and raise the affected part considerably 
higher than the upper portion of the body (lifting the head to prevent its 
engorgement with blood), keeping the leg and knee elevated. Take the 
point of the protruding tumor in one hand, and with the fingers of the other 
push the intestine back through the opening; but do this slowly and very 
gently, for even the slightest haste and least rudeness may cause injury and 
strangulation. Indeed, the urgency of prompt treatment in the beginning 
is based upon the danger of such strangulation if the rupture is allowed to 
remain an hour or more in waiting for a surgeon. It requires, as a rule, no 
great skill to return the intestine, if treated at once; but it does require 
patience, for an hour's trial may be necessary. If difficulty is experienced 
in this operation, great assistance may be rendered by injecting a large quan- 
tity of tepid water into the bowel, while the body is kept in the position 
described. This increases the pliability of the intestine, and produces a 
greater weight that presses up toward the chest. Both before the surgeon 
arrives, and in subsequent treatment, indeed for some time after one con- 
siders himself cured, the patient should, as far as possible, avoid coughing, 
sneezing, straining at stool, crying, in fact all kinds of straining and violence, 
for they tend to force the intestine out through the opening. He should 
also guard against undue trepidation. With good treatment, he will be 
materially aided and generally, if he be young, will be cured. 

When medical aid is secured, follow the directions i?nplicitly and pa- 
tiently. Remember that a cure is conditioned upon a union and new growth 
in a broken membrane, which is liable to break again if the measures of 
relief are left off for a time, or their use stopped too soon. It is much safer 



356 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

to continue the means recommended beyond the time prescribed by the 
physician than to stop them an hour sooner than he recommends. 

Some form of truss will be used, and the greatest pains are requisite in 
getting one which perfectly fits the affected parts. More than this, it mav 
slip little or much from its place, and must be replaced at once. It must be 
worn during the whole day, and is to be taken off after the patient lies down 
at night and put on before he rises in the morning. In general, exercise 
the greatest care in keeping the bowel from getting out through the open- 
ing after it has once been put back; the protrusion of a few minutes may 
induce strangulation, and will surely undo what good has been done. 

CARRYING THE INJURED. 

A few directions upon this subject will be of value in times of haste, 
and it may be said, first of all, that it is better not to practice too much haste, 
for it tends to make one do just the wrong thing. 

If there is but one bearer, he may pass an arm around the patient be- 
low the arms, while the latter throws his arm around the bearer's neck. If 
the patient is unable to assist himself thus, he may, his weight permitting, 
be taken into the arms as a child, or upon the shoulders. 

If there are two bearers, they may clasp two hands under the legs 
above the knees, with the other two around the "small of the back," while 
the patient passes his arms around their necks. In place of this, a seat may 
be made by throwing a coat over a board. 

A stretcher may be improvised from boards, shutters, benches, cots, 
mattresses and the like, properly covered with blankets, pillows, clothing, 
grass, straw, leaves, or whatever other suitable material is at hand. Ham- 
mocks, or strong fabrics of any kind, mav be used for the same purpose. A 
transjDort may be made of poles, with straps or withes reaching over them. 

These temporary devices should not be carried on the shoulders, but in 
the hands or with straps passing over the shoulders. The bearers should 
take short steps, avoid swaying of their bodies, and ?wt keep step. The 
sides of the stretcher should be kept on the same level, with the patient's 
head slightly elevated if the face is pale, much elevated if it is red. 

POISONS. 

In the present instance, the word " poisons " is limited to such things 
as have a deadly or noxious effect when taken into the stomach or lungs. 
Some of them are exceedingly active and bring on death in a few minutes, 
such as strychnine and prussic acid; while others act slowly, perhaps almost 
imperceptibly, and reduce the system during the lapse of hours, days, and 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 357 

even years, as is true in the case of those who have acquired a habit of 
using opium, alcohol, arsenic, and the like; or those who drink water im- 
pregnated with poison, or eat food cooked in poisonous utensils, or whose 
occupation, as painting and mining, brings them into prolonged contact with 
the noxious material. Of the poisons mentioned below, sufficiently small 
doses of any are comparatively harmless, and the remarks will apply to in- 
stances in which they have been taken in hurtful amounts, whether the re- 
sult is to be greater or less injury merely, or death. Hence, the reader will 
understand that the symptoms mentioned include all cases, and will treat 
the patient accordingly, without supposing that we claim all injurious doses 
are followed by all the symptoms named, especially the more violent ones. 

Poisonous Medicines. — Because arsenic, strychnine, aconite, bella- 
donna and other drugs included in the following lists are treated as poisons, 
there is a fear of using them as medicines. If they are used in quantity and 
frequency as directed by a responsible physician, no more danger attends 
them than other remedies which are taken without question or hesitation. 
Such overdoses as are taken by mistake or for criminal purposes are treated 
below. 

In this connection it is proper to say that some of those who use such 
caution about drugs often seriously or fatally poison themselves and others 
by the familiar cordials, paregorics, hive-syrups, and especially the sooth- 
ing-syrups, to say nothing of laudanum and other stronger preparations. 
By what means of investigation the figures were reached we know not, but 
a leading journal of pharmacy has stated that 150,000 infants are killed 
annually by the opium used in making the different kinds of "soothing- 
syrups," and we sympathize with the English physician who has said that 
" any mother, nurse, or baby-farmer using these substances ought to be 
treated as a criminal." Though there is some palliation of the wrong if the 
one who administers them is so lacking in information as never to have seen 
such a warning as the present one, there is no excuse after the caution has 
been given. It ought to be enough to deter one from their use to learn 
from an eminent English surgeon that half a teaspoonful of Godfrey's Cor- 
dial, or of Paregoric Elixir, has been known to kill an infant. That the 
infant is slowly poisoned to death does not shift the responsibility from the 
one who gave the poison. 

Cautions : — 1. Any active poison, or any poisonous medicine in a 
dangerous form, should be plainly and carefully labeled and, when possible, 
kept under key, always apart from other drugs or medicines. 

2. When a poison is about the house, a known antidote for the same 
should be kept by its side. Tne reader should now read the different 
methods below for making emetics, to arm himself for a time of need. 



85 S 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



EMETICS AND ANTIDOTES. 



Vomiting by the use of an emetic, to expel the poison from the stom- 
ach, is one of the two most common steps in the immediate treatment; 
antidotes, to neutralize the poison, is the other. As soon as it is consistent 
with a prompt use (in urgent cases) of the means mentioned under the 
different classes given below, summon a physician. Since emetics will be 
required in so many cases, we append directions for different kinds. 

Stir a dessert-spoonful of ground mustard or powdered alum in a 
gobletful of warm (not hot) water, give one-fourth of it (less for a child) 
followed by a cupful of warm water; repeat this at intervals of one min- 
ute until the desired effect is produced. Assist the emetic by tickling the 
inside of the throat with a feather, or with a finger. For poisoning by 
arsenic or tartar emetic, use cold {never warm) water to start the vomit- 
ing, but warm thereafter. This is the best emetic we can offer. 

It is not enough to merely induce vomiting; it should be kept up until 
the stomach is thoroughly freed from the poison. For this purpose, fol- 
low up with frequent drinks of warm water, or, still better, warm water 
with flour or white of egg in it; warm milk is also excellent. 

IB. 

Drink freely and often of simple warm water (not hot), or better still, 
of warm water with as much salt as it will dissolve, one cupful after an- 
other, tickling the throat and keeping up the vomiting, when started, as 
directed above. Use cold drinks at first for arsenic and tartar emetic. 



Dissolve in water as much sulphate of zinc (white vitriol) as will lie on 
a silver quarter-dollar, without heaping much, and drink the whole at once, 
following with a cupful of warm water, and repeating this three or four 
times at intervals of three minutes until vomiting occurs. Tickle the 
throat and continue the vomiting as directed under A. Pulverized ipe- 
cacuanha, a similar amount mixed in a cupful of water (it will not dissolve), 
and given every minute for three or four times, is an excellent emetic, 
especially for children; it should be assisted and followed up as just directed 
for sulphate of zinc. 

3D. 

Tickling the throat with the finger or a feather is obviously the sim- 
plest method. Though it is always a valuable aid in the other methods 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



85 ( J 



and is sometimes alone sufficient, it is not always reliable, especially when 
there are no fluids in the stomach. 

ARTIFICIAL SWALLOWING AND BREATHING. 

If the patient is unconscious, or is unable or unwilling to swallow, put 
him on his back, pass the thumbs inside the cheeks along the gums, and 
force them between the jaws back of the teeth, where biting them is impos- 
sible. Put the handle of a spoon or other smooth instrument well back on 
the tongue, press it down, and pour the emetic in the throat. There is no 
danger of strangling the patient if he does not catch his breath, cough, or 
talk. 

If there is apparent death after the poison has been removed from the 
stomach, resort to the directions for Artificial Breathing, Circulation, 
Warmth and Strength, given under " Drowning." 

INDEX OF POISONS. 

The poisons mentioned in the following pages are grouped into 
classes with reference to brevity and convenience of treatment. The reader 
will refer to the alphabetical index here subjoined for the class (not the 
page) under which he will find the desired directions for treatment. The 
Roman numeral opposite a given poison in the list corresponds to the class 
in which that poison is treated on some subsequent page. 



NAME. CLASS. 

Acid, Acetic XIX 

Arsenic II 

Carbolic XVIII 

Citric XIX 

Hydrochloric XIX 

— Hydrocyanic XVII 

Muriatic XIX 

Nitric XIX 

Nitro-muriatic XIX 

Oxalic XIX 

Prussic XVII 

Sulphuric XIX 

Tartaric XIX 

Aconite XXV 

Alcohol XXII 

Aloes XXVI 

Alum XII 

Ammonia XI 

Liquor of XI 

Muriate of XI 

Anemone (Meadow) XXVI 

Antimony.... VIII 

Butter of VIII 

Chloride of VIII 

Oxide of VIII 



NAME. CLASS. 

Aqua Fortis XiX 

Aqua Regia XIX 

Arsenic II 

Arsenite of Copper V 

Baryta XVI 

Belladonna XXV 

Bichromate of Potash XIV 

Bismuth VII 

Nitrate of , VII 

Oxide of VII 

Bitter Almonds, Oil of XVII 

Bitter-Sweet XXV 

Bloodroot XXV 

Blue Verditer V 

Blue Vitriol V 

Brandy XXII 

Brass Vessels V 

Bromine XXIII 

Bryonia XXVI 

Buckeye XXV 

Burnett's Fluid IX 

Calomel IV 

Camphor XII 



360 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



NAME. CLASS. 

Cantharis XXIV 

Carbolic Acid XVIII 

Castor-Oil Beans XXVI 

Caustic Potash XI 

Cherrv Laurel Water XVII 

Chloral XXI 

Chlorine XXIII 

Clams XXVIII 

Colchicum XX\ 

Colocynth XXVI 

Concentrated Lye XI 

Conium XX\ 

Copper V 

Arsenite of II 

Carbonate of V 

Sulphate of V 

Vessels V 

Copperas VI 

Cordials for Children XX 

Corrosive Sublimate IV 

Cotton Root XXV 

Crabs XXVIII 

Crawfish XXVIII 

Cream of Tartar XI 

Creosote XVIII 

Croton Oil XXVI 

Cubebs XXVI 

Cyanide of Potash XVII 

Digitalis XXV 

Disinfecting Fluids IX 

Dog-Button 1 

Drains, Gases from , . .XXIII 

Dulcamara XXV 

Dyes, Hair and Whisker X 

Elder XXVI 

Ergot XXV 

Exterminators XV 

Fly Paper and Powder II 

Fool's Parsley XXV 

Fowler's Solution II 

Foxglove XXV 

Gas, Bromine XXIII 

Carbonic XXIII 

Carbonic Oxide XXIII 

Charcoal XXIII 

Chlorine XXITI 

Common Coal XXIII 

Hydrochloric XXIII 

Laughing XXIII 

Nitrous XXIII 

Sulphurous XXIII 

Gelseminum XXV 

Gin XXII 

Green Vitriol. VI 

Hartshorn XI 

Hellebore XXV 



NAME. CLASS. 

Hemlock XXV 

Henbane XXV 

Hvoscvamus XXV 

Hyssop XXVI 

Indian Tobacco - .... XXV 

Indigo XXV 

I Iodide of Potash XIII 

I Iodine XIII 

Ipecacuanha XXV 

Iron, Chloride of VI 

Sulphate of VI 

Tincture of VI 

Ivy, Poison XXV 

| Timson Weed XXV 

Juniper, Oil of XXVI 

Laudanum XX 

Lead, Acetate of Ill 

Red Ill 

Sugar of Ill 

White Ill 

Leaden Pipes, etc Ill 

Lime XVI 

Liquor Ammoniae XI 

Lobelia XXV 

Locust XXV 

Lunar Caustic IX 

Matches XV 

Meats, Poisonous XXVIII 

Mercury IV 

Mines, Gases from XXIII 

Monkshood XXV 

Morphine XX 

Mountain Ash XXV 

Mushrooms XXVII 

Mussels XXVIII 

Nightshade XXV 

Nitre XII 

Nux Vomica I 

Oak, Poison XXV 

Oil of Vitriol XIX 

Oleander XXVI 

Opium XX 

Orpiment II 

Oysters XXVIII 

Paris Green II 

Parsnips XXVI 

Peach Pits XXV 

Pearlash XI 

Pearl Powder VII 

Pennyroyal XXV 

Phosphorus XV 

Pickles V 

Pink Root XXV 

Pits, Gases from XXIII 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 



301 



NAME. CLASS. 

Poke XXVI 

Poppy XXV 

Potash, Bichromate XIV 

Caustic XI 

Cvanide of XVII 

Iodide of XIII 

Nitrate of XII 

Potato Balls and Sprouts XXV 

Potato Bug or Fly XXIV 

Prussic Acid XVII 

Pulsatilla XXVI 

Quick-Silver IV 

Ratsbane II 

Realgar II 

Red Precipitate IV 

Rum XXII 

Saffron XXV 

Sal Ammoniac XI 

Saltpetre XII 

Sanguinaria XXV 

Savine, Oil of XXVI 

Scheele's Green V 

Sea Onion XXV 

Silver, Nitrate of X 

Skunk's Cabbage XXV 

Soda (Baking) XI 

Soothing Svrups XX 

Sorrel, Salt' of XIX 



NAME. CLASS. 

Spanish Fly XXIV 

Spigelia XXV 

Stramonium XXV 

Strvchnine I 

Sumac XXVI 

Tansy, Oil of XXVI 

TartaV Emetic VIII 

Thorn Apple XXV 

Toadstools XXVII 

Tobacco XXV 

Toilet Powders VII 

Verdigris V 

Vermilion IV 

Wall-Paper II 

Wells, Gases from XXIII 

Whiskey XXII 

White Precipitate IV 

White Vitriol IX 

Wild Cherries XXVI 

Wines XXII 

Wines ('Poisoned) Ill 

Wolfsbane XXV 

Yellow Jessamine XXV 

Yew. . . XXV 

Zinc, Chloride of IX 

Sulphate of IX 



I.— STRYCHNINE.— NUX VOMICA.— DOG-BUTTON. 



Symptoms. — This is one of the most rapidly fatal poisons known. In 
a very short time after it has been swallowed, distress comes on, followed 
by convulsions; screams; locking of the jaws; livid face; head and heels 
turned back; muscles of the abdomen rigid; death. The mental faculties 
are retained to the last. 

Treatment. — Give an emetic at once until the stomach is thoroughly 
cleansed. Pour cold water on the head and make alternate hot and cold 
applications on the spine. Put over the heart cloths wet in hot water and 
apply friction to the surface. If breathing is feeble or has ceased, use Arti- 
ficial Breathing, Circulation, Warmth and Strength (see "Drowning"). Be- 
fore the jaws close in convulsions, put a cork or stick between the teeth, so 
that remedies may be artificially administered if necessary. Poisoning by 
strychnine is similar to suffocation, and the artificial means for restoring res- 
piration may be efficacious some time after breathing has stopped. If con- 
vulsions have commenced before treatment has been begun, let the patient 
cautiously inhale chloroform. Large doses- of veratrum viride are also very 
highly recommended for internal treatment. 



362 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

II.— ARSENIC. 

White Arsenic, Arsenic Acid, Arsenical Wall-Paper, Fly Paper and 
Pozcaer, FozcleSs Solution, Paris Green, Ratsbane, Realgar. 

Symptoms. — Great pain and tenderness about the stomach and bowels, 
retching, vomiting of greenish or yellowish matter, perhaps blood-stained; 
thirst; hoarseness and disturbed speech; throat feels dry and tight; diarrhoea, 
with frequent desire to go to stool; urine perhaps suppressed, and burn- 
ing pain in urinary organs; clammy sweats; countenance pale and sunken, 
or painfully anxious; eyes red and bright; extremities bluish; cramps; con- 
vulsions; death in severe cases. 

Treatment. — Give emetics, method A being preferable. When the 
stomach is perfectly cleared, give a dose of castor-oil, or linseed-tea, and 
magnesia, to cleanse the bowels. Put poultices and cloths wet in hot water 
on the abdomen to relieve the inflammation that follows. 

Remarks. — White arsenic is not only taken for purposes of murder and 
suicide, but is easily mistaken for Epsom salts, magnesia, or for the plaster of 
Paris used in confectionery. Too great caution cannot be exercised about 
Paris green and the fly-poisons. Wall-paper and some fabrics for clothing 
contain enough arsenic to create serious disorders. From living or sleeping 
in a room whose walls are covered with poisonous paper, one will some- 
times have sore, smarting eyes; red, swollen, itching nose; loss of smell; 
"stuffed up" breathing; sore, ulcerated mouth, with loss of taste; dry, white 
tongue: sore, dry throat; indigestion; thirst; retching; vomiting; diarrhoea j 
irritation r.nd eruptions on the skin; rheumatic feelings; low spirits; neural- 
gia; irritability of temper; scanty urine; prostration and emaciation; symp- 
toms worse at night. After removing the exciting cause, use baths, espe- 
cially the Turkish, to throw off the poison that is in the system. Paper 
suspected of containing poison should be analyzed by a chemist. 

III.— LEAD. 

Acetate of Lead, White and Red Lead, Stigar of Lead, Water in Leaden 
Pipes and Vessels, Pood and Drinks prepared or kept in Lead- 
Glazed Vessels, Wines szveetened with Lead. 

Symptoms. — Pain in the stomach and bowels; spasms of muscles; 
nervous disorders: paralysis more or less extended; dizziness: debility; tor- 
por; convulsions; death in extreme cases. If lead is taken into the system 
slowlv and during a long period, there will be persistent colic; cramps; 
periods of ease; scanty urine: constipation; increased saliva; discolored teeth; 
anxious, depressed look. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 803 

Treatment. — At first, give whites of eggs, clear or stirred in water, 
and follow with drinks of milk; then use emetics until the stomach is 
cleansed. If whites of eggs are not at hand, use the emetics at once, and 
the eggs as soon as they can be brought. A fair substitute for the eggs is 
a thin paste of flour and water. To relieve any inflammation that may re- 
main, put on the stomach and bowels cloths wet in hot water. To rid the 
system, give iodide of potassium or epsom salts in repeated doses. For 
lead-colic, give opium, belladonna, alum, acidum sulphuris, either one at a 
time or in alternation. 

Remarks. — Be careful about using leaden pipes and vessels for food 
and drinks. If water is soft, such pipes should not be used to convey it 
from any supply. Painters, glaziers, miners, and others who are contin- 
ually exposed to this poison should frequently wash with soap and water, 
especially the hands, face and nails, avoid eating in apartments impregnated 
with lead, use drinks containing dilute acid, such as lemon-juice, and exclude 
lead from the lungs as much as possible by keeping the mouth closed or 
covered with a respirator or a cloth wet in dilute vinegar. 

IV.— MERCURY. 

Quick- Silver, Corrosive Sublimate, Red Precipitate, White Precipitate, 
Calomel, Vermilion. 

Symptoms. — Strong, nauseous metallic taste when swallowing; heat 
and pain in the stomach; vomiting, perhaps of bloody matter; heat and 
tightness in the throat; occasionally loss of speech; face sometimes pale, 
flushed at other times; stupor; convulsions; death. Salivation often ensues 
in cases of recovery. 

Treatment. — To cleanse the stomach and relieve any inflammation 
that follows, proceed as for Lead above. For salivation after recovery, give 
two drops of dilute nitric acid internally two or three times a day, and use a 
gargle of the same. Give nux vomica if there are mercurial tremor and 
paralysis. If the bowels are much disturbed, give arsenicum. Keep the 
patient warm and give all the bread and milk, soup and broths he can take. 

V.— COPPER. 

Blue Vitriol or Sulphate of Copper, Verdigris, Food cooked in Copper 
or Brass Vessels not well cleansed, Pickles made green with Copper, 
Scheele's Green, Arsenite of Copper, Blue Verditer, Carbonate of 
Copper. 

Symptoms. — These are much like those of Arsenic and Mercury, along 
with violent headache; blue or green vomit; belching with taste of copper; 



364 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cramps in the legs. Jaundice frequently comes on in this form of poison- 
ing, but seldom in others. When death occurs, which is seldom, it is pre- 
ceded by convulsions, paralysis and insensibility. 

Treatment. — The stomach should be cleansed and anv resulting in- 
flammation be relieved by the means given for Lead under III. 

VI— IRON. 
Copperas, Green Vitriol, Sulphate, Tincture a?id Chloride of Iron. 

Symptoms. —Pains in the stomach and bowels; persistent vomiting and 
purging; intense pain in the throat; "drawing" sensation in the stomach; 
weak pulse; cold skin. 

Treatment. — Same as for Lead, under III, so far as it relates to clear- 
ing the stomach and relieving inflammation. 

VII— BISMUTH. 
Pearl Pozvder, JVitrate of Bismuth, Oxide of Bis?nuth, Toilet Pozvder. 

Symptoms.— Internal inflammation; decreased or suppressed urine; 
unpleasant metallic taste; hiccough ; vomiting; cramps ; delirium ; death in 
extreme cases. 

Treatment. — Cleanse the stomach and treat inflammation as in III. 

VIII.— ANTIMONY. 

Tartar Emetic, Butter or Chloride of Antifnony, Oxide op Antimony, 

Symptoms. — Vomiting; or if this most common effect is not produced, 
pain and burning in the stomach; loose bowels; tightness in the throat; 
cramps. 

Treatment. — Give emetics until the stomach is thoroughly cleansed, 
then follow with strong tea. Magnesia in milk is good before and after the 
stomach has been cleared, as are also infusions of oak or Peruvian bark. 

IX.— ZINC 

White Vitriol or Sulphate of Ziuc, Chloride of Zinc, Disinfecting 
Fluids, such as Burnetfs. 

Symptoms. — Burning and pain in the stomach; vomiting of black fluid; 
pale face; cold extremities; rapid, unsteady pulse; feeble voice; sluggish 
bowels, with black discharges; spongv gums; palate covered with a white 
or yellowish film. 

Treatment. — Give mixtures of eggs and milk, beaten together, as 
long as they are vomited in a curdled state. Soap-suds (using clear white 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 365 

soap, if obtainable) are also efficacious, as well as milk and the carbonates 
of soda and potash. Whatever is used should be administered promptly. 
Relieve inflammation as directed for Lead under III. 

X.— SILVER. 

Nitrate of Silver {Lunar Caustic), Hair and Whisker Dyes. 

Symptoms. — In the main, like those of Arsenic. See II. 
Treatment. — Eat common salt freely, or swallow as strong a solu- 
tion of it as can be made. Treat any resulting inflammation as for Lead. 

XL— AMMONIA AND POTASH. 

Liquor Ammonice or "Hartshorn" , Sal Ammoniac or Muriate of Am- 
monia, Caustic Potash, or Concentrated Lye, Pearlash, Baking- 
Soda, Cream of Tartar. 

Symptoms. — Violent burning; biting taste; hot, raw throat; vomiting 
of bloody matter, with sharp pain in the stomach; cold sweats; weakness; 
severe colic; bloody action of the bowels; death in violent cases. 

Treatment.— Into a half-glassful of water put almost as much vine- 
gar or juice of lemons, and administer at once ; then follow with olive oil, 
four or five dessert-spoonfuls in the worst cases, and copious drinks of milk. 
Do not resort to emetics. If ammonia vapor has been inhaled in excessive 
quantities, inhale steam several hours through a tube, or from a tea-pot. 

XIL— SALTPETRE.— NITRE.— NITRATE OF POTASH. 

Symptoms. — Burning pain in the stomach; vomiting; increased flow 
of urine, perhaps with inflammation of the kidneys; great depression; death 
in somewhat rare cases. 

Treatment. — Use emetics until the stomach is thoroughly cleansed, 
and follow with drinks of milk, or rice-water or barley-water. The same 
treatment is advisable for over-doses of camphor and alum. 

XIIL— IODINE AND IODIDE OF POTASH. 

Symptoms. — Substantially as in Arsenic, under II above, though there 
is inability to vomit. 

Treatment. — For Iodine, give starch or wheat-flour beaten up in 
water, and follow with emetics until the stomach is well cleansed. For 
Iodide of Potash, use the emetics at once, without giving the starch or 
flour. Inflammation in either case should be relieved by applying to the 
stomach and bowels cloths wet in hot water. 



366 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

XIV.— BICHROMATE OF POTASH. 

Symptoms. — Mainly the same as for Arsenic, under II, with foul, per- 
sistent sores on the hands of dyers and others who use it. 

Treatment. — Give emetics; then eat magnesia or pieces of chalk. 
Relieve any resulting inflammation by applying over the painful parts cloths 
wet in hot water. Use this poison with extreme caution. 

XV.— PHOSPHORUS. 

Matches, "Exterminators" etc. 

Symptoms. — Pain and tenderness in the stomach and bowels; vomiting, 
the discharge being luminous in the dark; great thirst; diarrhoea; pain in the 
whole body; other symptoms of poisoning by Arsenic (II above). 

Treatment. — Give emetics; follow with magnesia mixed in linseed- 
tea or skimmed milk. Do not give oil of any kind. Relieve inflammation 
as directed under XIV. Keep matches out of reach of children; also various 
kinds of "exterminators" for rats and vermin. 

XVI.— LIME AND BARYTA. 

Symptoms. — Violent burning pain in the stomach; vomiting; diarrhoea, 
with gripes; weakness; headache; convulsions; death in some cases. 

Treatment. — For Lime, give a teaspoonful of baking-soda or of 
magnesia, or chalk, or shavings of soap, in a cup of milk or water. Then 
give whites of eggs and an abundance of milk. Dilute vinegar or lemon- 
juice is also an excellent means of treatment, since it neutralizes the lime. 
For Baryta and its preparations, give magnesia or chalk in a cup of milk 
or water to counteract the effects, following with whites of eggs and milk. 
Relieve inflammation as directed under XIV for Bichromate of Potash. 

XVII.— PRUSSIC OR HYDROCYANIC ACID. 
Oil of Bitter Almonds, Cherry Laurel Water, Cyanide of Potash. 

Symptoms. — Almost immediate insensibility, with or without convul- 
sions; nausea; belching, with acid taste; quick pulse; pain in head; suffoca- 
tion; death. They are very rapidly fatal. 

Treatment. — Immediately dash the coldest water procurable on the 
face, chest and head, pouring the same on the head and neck from some 
height; inhaling ammonia cautiously at the same time, with intermissions. 
Give a little soda or chloride of lime, in water. Always keep up artificial 
breathing to restore or sustain respiration. (See " Drowning.") Relieve 
inflammation as directed for Bichromate of Potash under XIV. 



MAN — EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 307 

XVIII.— CARBOLIC ACID AND CREOSOTE. 

Symptoms. — Pain in the bowels; lining of the mouth white, hard and 
"drawn"; vomiting of frothy mucus; clammy skin; heavy or loud breath- 
ing; insensibility; smell of acid; death in the worst cases. 

Treatment. — Give a teaspoonful of soda in a cup of milk or water. 
A like amount of soft soap, or of hard soap shaved off in thin flakes, may 
be given if the soda is not at hand; magnesia or chalk are also substitutes. 
Afterward, give whites of eggs and copious drinks of milk. Relieve 
inflammation as directed for Bichromate of Potash under XIV above. 

Remark. — Few of the violent poisons are so much used and so 
carelessly kept about the house, accessible to children and others, as car- 
bolic acid. It does not seem to be generally known how poisonous it is. 

XIX.— ACETIC AND OTHER ACIDS. 

Acetic, Citric, Hydrochloric, Muriatic, Nitric, Nitro -muriatic, Oxalic, 
Sulphuric and Tartaric Acids, Aqua Fortis, Aqua Regia, Oil of 
Vitriol, Salt of Sorrel. 

Symptoms. — Sour, biting taste; burning and soreness in the throat, 
perhaps with sudden ejection of the acid ; lining of the mouth " ridgy" ; if 
reaching the stomach, acute pain there with belching; scaling of the skin 
where touched by the acid; vomiting of bloody mucus; extremities clammy; 
convulsions; death. 

Aqua Fortis, or Nitric Acid, leaves yellowish stains on the parts of the 
skin or clothing which it touches. Sulphuric Acid, or Oil of Vitriol, 
leaves brownish stains and blackened teeth. Hydrochloric or Muriatic Acid 
leaves deep red stains. 

Treatment. — Give magnesia, chalk, slaked lime, powdered plaster 
scraped from the walls, or common wall-whiting, mixing them to a paste 
in water, milk, oil, or whites of eggs. Follow with gum-Arabic water, 
slippery-elm water, or starch and water. For Sulphuric Acid, use very 
little water, as it increases the activity of the acid. Treat the resulting 
inflammation as directed for Bichromate of Potash under XIV. 

Remark. — The carelessness with which some of these acids are kept 
about the house, and even in reach of children, cannot be too strongly con- 
demned. Oxalic Acid is sometimes taken by mistake for epsom salts and 
sulphate of zinc, because of its resemblance to them. The acid, however, 
as learned by touching it with the point of the tongue, is seen to be sour, 
while sulphate of zinc, or white vitriol, has a " drawing " effect, and epsom 
salts are bitter. The acid is much used in bleaching and removing stains. 



i 9 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

'XX.— OPIUM. 
Opium, Morphine* Laudanum, Soothing Syrups, Cordials for Children. 

Symptoms. — Dro T v;::;ess or apparently deep sleep; pale, sunken, or 
bloated face: closed eyes and contracted pupils; small pulse; deep, quiet 
breathing ; free perspiration ; breathing becomes slower, and later is like a 
snore; feeling grows blunted; if recovery ensues, it is preceded bv a deep 
sleep of a day or two, followed by sickness, vomiting and dizziness. 

Treatment. — Keep the patient in fresh air, and aroused bv dashing 
on the face and head water alternately hot and cold; make him constantly 
walk about, to prevent sleep, an assistant being on either side if necessarv. 
Meanwhile use emetics, by artificial swallowing if it can not be otherwise 
done. When ail poison is out of the stomach, not before, give cream of 
tartar and water, or diluted vinegar or lemon-juice, every ten or fifteen 
minutes. Do not allow the patient to sleep for a considerable time after 
this. When he does sleep, arouse him at once if he begins to snore. In 
extreme cases, if respiration is feeble or has ceased, apply and persist in 
artificial breathing i see - Drowning " i. 

Remark. — We invite special attention to our remark, under u Poison- 
ous Medicines," page 557, upon opium in popular medicines for children. 

XXI.— CHLORAL. 

Symptoms. — Faintness; gasping; pulse increasing in rapidity, even to 
a fluttering of the heart; jerking of the limbs; sinking; oppression in the 
stomach; confused mind; suffocation; great thirst; failure of muscular 
strength; hanging head; death. 

Treatment. — Keep the patient aroused as just directed for Opium. 
Give fresh air in abundance ; administer whites of eggs, or flour-and-water, 
with brandy or other stimulants in moderation. Keep the chest and limbs 
warm by friction. In severe cases, apply artificial breathing (see " Drown- 
ing "), but keep the head meanwhile lower than the feet. 

XXIL— ALCOHOL. 
Whiskey, Brandy. Wines, Gin, Rum. 

Symptoms. — Intoxication; red, swollen face; disturbed breathing: apo- 
plexv or paralysis; delirium tremens, and sometimes death; the smell of 
the liquor on the breath is a means of distinguishing the condition from 
spontaneous apoplexy. 

Treatment. — In severe cases, induce vomiting by emetics; cau- 
tiouslv inhale ammonia and, after the vomiting, drink strong coffee. 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 369 

XXIII.— GASES. 

Carbonic Acid Gas, Carbonic Oxide, Charcoal Gas, Common Coal Gas, 
Bromine, Chlorine, Nitrous Gas, Sulphurous Gas, Hydrochloric 
Gas, Laughing Gas, Gases in Drains, Privies, Wells, Mines and Pits, 

Symptoms. — Tightness and heaviness in the head; ringing in the 
ears; pungent feeling in the nose, throat or lungs, or all of them; drowsi- 
ness; difficult or suppressed breathing; unconsciousness; violent heart-action; 
real or apparent death from suffocation. 

Treatment. — Get the patient at once into the open air, put him on 
his back, loose the clothing, pour cold water on the head, neck and shoul- 
ders, and resort to artificial breathing, circulation and warmth (see " Drown- 
ing"); allow the sufferer to inhale ammonia (sparingly), camphor or 
cologne water, and take copiously of cold acid drinks, but moderately of 
stimulants. 

Remark. — The reader should carefully note our remarks and caution 
under " Suffocation by Gases " in an earlier part of this chapter. 

XXIV.— CANTHARIS. 

Spanish Fly, Potato Bug or Ply. 

Symptoms. — Biting taste; sickening odor in the breath; burning in 
throat, stomach and bowels; generally much vomiting, perhaps of bloody 
substances; bloody discharge from the bowels; intense pain in the stomach; 
suppression or retention of urine, with heat in the bladder and genitals; 
blistering and peeling off of the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat; 
in severe cases, terrible convulsions, delirium and death. 

Treatment. — If vomiting does not commence, use emetics until the 
stomach is well cleansed, then follow with a dose of Glauber's or Epsom 
salts {not oil), with internal doses of camphor to correct urinary difficul- 
ties that may remain. Relieve any inflammation that is left by applying 
cloths wet in hot water over the parts where pain is felt, especially the 
stomach and bowels. See Retention and Suppression of Urine. 

XXV.— ACONITE, BELLADONNA, AND OTHER VEGETATION. 

Aconite, Belladonna, Bitter-Sweet, Blood Root, Buckeye, Colchicum, Coni- 
um, Cotton Root, Digitalis, Dulcamara, Ergot, Poofs Parsley, Pox- 
glove, Gelseminum, Hellebore, Hemlock, Henbane, Hyoscyamus, Lndian 
Tobacco, Lndigo, Lpecacuanha, yhnson Weed, Lobelia, Locust, Monks- 
hood, Mountain Ash, Nightshade, Peach Pits, Pennyroyal, Pink 

Root, Poison Oak, Poison Vine, Poppy, Potato Balls and Sprouts, 
24 



370 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Saffron, Sanguinaria, Sea 0?tio?i, Sfoin&s Cabbage, Spigelia, Stra- 
??ioniu?n, Thorn Apple, Tobacco, Wolfsbane, Yellow yessamine, Tew, 

Symptoms. — The symptoms will necessarily vary much in these poi- 
sons, and we give only the more common ones, grouping them thus because 
the treatment is substantially the same. They are, stupor; heaviness in the 
head; numbness; desire to vomit, increasing in degree; pupil of the eve 
enlarged ; spasms in parts of the body ; pulse, at first full and strong, becomes 
variable; breathing quick; countenance anxious and dejected; in extreme 
cases, delirium and death. 

Treatment. — For Tobacco, Tew, Tellow yessamine, Ergot, Cotton 
Root, Lobelia {Indian Tobacco), Potato Balls and Sprouts, use emetics 
until the stomach is thoroughly cleansed; then put on the head and spine 
water alternately hot and cold, and give copious drinks of hot teas of some 
kind. 

For Aconite, Belladonna, and others not included in the treatment just 
named, give five or six teaspoonfuls of powdered charcoal (if it is not at 
hand, quench and pulverize a live coal from a wood fire, or powder a bone, 
burnt until it will crumble), repeating the dose if vomiting occurs. Let 
the patient cautiously inhale ammonia, and drink strong coffee or tea. 
Apply cloths to the spine wet in water alternately hot and cold, and use 
friction on the surface. Keep the patient in motion, and resort to artificial 
breathing (see "Drowning") when the respiration is very feeble or has 
ceased. Treat any resulting inflammation as for Cantharis under XXIV. 

XXVI.— BRYONIA, PULSATILLA. AND OTHER VEGETATION. 

Aloes, Bryonia, Castor- Oil Beans, Colocynth, Croto?z Oil, Cubebs, Elder 
Hyssop, ynniper Oil, yieadow Anenione, Oleander, Pars?iips {poison), 
Poke, Pulsatilla, Savine Oil, Sianac, Tansy Oil, Wild Cherries. 

Symptoms. — Biting, pungent taste, more or less bitter; dry mouth 
and throat; violent and iong-continued vomiting in many cases; loose 
bowels, with much pain at stool; pulse rapid, regular and strong; breathing 
short and hard ; pupils enlarged; apparent intoxication; in the worst cases 
the pulse grows feebler until death ensues. If applied externally, especially 
if brought into contact with a break in the skin, they cause inflammation, 
sometimes with eruptions. 

Treatment. — If vomiting has begun, keep it up; if not, use emetics 
until the stomach is cleansed; then give strong coffee or dilute vinegar. 
Apply friction and cloths wet in hot water to the extremities, chest and 
sides if they are cold, or if the vital powers are reduced. Treat any remain- 
ing inflammation as directed for Cantharis under XXI V. If respiration 



MAN EMERGENCIES AND DOMESTIC SURGERY. 871 

has become feeble, or has ceased, resort to artificial breathing as directed 
for " Drowning." 

For Croton Oil, induce vomiting with warm water, and follow with 
milk and whites of eggs. Use this oil with extreme care. 

XXVII.— MUSHROOMS.— TOADSTOOLS. 

Symptoms. — Sickness; heat and pain in the stomach and bowels; 
vomiting; loose bowels; thirst; fainting; weak, rapid pulse; cold sweats; in 
severe cases, convulsions, delirium, death. 

Treatment. — Give emetics until the stomach is cleansed, and follow 
with a dose of castor oil, or of Glauber's or Epsom salts, to cleanse the 
bowels. 

Remark. — Poisonous mushrooms, unlike the edible ones, grow in wet 
shady places, have a sickening odor and a dirty-looking exterior, are of 
various colors, sometimes very gaudy, and are softer and more porous than 
the others. Be cautious in gathering them for food. 

XXVIII.— POISONOUS MEATS. 

Crawfish^ Land Crabs, Mussels, Oysters and Clams out of season, spoiled 
or diseased, Diseased Meats of all kinds. 

vS ymptoms. — Sense of weight in the stomach ; headache and dizziness 
heat about the head and eyes; thirst; perhaps eruptions on the skin; some 
times death. 

Treatment. — Same as for Mushrooms, under XXVII. 





B2. MAIDENHOOD. 
372 




CHAPTER XII. 
THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 

SEX. 

'NDER the same circumstances the childhood of one sex, if left to 
^H| nature unrestrained, does not greatly differ from that of the other. 
It is a matter of frequent remark that the little boy and little girl 
7^" engage with like zest in the same sports, and that, though a differ- 
ence is always perceptible, the habits of the two are strikingly alike. 
After a time, however, a radical change begins in both, causing a diver- 
gence in tastes, bodily form, features, manners and pursuits. The separa- 
tion grows wider and wider each year until all those characteristics have 
been developed which distinguish the man from the woman. The playful, 
thoughtless and innocent familiarity of childhood's days gradually gives 
place to the reserve which nature and propriety impose, and which perhaps 
makes the two upon reaching maturity little less than strangers to each 
other. This transformation is the outgrowth of an inherent difference which 
does not assert itself in the early years. The nature and importance of the 
transition should be understood by all, but the present subject does not lead 
us to speak of it as it manifests itself in the male sex. 

OVULATION AND MENSTRUATION. 

In woman, the basis of the change noticed above is found in the devel- 
opment and functions of two small, firm organs, called the ovaries, in size 
and shape resembling large almonds, which are located above and at the 
sides of the womb. Each is connected with the womb bv a tube about 
four inches in length, known as the Fallopian tube. Within the ovaries are 
a great many diminutive vesicles which at their maturity contain eggs, or 
ova, one of which is necessary to the production of a new being. 

Every four weeks, with few exceptions, a vesicle bursts from its ovary 
and liberates the egg, thus effecting the function of ovulation. The egg 
thus set free traverses the Fallopian tube into the womb, and is thence ex- 
pelled and lost. This process is attended with an exudation of ordinary 

373 



374 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

venous blood through the mucous lining of the womb, known as menstrua- 
tion, the monthly flow, or the menses. 

The Mother's Advice. — In the United States the average age at which 
menstruation begins is fourteen and a half years. In some it appears earlier 
or later, according to the general physical development. Girls who are 
stimulated by the influences of society, particularly in the cities, generally 
experience it earlier than those who live in the more quiet country. Warm 
climates and rapid growth also favor early menstruation. With some the 
period is delayed until the sixteenth or eighteenth year. Whatever the age, 
it marks the era of fertility, or puberty, and its approach should be a signal 
to every mother to teach her daughter to expect the change peculiar to her 
sex, so that she may be prepared to protect herself from unnecessary expos- 
ure to cold and fatigue, and thus insure her future good health. 

"Some girls, in their ignorance and false notions, look with disgust 
upon this function and designedly or carelessly use cold baths or other 
means for suppression, and they have a life-long invalidism as a conse- 
quence." The recurrence of the menses at regular periods is one of the most 
important functions of the female organism, and it should not only never be 
interfered with but should always be most jealously guarded. However 
much good advice may be given in books of this kind to girls and young 
women, nothing can take the place of the mother's kind instruction and 
advice in warding off the excitement incident to the first appearance of this 
function and in correcting subsequent imprudence. Details upon this mat- 
ter are omitted here so -that mothers may be left with the full responsibil- 
ity of a duty which some are too prone to neglect. Besides, a sense of 
modesty makes the maiden shrink from having detailed directions upon her 
peculiar anatomy open to the eyes of all readers of a work of this nature, 
and a respect for that feeling has led the writer to pass over such details. 
Yet she would not thus ignore the urgencv of her obtaining the needed 
knowledge of herself, but would insist that she secure a suitable book, upon 
the advice of a physician or other qualified counsel, that will treat the subject 
adequately and temperately. 

Dzcration of the Menses. — The duration of the monthly period varies 
in different individuals. Though it is generally about four days, in some it 
is six or eight. While the interval between the periods averages about 
twenty-eight days, it may vary moderately in the same individual without 
causing any material disturbance. In exceptional cases, menstruation takes 
place every three weeks; in still other cases perhaps but once in six weeks; 
yet the girl or woman may enjoy good health. 

Cessation of the Menses. — Menstrual life, or the period of fertility, 
continues about thirty years. Its cessation, or, as it is commonly known, the 



THE MAID AND THE WIFE. Hlo 

"change of life," is spoken of more particularly among the disorders con- 
sidered below. It is a critical time in a woman's life. 

DELAYED MENSTRUATION. 

Though the period of the first menstruation may in some cases be 
delayed much beyond the average age, as noted above, often without induc- 
ing poor health or inconvenience, such delay becomes a subject for anxiety 
if it continues after all the external signs of womanhood have appeared. 
In the latter condition, there will be excessive languor, drowsiness, periodic 
sickness, irritability or frequent change of temper, pain in the head and 
along the spine, palpitation of the heart and shortness of the breath upon 
the slightest exertion, pain in the lower part of the bowels and between the 
thighs — all showing that nature is unsuccessfully trying to establish the 
menstrual function and is in need of some rational assistance. The cause 
of this derangement in the majority of cases is probably an original delicacy 
of constitution, or some long-standing chronic affection. Oftentimes it will 
be found that the disturbances supposed to be due to delayed menstruation 
really arise from deficient or innutritious food, or from sedentary habits. 
Tardy menstruation also occurs in girls who are predisposed to any form of 
consumption. Sometimes it is attended with an exudation of blood 
through the mucous surfaces of the respiratory passages, and the spitting or 
vomiting of blood naturally causes alarm. 

Treatment. — In the treatment it is best to first ascertain whether 
there be any structural cause, any lack of development, or any deformity of 
the organs of generation. If the physician, upon an examination, finds no 
mechanical obstruction, remedies may be given as here directed. 

Iron in some form is a leading remedy when absence of men- 
struation is associated with debility, languor, palpitation, indigestion, and 
sickly complexion. Phosphorus is useful for persons of delicate constitu- 
tions and sensitive lungs, and for those in whom expectoration of blood in 
small quantities takes the place of the menstrual discharge, with cough and 
pains in the chest. Give iodine or iodide of potassa to scrofulous patients 
with enlarged glands and a lymphatic constitution. Calcarea carbon- 
ica is suited to constitutions similar to those needing iodine, but with chronic 
indigestion, heartburn and hysteria. Calcarea phosporica is an excellent 
remedy when the patient has a confirmed cough, with hectic hoarseness, 
emaciation and debility. Scrofulous patients troubled with leucorrhcea and 
itching of the genital organs are benefited by sulphur. Pulsatilla is 
indicated by delayed, suppressed, or irregular menstruation; pains in the 
abdomen and loins; hysterical symptoms; nausea; vomiting; palpitation of 



376 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the heart; loss of appetite ; deranged digestion; pale face; lassitude; chilli- 
ness; headache. If the patient has light complexion, fair hair, and a timid, 
easily vexed, yet uncomplaining disposition, this medicine is the more clearly 
indicated. Nux vomica may be preferable to pulsatilla when the patient is 
of a vehement disposition or dark complexion, and when there is much dis- 
turbance of the digestive organs, with constipation. 

Delayed menstruation is often the consequence of exposure to cold or 
of defective circulation on the surface, which warm clothing would obviate. 
Regular exercise in the open air, good wholesome diet, avoiding all stimu- 
lating drinks, and cheerful, happy surroundings will contribute to the estab- 
lishing of this function which is most important in the health and happiness 
of every young woman. Cases of such delay should never be neglected. 

EXCESSIVE MENSTRUATION.— MENORRHAGIA. 

Those who are robust and plethoric can bear a much greater discharge 
without injury than those of delicate, relaxed constitutions. Hence, no 
definite rule as to quantity can be given. The monthly loss however 
should never be such as to cause debility and general ill health. Regular 
excessive monthly discharge, profuseness being the only fault complained 
of, points to some grave constitutional disorder. The causes may be local 
or general, as chronic or acute inflammation; polypi; tumors; malignant dis- 
ease of the womb; some acute or chronic general disease, as tubercular 
deposits or disease of the kidneys; prolonged mental trouble; too confining 
or unhealthy occupation; luxurious living. It is not unusual for a case of 
difficult menstruation to become one of profuse menstruation. 

Treatment. — If an impoverished state of the blood is the cause of 
the excessive flow, this condition must be corrected by good diet, pure air, 
and residence in a healthy climate. Severe and persistent cases are most 
benefited by a temporary residence on the sea-coast. The daily use of the 
hip-bath, taken under favorable conditions and followed by friction for sev- 
eral minutes, will relieve the defective activity of the skin which so often 
co-exists with this disorder. 

Give ergot in five-drop doses every four hours if the discharges are 
fetid, dark-colored, with frequent labor-like pains; feeble constitu- 
tion. Ipecac is efficacious for nausea ; bright-red flooding ; and when the 
period occurs every two or three weeks, attended with pressure in the 
region of the womb. 

The state of the system which induces menorrhagia is such that it 
usually needs china, or some other preparation of Peruvian bark, and 
this remedy can generally be used alone or in connection with others; it is 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 377 

indicated by excessive weakness from the great loss of blood, with a tend- 
ency to perspiration, swelling of the lower extremities, buzzing in the ears 
and faintness, and is especially useful after the profuse discharge has ceased, 
in the periods between the menses, as a part of the constitutional treatment. 
It should be given in doses of five to ten drops of the tincture three or four 
times a day during the interval between menstruation. Elixir of iron and 
Calisaya bark, a teaspoonful three times a day, is an excellent preparation. 
[Hydrastis, twenty drops of the tincture three times a day, will cure 
the most severe cases. — Hale.] 

SUPPRESSED MENSTRUATION.— AMENORRHCEA. 

Suppression, if not a symptom of pregnancy, is generally due to ex- 
posure to cold, damp feet, violent emotions, fright, and the like. Sudden 
suppression causes the most acute pain, but a chronic form is far more seri- 
ous and points to some constitutional disease. 

Treatment. — If the menses are suddenly suppressed during the pe- 
riod, the sufferer should immediately be placed in a hip-bath, the water being 
more than simply warm, some cases needing it as hot as can be endured. 
Then she should retire to a warmed bed. A few doses of aconite should 
be given at short intervals; also copious drinks of cold water. The success 
of this treatment depends upon the promptness with which it is adopted. 
Xanthoxylum will relieve cases attended with severe, cramp-like pains in 
the ovaries, five to ten drops of the tincture being taken as the dose. Cimi- 
cifuga is an excellent remedy when suppression results from a cold, and may 
be given in alternation with aconite, five to ten drops every two or four 
hours. [Pulsatilla, two drops of tincture every twelve hours. — Hale.] 

Chronic suppression is generally observed among the early symptoms of 
consumption in girls and women; the secretion becomes less and less until 
it is completely checked. The cause of the suppression and the co-existing 
impairment of the general health should be carefully sought out and re- 
moved if possible. All hygienic rules should be scrupulously observed, and 
everything that is calculated to give constitutional vigor should be resorted 
to. In expecting a return of the menstrual discharge, the exercise of pa- 
tience is sometimes necessary, as the general health is often greatly improved 
before this function is re-established. 

PAINFUL MENSTRUATION.— DYSMENORRHCEA. 

Menstruation should be painless, but there are abnormal conditions 
which make it exceedingly painful in some, and measurably so in other?. 



378 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

These conditions have been called by physicians neuralgic, congestive, in- 
flammatory, and obstructive. 

The neuralgic form, as its name indicates, affects persons inheriting a 
nervous temperament. It may also occur where the development of the 
pelvic organs is incomplete, or it may result from adhesions being formed 
and a nerve becoming impinged. The pain will usually come before the 
flow, and may be elsewhere than in the pelvis, often in the head, and as 
often in one of the ovaries. Those who suffer from this form are weak and 
pale, giving evidence of a deficient supply of blood. The frequent applica- 
tion of the galvanic current for several successive months is a good stimu- 
lant. A change of diet, life in the open air and sunshine, or a change of 
climate, especially from cold to warm, will do wonders in toning up the 
general health and relieving the sufferer. 

The congestive form is an attendant of congested liver. Cold is the 
most common cause; it may also arise from sudden emotion, deviations and 
displacements of the womb, possibly tumors or polypi. There is pain in 
the bladder and rectum, with bearing-down; restlessness; headache. If 
caused by cold, the patient should use warm hip-baths before the time for 
the flow, .and keep quiet and warm. If displacement be the cause of the 
pain, replacement will often give the desired relief. 

The inflammatory form depends upon a diseased condition of the lin- 
ing membrane of the womb; the pain is dull, heavy, persistent, usually 
begins before the flow, and continues as long as it lasts, and even five or six 
days after it has ceased; the blood is apt to be clotted, and there will be 
membranous shreds and fragments mixed with the discharge. Those who 
suffer from this form will experience pain while walking. Such cases are 
curable, but time, opportunity, and a full determination to regulate the life 
and habits with entire reference to such results, will be required. The gal- 
vanic current to stimulate the muscles is excellent. Massage, or the passive 
movements of the muscles, would have a tendency to divert the blood from 
the diseased pelvic organs to other parts of the body and thus relieve. 
Swedish movements, judiciously given, would act in a similar maimer. 

The obstructive form depends upon an impediment in the uterine cav- 
ity, causing a diminution of the body or neck of the womb. It may exist 
at birth or be acquired by the application of strong caustics, or by falling in 
childhood upon some sharp object. Now and then parturition is followed 
by sloughing and constriction of the tubes. A polypus of the neck of the 
womb may produce an obstruction, and a tumor will occasionally be in the 
way. Let the obstruction be what it may, the menstrual fluid must ulti- 
mately be discharged. 

We see that painful menstruation may be due to local causes or to a 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 379 

general one, as debility for example. When the symptoms do not yield 
readily to the use of one or more of the following remedies it is best to 
consult a skillful physician and have a thorough examination of all the pel- 
vic organs. 

Treatment. — Cimicifuga exerts a specific influence on the womb and 
gives great relief, more especially in nervous and rheumatic persons. Bella- 
donna is most suitable to women of a fleshy habit and great mental activity, 
with flow of blood to the brain; throbbing headache; redness of face; dim- 
ness of vision; violent pain in the back. Give aconite for menstrual colic, 
with spasmodic pain; heat in the head; cold feet from disturbances of the 
circulation. Gelseminum is indicated by simple spasmodic cases of difficult 
menstruation. Nux vomica is the best remedy for obstinate constipation 
and accumulations of faeces in the rectum, causing pressure on the neck of 
the womb and so rendering the escape of the menstrual fluid difficult and 
painful; frequent desire to urinate; paroxysms of pressing and drawing pain. 
Flatulence and symptoms as of piles often attend this variety of the dis- 
ease. 

Pulsatilla is valuable for scanty menses attended with cutting pains in 
the uterine region and back, which move from one point to another; loss of 
appetite; chilliness; vertigo. This remedy is especially suited to females of 
light complexion and mild disposition. Ergot is called for by labor-like 
pains at the time of the appearance of the menses, these being discharged 
with great agony, cutting pains in the bladder or rectum, pale face, cold 
sweat, and indistinct, flagging pulse. Viburnum opulus, or cramp-bark, has 
long had a reputation in the domestic treatment of this disorder and was 
used by the aborigines. It is indicated by severe cramp-like pains preced- 
ing or accompanying the menstrual flow, and should be given in doses of five 
to ten grains every one or two hours until relief is obtained. The follow- 
ing prescription will be useful in many cases: 

Tincture viburnum, i ounce. 

Tincture xanthoxylum i ounce. 

Mix. Take fifteen drops twice a day during the interval between the 
menstrual period, and the same dose every two hours during the first day of 
the appearance of the menses, or until pain ceases. Scutellaria, fifteen to 
twenty drops every two hours, will often relieve when the pain is intense. 

During the period, great relief will be experienced by applying hot 
bottles, or flannels wrung out in hot water, to the lower part of the abdo- 
men, or by a warm hip-bath in which the patient may remain for twenty or 
thirty minutes. When the disorder is the result of mechanical constriction 
of the uterine canal, means should be taken to remove such trouble. This 



380 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

can be done only by a skillful physician; and, if medicinal treatment fails 
to relieve the sufferer, no sense of modesty should stand in the way of an 
early application to one, with a purpose to adopt his advice and treatment. 
[Caulophyllum, in doses of one-tenth to one-eighth grain, is far supe- 
rior to ergot for the same symptoms. It should be taken three times a day 
for a week before the expected menses and every two hours during the pain. 
All remedies for painful menses should be taken thus, a week or two prev- 
ious to the period. Hydrastis tincture, in twenty-drop doses three times a 
day through the month, has been found very successful. The most severe 
cases of dysmenorrhcea I have ever seen were cured by tincture of Indian 
hemp (cannabis Indica), five drops three times a day for three days before 
and every three hours during the pain. — Hale.] 

LEUCORRHCEA.— WHITES. 

Few women are entirely free from this malady, which may be called a 
simple catarrh of the female generative organs, with a variety of causes, 
and being either constitutional or local, sometimes both. Any habit or dis- 
order which debilitates the constitution or lowers the tone of health is likely 
to be accompanied sooner or later with a leucorrhceal discharge. Colds, 
congestion, sedentary habits, scrofulous constitution, profuse menstruation, 
too frequent confinements, excessive intercourse, abnormal growths in the 
womb, as polypi and tumors, want of cleanliness, and worms are some of 
the more common causes. The disorder occurs between the ages of pu- 
berty and the cessation of the menses. There is also a variety, called infan- 
tile leucorrhoea, that occurs in scrofulous children, caused by a sudden check 
of perspiration, exposure to cold, manual irritation, worms, infected sponges, 
and like agencies. Mild cases may exist for years without giving rise to 
any very marked symptoms. Yet it should not be neglected, for it is possi- 
ble to be entirely free from it. 

Treatment. — Calcarea carbonica is needed in those cases following 
too profuse and too frequent menstruation; discharge of a milky appear- 
ance, worse just before the menses and just after; women who are weakly 
and scrofulous; chronic leucorrhoea; for children, the discharge being milky. 
Give china or Calisaya bark after debilitating diseases which have pro- 
duced leucorrhoea. When indigestion and debility co-exist, with abrasion 
or ulceration on the surface of the parts, hydrastia should be administered; it 
should also be used locallv, a half-teaspoonful of the extract to an ounce of 
water. Mercurius will be found efficacious for sallow complexion; cold 
feet; backache; profuse menstruation; discharge yellowish and containing 
matter-like pus. Pulsatilla is useful when the discharge is a thick, white 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 381 

mucus, corrosive, and a cause of itching; also when occurring in girls who 
have not menstruated, or in pregnant women. Sepia is an excellent medi- 
cine, and is suitable for yellow, greenish, or fetid discharge; delicate, un- 
healthy skin; backache; bearing-down pains; constipation. In low states of 
the system iron or quinine will be serviceable in toning up the system. 

Constipation is a fruitful cause and in all cases the bowels should be 
kept in a normal condition; but the continued use of purgatives cannot be 
condemned in too strong terms. Proper diet, exercise, and cold sponging 
of the back and loins will relieve the constipation. 

Pinus Canadensis, applied to the vaginal walls and neck of the womb 
after the free use of hot water with a fountain syringe, will cure the worst 
cases. This may be used in the following manner : — Take one part of extract 
of pinus Canadensis and two parts of glycerine; mix thoroughly; apply to 
the parts with a camel' s-hair brush, or with a pledget of absorbent cotton. 
Bichromate of potash will also be found an excellent local application: 
Take one teaspoonful of the crystals and three ounces of water; mix and 
dissolve; after washing the vagina with hot water, take of this solution one 
teaspoonful in two ounces of water and inject into the vagina. 

It is claimed that leucorrhcea in the mother is a prolific source of scrof- 
ula in the child, that the foetus is insufficiently nourished, and, after birth, 
convulsions, hydrocephalus and scrofulous marks present themselves. It is 
doubtless true that a profuse or long-continued discharge from the mother 
may occasion a debilitated condition in the child which will be favorable to 
the development of scrofula, but it cannot be true that leucorrhcea 
will always be followed by appreciable effects in the child. If it were, few 
children would be free from scrofula. 

[Leucorrhcea in a pregnant woman at the time of confinement is often 
a cause of inflammation of the eyes of the new-born child. The mother 
should use for a week previous to labor a vaginal injection three times a day 
of the following mixture : 

Borax, i teaspoonful. 

Fluid Hydrastis, i teaspoonful. 

Warm water, i quart. — Hale.] 

CHLOROSIS— GREEN-SICKNESS. 

The characteristic color of the skin has given the name "green-sick- 
ness" to a disease which occurs especially in young women between the 
ages of fifteen and twenty-five. Unlike the pallor of other forms of ill- 
ness, the skin has a greenish-white appearance; the face becomes puffy; 
there are dark circles surrounding the eyes; the lids are swollen; the lips are 



382 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

very pale; respiration, digestion, and circulation are much disturbed; the 
pulse is usually, not invariably, slower and weaker than in health ; palpita- 
tion is not uncommon, but the most marked symptom in the circulation is 
the continuous humming, cooing sound to be heard over the region of the 
heart and the large vessels of the neck. The gastric disturbances are very 
serious; there is loss of appetite, with unnatural craving for such articles as 
chalk, slate pencils, and the like; the breath is very offensive; persistent 
vomiting and even vomiting of blood sometimes occur, indicating ulceration 
of the stomach. 

Chlorosis seldom exists without menstrual irregularities, either suppres- 
sion or retention, with profuse leucorrhoea. The mental and nervous con- 
ditions are especially prominent. The subjects of this affection are gen- 
erally of the lymphatic temperament and become listless, dull and melan- 
choly. It is most common among the higher classes of society. The pre- 
disposing causes are confinement in poorly ventilated, imperfectly lighted, 
or shaded rooms; chronic inflammation of the intestinal canal; enlargement 
of the glands connected with the intestines; abnormal excitation of the 
sexual organs; uterine or ovarian disease; innutritious food. 

Treatment. — Give arsenicum for extreme debility; puffiness of the 
eyelids; swelling of the feet; morbid craving. When there is a tendency to 
scrofula or consumption, with glandular enlargements, calcarea carbonica is 
indicated. Phosphoric acid is valuable for great debility; listlessness and 
apathy; night sweats; leucorrhoea; especially if chlorosis is due to continued 
abnormal excitation of the sexual organs. Scanty or absent menses, loss 
of taste or appetite, tendencv to relaxed bowels, and a weeping mood are 
best treated with pulsatilla. The advertised "sure cures" all contain iron in 
some form; while iron is undoubtedly efficacious in some cases, its indiscrimi- 
nate use must not be countenanced, and it is to be given only under advice and 
its effects are then to be carefully watched. It will be found most useful 
when the disorder is attended with poor appetite; scanty or absent menses, 
with a pale or watery discharge. It is especially suited to scrofulous persons. 

[The two best preparations of iron for use in chlorosis are Warner Sc 
Co.'s " Chalybeate Pills" and Chapman & Green's " Iron, Digitalis and 
Wild Cherry." If there be great nervousness, twitching, hysterical actions, 
faintness, sighing, etc., give ignatia, one drop of the tincture before meals 
and the iron after meals. — Hale.] 

Accessories to the above remedies are good, nourishing food, as milk, 
oysters, beefsteak, brown bread, and the like. Exercise in the open air, sun- 
baths, sea-water baths, cold bathing, commencing with a tepid bath and 
gradually lowering the temperature, deep breathing, and watchfulness 
against all pernicious habits are of much importance and value. 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 383 

HYSTERIA.— HYSTERICS. 

Hysteria is a nervous disease of either a local or general origin, 
marked by a morbid sensibility of the nervous system and due to a variety 
of causes. It is almost entirely confined to women and girls, and is very 
often associated with uterine difficulties. It may be brought on by any of 
various functional disturbances, or may be caused by prolonged worry, undue 
study, loss of friends, sleeplessness, unusual continuance of the secretion of 
milk, disappointed affections, in short, whatever jars upon the sensitive na- 
ture of the girl or woman. The male sex is not entirely exempt, although 
the word hysteria, signifying a womb, implies that it is peculiar to the female, 
the ancient belief being that there was some connection between that or- 
gan and the various phenomena known as hysteria. The symptoms are 
multitudinous. Sometimes the closest medical observ er is unable to detect 
any functional disturbance. The element of exaggeration enters so largely 
into the hysterical constitution that suffering which would be slight in a less 
sensitive temperament is greatly magnified. The fanciful nature of the 
hysterical patient's suffering may sometimes be demonstrated by simply di- 
verting the attention from the part complained of and then causing firm pres- 
sure or movement; this will be borne without complaint, when otherwise it 
would have been " agonizing in the extreme." 

The most common types of this disease occur in young girls who have 
grown rapidly and studied hard at the same time, leaving the nervous sys- 
tem quite exhausted. They laugh immoderately, cry easily, and suffer from 
indigestion, palpitation and backache. Some have palpitations, flushings, 
and sometimes loss of voice for days and weeks at a time; when these at- 
tacks last longer than usual, the wind rises in the throat and a sensation as 
of a ball fixed there is experienced until relieved by a crying fit and the 
discharge of a large quantity of almost colorless urine. Other cases arise in 
those who are constitutionally delicate, and made more so by being con- 
stantly reminded of the fact by unwise friends who pet, indulge and caution 
the girl until she thinks her every ache and pain of consequence enough to 
call the whole family to sympathize with her. A paroxysmal form of 
hysteria may be caused by some real or imaginary grievance; the patient 
will fall, with an apparent loss of consciousness and all voluntary power; the 
breathing may be irregular and the eyes be partially closed; the patient 
seems to be in a dangerous condition. Unlike epileptic fits, the attacks are 
not followed by profound sleep. Much anxiety or alarm, or even an expres- 
sion of sympathy from friends and attendants, usually aggravates all the 
conditions. The patient seems to delight in frightening others by simulat- 
ing various alarming symptoms. 



3^ COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Loose the clothing and give plenty of fresh air. Dash 
cold water on the face and neck. Pour water from a large vessel, lifted to a 
considerable height, upon the mouth and nose to effect a spasmodic opening 
of the mouth and the taking of a full breath. In dashing water on the face 
and neck, use it in large quantities applied with considerable force. 

Belladonna and chamomilla are the best internal remedies during the 
paroxysm, especially if the face is very red. Asafoetida is efficacious for 
cases arising from bilious disturbance; distension of the abdomen; high- 
coiored urine with a strong smell; sensation as of a ball rising in the throat. 
The odor from a piece of asafoetida placed under the nose has relieved the 
spasm. When hysteria is attended with congestive headache, excessive 
menstrual discharge and melancholy, aurura will be found of value. Cim- 
icifuga, in doses of five to ten drops, is useful for hysteria associated with 
uterine disturbance; mental restlessness; irritability; despondencv; sinking 
at the stomach. Ignatia will relieve hysteric convulsions with the sensa- 
tion of a ball in the throat; great difficulty in swallowing; hysteria from 
disappointment, mortification, or any other intense mental excitement. 
Moschus is invaluable for hysterical attacks of fainting; small, fluttering 
pulse; flushed face followed by paleness and excessive sweats on the head; 
great anxiety ; coldness of the surface. Moschus and camphor are both 
especially effective during a paroxysm and often cut it short, but they are of 
no service between the attacks. Xux vomica is the best remedy when hys- 
teria is attended with constipation, flatulence, hiccough, distension and pain 
in the stomach, headache, giddiness, and faintness. Use valerian in fifteen- 
drop doses for hysterical spasm occurring chieflv in the evening; "lumps in 
the throat;" clear, profuse and watery urine; great emotion; tendencv to cry. 
Bromide of soda or potassa will often relieve at once; a dose of ten to 
twentv grains may be given at intervals of two to five hours until relieved. 
[To relieve a persistent spasm of any kind, grasp the big toe of the patient 
and bend it strongly downward toward the sole of the foot. It will cause 
the most powerful spasm (hysteric) to relax in less than a minute. — Hale.] 

Between the spasms much may be done to give a healthier tone to the 
system by cheerful society, regular exercise in the open air, useful employ- 
ment, avoidance of occupation that favors meditation, and removal from the 
surroundings that have been favorable to the development of the disease. 
Send the girl away from home and throw her somewhat upon her own 
resources. Petting and injudicious expressions of sympathy do much harm. 
All stimulants should be avoided, as well as late hours in crowded, brilliantly 
lighted, overheated rooms, novel reading, all undue excitement of the emo- 
tions. Professional counsel should be sought to ascertain whether there are 
any local exciting causes and to remove any that exist. 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 385 

FALLING OF THE WOMB. 

Falling of the womb consists in a descent of this organ in different degrees, 
from simple " bearing down " upon the upper portion of the vagina to 
complete protrusion of the organ from the vaginal canal. It is most liable 
to occur in married women beyond middle life, but is often found in 
young unmarried persons of relaxed constitutions. The symptoms are nu- 
merous and vary in different cases; those most commonly present are bearing- 
down sensations in the vagina; dragging and aching pains in the small of 
the back, around the loins and hips; frequent sensations as if everything 
would escape from the vagina, with a consequent tendency to put the legs 
as close together as possible when standing; a whitish, mucous discharge; 
menstruation often increased, sometimes diminished; frequent desire and 
often inability to urinate; nervousness; irritability; indigestion; constipa- 
tion. These symptoms are aggravated by standing, walking, and lifting, 
while the horizontal position gives relief. 

The immediate exciting causes of this displacement are injury from 
some sudden fall; hard lifting; straining; jumping; improper dressing; 
severe exertion during menstruation; indigestion; sexual excesses; getting 
up too soon after child-birth, while the womb is larger than usual and its 
support is weakened by parturition. There is abundant reason for believing 
that improper dressing is one of the most fruitful causes of falling of the 
womb, as well as many more of the diseases which affect the pelvic organs. 
Garments too tightly fitting and arranged for continuous and uniform pres- 
sure can hardly fail to aggravate the diseased condition where already 
existing, and are peculiarly favorable to the production of many of the 
diseases in the contents of the pelvis. The regular motions caused by res- 
piration, of which the diaphragm is the central force, extend in both directions, 
downward as well as upward, producing a wave-like movement through 
the entire contents of the trunk. This is necessary not merely to the organs 
of respiration, but the digestive organs require the gliding action of the 
contiguous parts upon each other to perform their functions readily and 
completely. This movement stimulates nutrition and aids the progress of 
digesting matters in their passage along the canal, as described in the anatomy 
and physiology of Chapter IV. It also promotes the absorption of digested 
products by the veins and lacteals. The contents of the pelvis likewise 
require the influence of this motion. This pump-like action of the respiratory 
organs extending to the pelvic contents, as it always should, has the effect 
of relieving it of the otherwise continuous pressure and weight of the 
abdominal organs. The interruption of this motion will sooner or later 
result in disease. It is then a matter of the gravest importance that there 
25 



386 • COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

should be no hindrance or external resistance to this spontaneous action, this 
deep abdominal breathing so necessary especially to the health of every 
woman. 

The mechanical effect of compression can easily be illustrated by means 
of a common rubber bag containing air. If this be pressed between the 
thumb and finger the part most distant from the pressure becomes most 
distended and thin. If the pressure be increased, a rupture occurs. Now 
precisely similar is the effect of pressure upon the central portion of the body ; 
the greatest tension is felt at the end of the cavity of the pelvis. Tight 
clothing and corsets make a continuous downward pressure, to which is 
added the weight of heavy skirts hung upon the hips, not only preventing 
this undulating respiratory movement, but also causing a descent of the dia- 
phragm upon the bowels, which in their turn press down upon the womb, 
compelling this organ to double upon itself, or turn backward or forward, 
or go straight down and out. We thus have what is commonly known as 
falling of the womb, retroversion, or flexion, sometimes with ulceration or 
inflammation. The prevailing style of high heels for the shoes is also prej- 
udicial and a cause of displacement of the womb. The effect of unnaturally 
raising the heels and stretching the insteps is to bend the knees forward and 
hips backward, necessitating an inclination of the trunk; this presses the 
abdomen down upon the contents of the pelvis. 

Treatment. — It goes without saying that the most important thing 
to do in a case of falling of the womb is to remove all pressure from above. 
Loose the corsets; wear shoulder-straps on all the skirts; breathe deeplv; 
if the case is recent, take the horizontal posture, with the hips elevated. 
It is not desirable to remain long in bed, for the reason that the general 
health will suffer from lack of fresh air and exercise; sometimes a support 
introduced through the vagina will be necessary. It will give temporary 
relief, but it should be accurately fitted, be worn only a few weeks at a time, 
never be resorted to except upon medical advice, and always be discontinued 
if it causes irritation and nervousness. 

[Belladonna, one drop three times a day, is efficacious when there is a 
feeling as if the womb would be pressed out of the body, with soreness of 
the lower bowels, especially when walking or coughing. Sepia is useful 
in all displacements with the usual symptoms of bearing-down pain in back, 
sinking in stomach, leucorrhoea, etc., a dose three times a day. — Hai.e.] 

Nux vomica is useful when a displacement is attended with a constant 
dribbling of urine; indigestion, flatulence, piles, constipation with straining 
at stool and the passage of lumps of hardened faeces; pain in the back; 
pressing pain over the hips. 

Since this difficulty often results from a debilitated state of the system, 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 387 

tonics and other means of building up the strength will afford relief. Con- 
stipation produces or attends a majority of cases and should be thoroughly 
treated, for which purpose the reader is referred to the article on Constipa- 
tion in a previous chapter. Again, such displacements often follow child- 
bearing, being caused by laceration or tearing of the perineum, the floor of 
the pelvis. When such is the case, a bandage that fits the abdomen closely 
and is secured by a band passing between the limbs should be worn. A 
pad may be attached to the band in such a way as to press on these parts 
and raise them up. Such mechanical treatment is only temporary and is to 
be stopped when a surgeon is secured to perform the requisite operation. 
[Lilium tigrinum, or tiger lily, is an excellent remedy for uterine dis- 
placements with ovarian pains, ten drops of the tincture being put into a 
half-glassful of water, and a teaspoonful of this being taken every three 
hours, or ore of the flowers in a teacupful of hot water, a teaspoonful of the 
decoction being taken every three hours after it cools. — Hale.] 

INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB. 

This disorder may take place in any adult female, and is not infre- 
quently a serious complication of pregnancy and child-birth. It may be 
acute or chronic. The ultimate and common tendency of inflammation of 
the deep-seated tissues of the body and neck of the womb is ulceration. 
An attack may commence with a chill, followed by fever, great thirst, 
nausea, vomiting, sometimes diarrhoea, perhaps vain desire to evacuate the 
bowels; irritable bladder; throbbing in the vicinity of the womb, the latter 
being swollen and painful; the recumbent posture is a necessity, as sitting 
aggravates the pain ; the disease sometimes assumes a typhoid character and 
there is excessive prostration, with a dirty-yellow coated tongue. The 
causes of inflammation are exposure to cold, especially during the menstrual 
period; sitting on cold or damp objects, as stone steps and grass; sexual ex- 
cesses ; suppression of the menses; mechanical irritation, as a too long use 
of appliances to support the womb It also follows abortion, and may be 
caused by the use of cold water injections into the vagina immediately after 
coition. 

Treatment. — Aconite and belladonna should be administered in 
alternation every hour upon the approach of the disorder; as improvement 
sets in, these two remedies may be given less often. After the inflamma- 
tory symptoms have subsided, mercurius is useful in completing the cure. 
Nux vomica is invaluable if there be constipation, bearing-down, and desire 
to go to stool. Sepia will be efficacious if leucorrhcea follows, with urine 
scanty and passed with pain and irritation. The diet should be very simple 



388 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and unstimulating, with cooling drinks. In the first stages, a hot sitz-bath 
may be used for ten to twenty minutes, a cold wet cloth being meanwhile 
kept on the head, the feet being at the same time in a tub of warm 
water. 

When this disease is not promptly attended to and cured, it runs into a 
chronic condition; the patient shows a general loss of health and strength; 
there is ape to be a yellowish, greenish discharge from the womb that is 
more or less offensive in odor; the body of the womb is intolerant of pres- 
sure; the ovaries and Fallopian tubes are more or less diseased; there is 
chronic ulceration of the neck of the womb, and its lining membrane is 
more or less diseased and is thrown off in shreds and pieces. Nothing but 
thorough, skillful treatment, local and constitutional, can offer any hope of 
a permanent cure. Hence, none but those who are experienced in such dis- 
orders should attempt the treatment of this kind of inflammation. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE OVARIES.— OVARITIS. 

The exciting causes of this disease are somewhat obscure; generally it 
is sympathetic with inflammation of the womb, or it may be caused by a 
cold, by coition during the menstrual flow, or by strong medicines applied 
to the womb. Only one ovary is inflamed at a time. 

The acute form sets in with sudden pains in the region of one or the 
other ovary; more commonly the pains are dull and indefinite, stinging and 
burning, and aggravated bv hard pressure ; no swelling can be felt. The 
pain extends to the thigh, which feels numb and is made worse by motion. 
There is but little fever, but various nervous derangements set in similar to 
hysteria, even overpowering sexual desires and vomiting may occur. Only 
in rare cases does it terminate in suppuration. 

If no dispersion takes place, the inflammation becomes chronic. In 
this form a swelling can be felt externally, associated with tenderness on 
pressure and violence of pain just previous to and during the menses, or 
during pregnancy and confinement. An acute attack rarely lasts longer 
than eight days and generally subsides within twenty-four hours. The 
unfavorable cases that become chronic may terminate in the formation of 
serous cysts, a hard lump, or in suppuration. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for headache, backache, colic, fever, great 
restlessness and tossing about; after exposure to cold winds, or a sudden 
fright during the monthly period, by which the flow ceases; and for painful 
urging to urinate and to evacuate the bowels. It will lessen the fever and 
relieve the inflammation. Give belladonna for hard swelling of the ovary, 
with stitching and throbbing pain; constant bearing-down, as if everything 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 389 

would come out; fever; perspiration; glistening eyes, red face and delirium; 
soreness over the whole abdomen, with bloating. 

Hamamelis is a superior local application for the relief of pain, es- 
pecially if the inflammation arises from a blow or strain. It should be ap- 
plied to the abdomen by means of cloths wet in the extract, being as hot as it 
can be borne. Hot fomentations of various kinds are useful, as are also 
poultices of linseed-meal, hops, bran, and other materials. 

OVARIAN TUMORS OR CYSTS. 

The most of these tumors or cysts originate in a degeneration of the 
follicles which supply the secretions to the mucous membrane of the ovary. 
They become distended, sometimes being as large as a child's head, and one 
or several may be formed. They are filled with a clear, yellowish, serous 
or thick fluid. The symptoms in the first stage may be identical with those 
of ovaritis mentioned above, but usually all such manifestations are wanting 
and the cysts cause no inconvenience as long as they remain small. When 
they attain a certain size, however, they produce a pressure upon the blad- 
der and rectum, causing difficulty in urination and the action of the bowels. 
Pressure upon the nerves which run down on the back part of the pelvis 
causes pain in the small of the back, or pain and numbness in the lower ex- 
tremities; pressure upon the veins induces swelling or varicose veins. At 
the same time, in some cases there will be a swelling of the breasts, a dark- 
ening of the ring about the nipples, sympathetic vomiting and general bad 
feeling, resembling very closely the experiences in the beginning of preg- 
nancy. When the cysts grow larger they. rise oat of the pelvic cavity and 
give some slight relief from pressure. As they continue to grow they 
gradually fill up the abdominal cavity and press upon the diaphragm, the 
consequence being shortness of breath, palpitation of the heart, deficient 
nutrition, vomiting, and general wasting of flesh and strength. 

Treatment. — This difficulty belongs to the field of surgery and its 
management should be entirely under the care of one of experience. To 
relieve the disorders which result from it, such as pain and disturbance of 
various functions of the body, medicines may be of service, but the reader 
will find their indications in the articles respectively devoted to them. 
When the tumor has reached a certain size and the health becomes impaired, 
an operation should be performed. Within the past few years great 
advance has been made in this department of surgery and comparatively 
few cases result unfavorably when skillful hands are applied. It may not 
be amiss here to say that a condition of pregnancy has occasionally been 
mistaken for tumor, and vice versa. 



390 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

CESSATION OF THE MENSES.— CHANGE OF LIFE. 

In every healthy woman menstrual life continues for about thirty 
years. If menstruation began at twelve years of age, then it would cease 
at forty-two; if at fifteen, not far from forty-five. Cessation with some is at 
fifty or later; exceptional cases occur as early as thirty. Notwithstanding 
the change is in accordance with nature's laws, there is commonly more or 
less disturbance of the general health. With some persons it is gradual, 
extending two or three years; one period is missed, and then there is regular- 
ity, several months more perhaps elapsing without an appearance of the 
menses; then a scanty discharge occurs; an excessive flow may come on, 
aad after a while the discharge is so slight as to attract no attention. Dur- 
ing this time, there is more or less discomfort, with much anxiety as to the 
final result. If excessive and prolonged flooding occurs, there is often rea- 
son for consulting a physician to ascertain whether there be a uterine poly- 
pus, tumor or some malignant growth, as cancer. 

With some women menstruation ceases abruptly, and there is anxiety 
as to whether it is due to pregnancy or cold. When caused by a cold or 
shock, nature sometimes takes the opportunity, if late in life, to terminate 
the function. It is not strange chat there should be vertigo, headache, 
flushes of heat, great nervousness, pains in the back and loins, urinary diffi- 
culties, and like symptoms, when we consider that all the elements previ- 
ously appropriated by the function of reproduction are suddenly thrown 
into the general circulation. The system has not yet adjusted itself to the 
new order of things, and abnormal conditions sometimes result from an 
undue supply of nutrition to some part or organ. Nor is it surprising that 
at this time of general disturbance any hitherto latent disease may be 
aroused, stimulated by the general activity. Much however may be done 
to prevent any disastrous results following the critical age. 

The main point at this time is to so regulate the life and habits that the 
blood-currents may be as little disturbed as possible. There is an intimate 
connection between the sexual and the nutritive functions. The nutrition 
that has been supplied to the organs of reproduction and is now suddenly 
thrown into the general circulation causes a sense of fullness and oppression j 
the head and the heart ache and the nerves are much deranged during the 
breaking up of the function. 

Treatment. — The strictest hygienic rules should govern the woman 
who desires to go safely and comfortably through this change. She should 
live in the open air as much as possible; breathe deeply ; exercise moderately, 
but not to great fatigue. Her mind should be well occupied with every- 
thing but her own aches and pains. The skin should be kept active by daily 



MAN THE MAID AND THE WIFE. 39 i 

sponge-baths and plenty of friction. The diet should be light and nourish- 
ing; if there is a tendency to corpulency, a less quantity of food should be 
taken than before, the fat-forming kinds be avoided, and no stimulating 
beverages be used. The clothing should be warm and care should be taken 
to keep the limbs and feet both dry and warm. 

As the "change of life" is a natural condition, little can or should be 
done in the way of treatment aside from such measures as have just been 
mentioned for maintaining the general health in as good a condition as 
possible. Yet there are many unpleasant symptoms which are amenable 
to treatment, some of them purely nervous, others due to flatulence and 
other derangements of the bowels; but it is always important to apply to 
good counsel. Cimicifuga will be of service in correcting numerous symp- 
toms, as pain in the breasts and other parts intimately associated with the 
womb; pain in the top of the head; sinking of the stomach; restlessness. 
Five drops may be given three or four times a day. Nux vomica acts well 
if there be constipation, headache, bloated feeling in the stomach and 
bowels, and cramps in the limbs. As the liver is one of the main organs to 
be disturbed, podophyllin will often be of service. Trillium is efficacious 
for flashes of heat passing over the body and followed by difficult breathing 
and sweats. [Sanguinaria is excellent for the last symptoms.- — Hale.] 

ULCERATION OF THE WOMB. 

Cases of actual ulceration of the womb are of very rare occurrence, and 
when they do occur need the services of a specialist. What is commonly 
called ulceration is an "abrasion" or "erosion" of the mouth and lips of the 
neck of the womb. This disease is very common, because it arises from the 
commonest of all disorders, namely, catarrh. Catarrh of the womb is 
brought on by a cold. It may show itself in the head, then in the throat, 
with cough, then in the bowels in the form of diarrhoea, and finally in the 
womb, causing leucorrhoea. This discharge arises from the inside lining of 
the womb. It runs out through the neck of the womb, excoriates the lips, 
makes them look raw, just as a nasal catarrh excoriates the upper lip and 
nostrils. When seen with a speculum, the lips of the womb look angry and 
red, like a strawberry. If neglected, this erosion may go on to superficial 
ulceration. The surfaces bleed when touched. The bloody discharge may 
be brought on by walking much, as the excoriated lips chafe on the lower 
surface of the vagina. If a woman has profuse leucorrhoea, which some- 
times causes an itc*hing and burning of the vagina and vulva, if the menses 
come on a week or so too soon, and are more than usually painful, she may 
be pretty sure she has erosion or ulceration of the womb. 



392 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



Treatment. — Women can treat themselves for this form of ulcera- 
tion, and cure themselves in a majority of instances without the aid of a 
physician, if they will follow out the following directions: — Take internally 
calcarea carbonica, third trituration, every morning and night a small pow- 
der. Take after each meal one grain of arsenicum, third trituration, or one 
drop of Fowler's Solution of arsenic after each meal. For local treatment, 
use an injection into the vagina of one pint of warm water in which has 
been dissolved half a teaspoonful of borax. 

Procure from a druggist some surgeon's cotton ("borated cotton," 
"absorbent cotton") and make of this cotton little pads, about the size of a 
pressed fig or small flat tomato. With a large needle run a small cord through 
the center of the pad and then back, and tie the ends about four inches from 
the pad. This cord is to withdraw the pad with. Procure some "calendula 
cerate," or a salve made after the following formula: — 



Balsam Peru, 

Fluid extract eucalyptus, 

Boracic acid, 

Vaseline, 



i drachm, 
i drachm, 
i drachm. 
2 ounces. 



Mix. 



The pad of cotton is to be smeared all over with one of these salves 
(the latter if the leucorrhoea causes much irritation). Then every night 
push a pad up into the vagina with the finger as far as it will go, usually the 
length of the finger. It will then rest against the mouth of the womb and 
come in contact with the eroded or ulcerated surface. Continue this 
application all through the month except during the menses. Keep quiet 
during the menses, and during a few days previous. This local treatment 
is advised by some of the best gynaecologists of Europe and America, and 
was originally recommended by the late Dr. G. Marion Sims. Its dis- 
covery was a great boon to suffering women. 



CHAPTER XIII. 
THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 




SECTION I. 
THE MOTHER. 

MARRIAGE AND PARENTAGE. 

AN and woman are complementary to each other, mutually 
dependent for health, happiness and virtue. Marriage is nec- 
essary to the perfection of their being, and if suitable and 
^^^^ happy will lengthen life. One of the objects of the con- 
jugal union is the transmission of life, and it is a solemn duty to in- 
sure to the offspring as vigorous minds and bodies as can be secured by 
the most conscientious pains-taking. To be sure, the responsibility rests 
upon both the husband and the wife. If their growth or development is 
defective, there must be imperfection in the offspring. No organism should 
reproduce while it is itself incomplete, a remark which may be applied to 
early marriages. When the marital relations are assumed too early, the 
development of the prospective parents will be more or less arrested, and 
their offspring will have a heritage of proportionate feebleness. It is impos- 
sible to fix an age for all individuals at which marriage is advisable, because 
some arrive at the requisite maturity earlier than others. Though it is often 
said that the proper age for the woman is from twenty to twenty-three and 
that for the man from twenty-three to thirty-three, the figures seem quite 
arbitrary, and it is safer to say that both should attain to a healthy and sub- 
stantial maturity. Yet it is important that the development be both phys- 
ical and intellectual, for the two kinds are so far from always co-existing that 
they often exhibit a marked contrast. Besides, the moral part of one's 
being exerts such an influence upon the mind and body that on both phys- 
iological and higher grounds it must be admitted that the happiest issue of 
marriage can be experienced only when the moral sense of both husband 
and wife is pure and elevated. Though education and proper attention to 

393 



394 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the laws of life and health may improve an imperfectly organized embryo 
or child, the fact remains that the quality of the germs furnished at the 
period of impregnation will influence the offspring throughout life. It is 
therefore a matter of serious moment that the expectant father and mother 
maintain the best possible health, with temperance in all things, the mind 
being cheerful and elastic, and the body active and vigorous, in short, with 
all possible essentials of good health. Parents who transmit disease or 
weakness to their offspring, causing it to decay before its full development 
or linger on in pain and debility, are certainly infringing upon the most sa- 
cred rights of posterity. We now speak more particularly of the mother. 

MATERNITY. 

From the beginning of the divergence of the two sexes which was 
spoken of in the last chapter, the girl gives more or less marked evidences 
of those instincts and affections which develop with her age, and are called 
maternal in her later years. These are a natural and inseparable part of 
her being, a spiritual element of her life, whose purity, strength and eleva- 
tion very largely determine the type of a woman that she is to be. When 
she becomes a wife, their intensity is heightened until the impulses to ma- 
ternity take rank among the strongest and noblest of the human breast. 
Conscious however that increased responsibilities are to be imposed upon her 
by maternity, with more or less anxiety and even pain, she very naturally 
wishes to know how to care for herself during the periods that precede and 
follow the birth of her babe. With such matters we are now concerned. 

SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. 

When a young married woman in good health ceases to menstruate she 
should know that she is probably pregnant. Absence of the menses is the 
rule in pregnancy, though there are exceptional cases in which the discharge 
takes place regularly during the continuance of this condition. In most 
cases "morning sickness" occurs at any time from two to six weeks after 
conception, and is one of the most annoying and disagreeable experiences of 
pregnancy. A sensation of fullness, with a throbbing, tingling pain in the 
breasts, accompanied with their enlargement, is one of the signs which are 
less evident to others though especially noticeable to the prospective mother. 
The delicate pink-colored circle around the nipples seen during maidenhood 
becomes several shades darker. This is more especiallv true of the first 
pregnancy, and the original color does not return. The presence of milk in 
the breasts is considered very conclusive evidence of pregnancy but it is often 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 395 

unreliable, for there are diseased conditions of the womb that affect the 
breasts sympathetically and cause milk to flow into them. 

Two months after conception the bowels are somewhat elevated and in 
the third month an enlargement of the abdomen may be perceived. At the 
fourth the womb rises out of the pelvis in the form of a hard round tumor 
and increases the prominence of the whole abdomen. At the sixth it rises 
to the navel, and at the ninth it reaches the highest point and begins to 
descend. Abdominal enlargement may be due to other causes, as there are 
a number of diseases which might produce it. 

" Quickening " is the term applied to the mother's first perception of 
the movements of the child. It is the time when the pregnant womb 
becomes too large to remain longer in the pelvis, and rises, sometimes sud- 
denly, into the abdomen, causing slight faintness and sickness. Something 
similar to this sign may also be caused by flatus in the intestine. Other 
evidences of pregnancy might be mentioned, but they are usually of such a 
nature that none but the experienced physician or nurse can discover them. 
Enough have been named to determine to an almost absolute certainty 
when the condition exists. Now what care is requisite? 

HABITS DURING PREGNANCY. 

DIET. 

The regulation of the diet should have reference to (i) health and 
comfort during pregnancy, (2) freedom from pain and danger in labor, 
and (3) a good condition of both mother and child after parturition. The 
assumption that a pregnant woman needs more food than before has no 
valid foundation, and has led to much harm. A little work at figures 
■would show that the increased amount of nourishment required for the 
growth of a foetus during nine months is so small that the requisite daily 
increase would be almost imperceptible. Besides, almost all people regu- 
larly eat more than the system requires or assimilates, and the surplus is 
quite enough for the sustenance of the foetus. Indeed, the common symp- 
tom of sickness and vomiting in the morning may reasonably be taken as 
an evidence that nature is expelling an excess of nourishment already exist- 
ing, and that less food rather than more should be taken, particularly if the 
woman experiences a normal action of the general functions of the body. 
In the late stages of pregnancy, the practice of " eating for two " will be 
especially liable to induce vomiting, constipation, heartburn and difficulty 
of labor. Some women, however, who have such delicate constitutions 
that they take little food when in their usual health, have a normal increase 
during pregnancy, this condition exerting perhaps a happy influence on 



39(5 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



their general health; it is evident that such an increase of appetite, unless 
it becomes unnatural or voracious, is to be gratified. If a morbid appetite 
exists for chalk, slate pencils, and other like substances, it must be con- 
trolled of course, never gratified. 

The general health of the pregnant woman may be favored by a 
moderate but adequate use of such articles as she can take with comfort, 
but she should avoid pastry, cakes, salted meats, spices, stimulating drinks, 
and all things that tend to indigestion, constipation, and an undue accumu- 
lation of fat. Plain cooking is always important to health, but more par- 
ticularly in pregnancy. 

Aside from her own health, the prospective mother wishes to do what 
is best for her unborn babe, and what will mitigate, as far as possible, her 
pain during labor and lessen the chances of the loss of her child. In point 
of diet she will be likely to attain these ends in proportion as she "subsists 
during pregnancy upon aliment which is free from earthy and bony matter; 
hence the more ripe fruit, acid fruit in particular, and the less of other kinds 
of food, but particularly of bread or pastry of any kind, is consumed, the 
less will be the dangers and sufferings of childbirth." The words quoted 
are found in Dr. Hale's "Diseases of Women," in which he states a princi- 
ple laid down by an English chemist, a principle whose truth is attested 
by the experience of many reputable physicians. The fruit diet insures a 
flexibility in the bones and muscles of both woman and foetus which is most 
conducive to ease of delivery and also affords relief from swelling of the 
limbs, feet and veins, soreness and tenderness of the breasts, and other 
untoward symptoms which are produced or aggravated by bread, meats 
and other common articles of food. The more nearly one approaches an 
exclusive diet of fruits and vegetables the better, though the comfort of the 
woman is to regulate it in some measure. By various combinations the 
requisite variety and freedom from disgust for the food can be secured. If 
laxness of the bowels comes on, as it generally will, especially at first, and 
is persistent, the diet is not to be abandoned, but mutton broths may be 
used to regulate it. The pregnant woman who insists on eating ill-advised 
food simply because she likes it will scarcely fail to pay the penalty in pain 
and danger in parturition. Meat and bread should be taken very sparingly, 
and fish will be found the best of all flesh food. To be sure, a substantial 
change is to be made after labor; the aim of the diet then being to build 
up the bone and muscle of the mother and the nursing babe, the diet will 
consist in a great measure of such articles of a wholesome nature as are to 
be avoided during pregnancy. To assist in selecting the food for both 
periods, we here incorporate a list made by the chemist alluded to above; 
those containing a large proportion of phosphate of lime or earthy matter 



MAN — THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 397 

are on the general principle to be avoided during pregnancy, and used 
while nursing. 

" Beans, rye, oats and barley have not so much earthy matters as wheat; 
potatoes and peas, not more than half as much; flesh of fowls and young 
animals, one-tenth ; rice, sago, fish, eggs, etc., still less ; cheese, one-t'juen- 
tieth; cabbage, savoy, brocolli, artichokes, coleworts, asparagus, endives, 
rhubarb, cauliflower, celery, and fresh vegetables generally, one-fifteenth ; 
turnips, carrots, onions, radishes, garlic, parsley, spinach, small salad, let- 
tuce, cucumbers, leeks, beet-root, parsnips, mangelwurzel, mushrooms, veg- 
etable marrows, and all kinds of vegetables and flowers average less than 
one-fifth; apples, pears, plums, cherries, strawberries, gooseberries, rasp- 
berries, cranberries, blackberries, huckleberries, currants, melons, olives, 
peaches, apricots, pineapples, nectarines, pomegranates, prunes, raisins, figs, 
lemons, limes, oranges and grapes, on the average are two hundred times 
less ossifying than bread or anything prepared from wheaten flour. Some 
articles, as honey, treacle, sugar, butter, oil, vinegar, and alcohol, if unadul- 
terated, are quite free from earthy matters. But still worse than wheaten 
flour is common salt, and nearly as bad are pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, 
cloves, ginger, coffee, cocoa, Turkey rhubarb, licorice, lentils, cinchona or 
Peruvian bark, cascarilla, sarsaparilla and gentian." The same writer 
observes that no water except rain and snow, as it falls, is free from earthy 
matter, and that the only way to make others free from them is by distilling, 
for filtering, which is only a mechanical expedient, cannot effect this end. 

DRESS, EXERCISE AND BATHS. 

Dress, — The clothing should be so adjusted that the principal weight 
will fall upon the shoulders and should be as light as is consistent with 
warmth, corsets and tight bands about the waist being avoided. Stocking 
supporters should take the place of the old-fashioned garter or elastic, so 
as to insure free circulation in the lower extremities, and the modern "com- 
bination garment," which consists of chemise, drawers and skirt all together, 
will be especially comfortable at this time. Particular pains should be taken 
to keep off" pressure from the abdomen, breasts and blood-vessels. 

Exercise. — Daily use of the muscles is an important means of main- 
taining good health during pregnancy. Walking brings into play a greater 
variety of movements than any other exercise. Summer or winter, walk- 
ing in the open air is a duty. It is best, if possible, to go out before dinner, 
having some pleasant object to attain other than simply the exercise. The 
mind should be pleasantly interested, in order to get the full benefit. Of 
course, when open-air recreation is impracticable, exercise in well-ventilated 
rooms is next to be chosen. It should be observed in general that one may 



398 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



carry the exercise too far. The end to be aimed at is a healthful perform- 
ance of the regular functions of the body. If the woman has good health, 
the object sought should be the maintenance of the same. Under the mis- 
taken idea that the acquisition of unusual muscular strength is important, 
the muscles have sometimes been trained into a rigidity calculated to increase 
the pangs of labor. 

Baths. — The regular morning bath may be continued throughout the 
period of pregnancy; it may be cold or tepid, sponge or full, whichever has 
been found by previous habits to best agree. The reader is referred to the 
remarks on the Sitz Bath, in the chapter on Nursing. The caution is here 
to be repeated about using baths rashly or indiscriminately. Trial must be 
the final guide in deciding upon the kind, temperature and frequency, and 
the reader will do well to read the remarks upon this subject in the chap- 
ters on Nursing and Hygiene. 

State of the Mind. — All excessive anger, joy, grief or other emotion 
should be guarded against. Much might be said here about the influence 
of the mother's mind upon the unborn child. It is of the utmost impor- 
tance that a tranquil, hopeful spirit be cultivated. Unquestionably many 
a deformity of the child at birth may be accounted for by impressions 
received by the mother during pregnancy. We therefore counsel the 
expectant mother to fortify her constitution by good habits and regimen, 
that she may escape the nervous conditions which are so susceptible to 
impressions, and if possible be surrounded with pleasant associations and 
objects of grace and beauty which tend to peace and cheerfulness. 

MEDICAL ADVICE. 

When the woman knows that she is pregnant, or has a doubt regarding 
it for any considerable time, she should consult her physician. The dis- 
orders of the period of gestation mentioned below can be materially miti- 
gated by a frequent talk with her medical adviser, and he will give hints 
aside from the above which apply to her particular case. At and after 
the fifth month, she should have an analysis made of the urine at intervals 
of four weeks, to ascertain if it contains albumen; if her physician has skill 
in this matter he will use means by which albuminuria at parturition may 
be avoided, and thus one of the most fruitful causes of convulsions and 
death be removed. The writer insists on this simple caution. See Albu- 
minuria on a subsequent page. A becoming modesty is always commend- 
able, but the inborn delicacy of woman should not bar her from counsel 
which will tend to allay her apprehensions, and suggest points on habits, 
diet and general care which will assist her in passing the hour of her trial 
in safety. 



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400 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

DISORDERS OF PREGNANCY. 

In the " good time coming " when health is the rule and sickness the 
exception, a chapter on the disorders of what should be a purely physio- 
logical condition will be unneccessary. The Creator could not have 
intended that pregnancy should be a source of disease, but ignorance, false 
modesty, fashion, diet, weak constitutions, bad training in girlhood, and the 
like, lay the foundation for much serious trouble, and thus induce an unfor- 
tunate dread of the approach of maternity. 

MORNING SICKNESS. 

Morning sickness may begin almost immediately after conception, 
often being the earliest symptom. It generally does not begin until after 
the lapse of two or three weeks, but then continues more or less constantly 
and severely for three or four weeks, and in some instances until near the 
time of quickening, or even until confinement. The causes are increased 
activity of the nerve force, whereby the equilibrium between digestion and 
assimilation is greatly disturbed. With those women who have habitually 
weak digestion this is not much of a symptom. Indeed, they will have 
better digestion and keener appetites for the reason that the action of the 
nerve force has been increased, whereas it had previously been deficient. 
When this annoying sickness is persistent and obstinate, yielding to no 
remedies, diet or regimen, we may suspect displacement of the womb, pos- 
sibly ulceration of its neck. The best course to pursue is to consult a 
physician to make the necessary examination. 

Treatment. — Arsenicum will relieve vomiting after eating or drinking, 
and persistent vomiting with extreme weakness and emaciation. Kreosote is 
suited to many cases and is especially useful if there be a great disturbance 
of the stomach, indigestion, and severe vomiting. Bromide of camphor, 
one-tenth grain to a half-grain every one or two hours, is superior for vom- 
iting attended with cold perspiration. Bromide of potassa and bromide of 
soda allay the reflex irritation which is so often the source of vomiting in 
pregnancy, and five to ten grains of either may be given one to three times 
a day; these also act well in some cases when given as an injection into the 
bowel, twenty to thirty grains being dissolved in a little warm water for 
such an injection. Pulsatilla is adapted to blondes and those of a lymphatic 
temperament, and will be useful for bitter taste, belching of the food, nausea 
induced by eating fat, and general repulsion to food. Nux vomica is appli- 
cable to most cases, especially in robust women, particularly if constipation 
exists; one or two drops of the tincture may be given three or four times 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 401 

a day, the first dose before rising in the morning. Mercurius may be used 
for loss of appetite; nausea; desire for acids; yellowish-coated tongue; a 
bilious condition. The oxalate of cerium is excellent for many cases; the 
effervescent salts is a superior form for its use, one teaspoonful in a glass of 
water being used two or three times a day ; it may be taken in boiling water 
before rising in the morning. Phosphoric, sulphuric, nitric and citric acid, 
much diluted, will relieve sourness of the stomach. Hydrocyanic acid is 
good for cases of most persistent vomiting; put four drops of the dilute acid 
in one ounce of water and take a teaspoonful of the mixture every two hours. 
Relief may sometimes be obtained by washing the hands and face in 
cold water and taking a cup of milk, or a little coffee and a biscuit or sand- 
wich, before raising the head from the pillow in the morning, the woman 
remaining in bed about a quarter of an hour after this early meal, then dressing 
quickly and going out for a walk. The regulation of the diet is also important. 
A change in the hours of eating to those in which the stomach is least likely 
to be disordered is advised, especially avoiding excessive meals. Sometimes 
beef-tea, two or three teaspoonfuls frequently repeated, or soda-water and 
milk will be beneficial. Small pieces of ice may often be melted in the mouth 
with gratifying results. Raw beef has been retained on the stomach when 
every other kind of food has been rejected. It may be scraped or chopped 
fine, sprinkled with salt and pepper, and spread on bread as a sandwich. 
Avoid hot biscuits, pastry, " made dishes," stews, half cooked vegetables 
and the like, and take very little drink during the meal. 

PAIN IN THE BREASTS. 

A pricking or sharp pain in one or both breasts is not uncommon during 
pregnancy and is especially liable to occur in those women who have suffered 
from painful menstruation. Like faceache and headache, it is generally of 
a neuralgic dharacter, caused by sympathetic irritation which occasions a 
flow of blood to the organs. 

Treatment. — Hamamelis and olive oil, one part of the former to two 
of the latter, rubbed into the breasts will afford relief. Chloroform and 
glycerine, one part of the former to twenty of the latter, are also useful. 

GENERAL CARE OF THE BREASTS. 

The last-named disorder may very properly be followed by some coun- 
sel as to the care of the breasts during pregnancy. There should be no 
pressure of corsets or padding. All through pregnancy mild friction of the 
breasts, with daily use of salt water, is beneficial. If there is a natural 

26 



402 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

depression of the nipple, it can be greatly modified by the application of a 
shield after the air has been exhausted; or an empty bottle which has been 
warmed in hot water will answer the purpose if its mouth is applied 
immediately to the nipple. This should be done frequently. Persistent 
efforts in the last months of pregnancy will often effect wonderful results in 
developing the nipple, and in those whose nipples are so drawn as to form 
a deep depression the following course will be of much service: Take an 
ordinary breast-pump and gradually exhaust the air until the nipple is drawn 
out; let it remain on for some time, rubbing the breast meanwhile with olive 
oil, often removing the pump; apply Wansbrough's nipple-shields and wear 
them until the next morning. As soon as it can be done, a piece of ribbon 
should be tied around the nipple to hold it out after the pump has been 
removed. An application of calendula jelly, which can be obtained at the 
drug-store, will tend to prevent soreness and should be used every day;- or 
a mixture of one part of calendula and three parts of olive oil may be used 
instead. If there be tenderness or cracking, apply either a little powdered 
borax and brandy, or tincture of myrrh to the nipples. 

CONSTIPATION. 

Among women who live in towns and lead a sedentary life constipation 
is a frequent attendant of pregnancy. There are other things besides indo- 
lent habits that may give rise to constipation, among which are the pressure 
of the enlarged womb upon the bowels, and a kind of torpor produced by 
the diverting of the nerve-force and muscular supply to the womb. 

Treatment. — Give bryonia for constipation with a flow of blood to 
the head, and for great irritability of temper. Nux vomica is suited to 
indigestion with a feeling that the rectum is closed; frequent and ineffectual 
urging to stool; piles; in chronic cases this remedy may be alternated with 
sulphur, giving the latter in the morning and nux vomica in the evening. 
Hydrastia is suitable for mere constipation; collinsonia for constipation 
attended with piles. 

An injection of tepid water with a little soap or salt will be of much 
benefit. It should be given slowly and continued until there is an urgent 
desire to evacuate. If only a small quantity can be retained, the injection 
should be repeated after a little time. [The constipation of pregnancy is 
sometimes so very obstinate that laxatives are required. The two follow- 
ing are the safest: (i) The " Compound Liquorice Powder," a teaspoon- 
ful in a half-glassful of water every night or two; (2) The "Elixir Cas- 
cara," a dessert, or teaspoonful at night. It is better to use them and cause 
a movement every day than remain costive. — Hale.] 






MAN THE MOTHER AND HER 1IABE. 403 

DIARRHOEA. 

If this condition is long continued, there is danger of miscarriage. 
Diarrhoea may recur every month at the time menstruation would have 
taken place if the woman were not pregnant. It is caused by nervous irri- 
tability, by cold induced by insufficient clothing, or by improper food. 

Treatment. — The appropriate remedies are given under Diarrhoea 
in Chapter IV. Use light food, such as milk with lime-water or soda- 
water. Wear flannel over the abdomen. Avoid night-air and all excesses. 

PILES. 

This trouble is by no means peculiar to pregnancy, but some women 
suffer from it at this time and at no other. The chief cause is pressure of 
the womb upon the blood-vessels in the pelvis, obstructing the circulation. 
Constipation also has its effect. 

Treatment. — In severe cases a lotion may be made by adding one 
ounce of hamainelis to four ounces of water and be applied to the parts 
with a compress of linen saturated in it. In external piles the protruding 
part should be pressed back within the sphincter as quickly as possible, the 
patient lying down and placing a compress wet in hamamelis upon the 
parts. For internal piles it is better to use injections of hot water than to 
strain much at stool. A fountain syringe is the best. The diet should be 
unstimulating, such as ripe fruits, fresh vegetables, bread made from unbolted 
flour that has had the coarsest of the bran sifted out. Coffee, tea, and 
alcoholic drinks should not be indulged in. Read the article on Piles in a 
previous chapter for more detailed directions on treatment. 

INCONTINENCE OF URINE. 

Frequent desire to urinate is a common symptom of pregnancy, and if 
not promptly yielded to it results in an involuntary discharge. This is due 
to pressure of the enlarged womb upon the bladder which makes this a 
troublesome disorder during the last weeks of pregnancy. The urine is 
often acrid, dribbles away, and painfully galls the parts. 

Treatment. — Rest is of the greatest importance. Nux vomica, one 
drop doses of the tincture three or four times a day, is one of the best reme- 
dies, especially when the inclination to urinate is accompanied with pains in 
the neck of the bladder and with constipation. In the later months, when 
the pressure on the bladder is great, the abdomen being large and over- 
hanging, an abdominal bandage will afford much relief by both removing 



404 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the sense of weight and taking much of the pressure from the bladder. See 
the treatment of this disorder in a previous chapter. 

RETENTION OF URINE. 

This is a more serious disorder than the one last considered and re- 
quires prompt attention. It may arise from pressure on the distended 
womb, or the womb may be so displaced as to press on the neck of the 
bladder and thus prevent the discharge of the urine. It may occur at any 
stage of pregnancy, and should at once receive skilled aid. 

Treatment. — At the beginning of the difficulty, for coldness and 
shivering with sudden spasmodic retention, camphor is invaluable; two drops 
of the tincture may be given on loaf sugar, or camphor pills may be used, 
the dose being repeated every twenty minutes. Urging desire to urinate, 
with cutting, tearing pain and distress, will be best treated with cantharis. 
Ineffectual desire to pass urine, the discharges coming away drop by 
drop, calls for nux vomica. 

A towel wet in cold water and applied to the abdomen, alternating it 
quickly with one wrung out in hot water, will often bring relief. The 
urine may sometimes be passed, when other measures fail, if the patient will 
stand on the knees and elbows. If the above remedies and accessories fail 
and the urine has been retained a considerable time, a catheter should be 
used by a physician to draw it off. Should no urine be found in the bladder 
when the catheter is used, the case is verv serious, for suppression has taken 
place, the urine not being secreted by the kidneys as it ought. 

SWELLING OF THE LOWER LIMBS. 

Swelling of the lower limbs generally makes its appearance within the 
last three months of pregnancy. It usually begins at the feet and rises 
higher and higher until it invades the ankle, leg and thigh. It is a kind of 
dropsy but is not dangerous, usually disappearing almost immediately after 
the birth of the child. See Albuminuria below. If it is found that the swell- 
ing is an attendant or symptom of albuminuria, the case is one of much 
greater urgency. 

Treatment. — If the swelling be rapid, extreme, and attended with 
urinary difficulties, give apis. Arsenicum is indicated when the swelling is 
accompanied with much weakness and prostration, and with a feeble, irreg- 
ular pulse. If the disorder arises from exhausting discharges, as bleeding, 
diarrhoea, and the like, china will afford relief. Rest is of the highest im- 
portance, and in securing it care should be taken to relieve the limbs. 



MAN — THE MOTHER AND HER HA BE. M)~) 

ALBUMINURIA. 

When there is a general swelling which is more immediately notice- 
able in the hands and face, it may be of a more serious nature than the one 
considered just above, and may be caused by a disorder known as albumi- 
nuria. This is a condition in which the albumen of the blood, instead of 
going to supply the body, finds its way out through the kidneys. Such 
swellings should lead at once to an examination of the urine to determine 
whether or not albumen is present. A simple and easy method of making 
such examinations is given for Bright's Disease under "The Urine,'' in 
Chapter II. The presence of albumen in the urine of pregnant women 
wilL be indicated by the substance resembling white of egg, as described in 
the place cited. Such a test should be repeatedly made when any swellings 
exist like those named, and it is best that the question of the existence of 
albuminuria be not left with inexperienced persons. Indeed, it is a wise 
precaution to use this test at different times during pregnancy, whether the 
disorder under discussion is suspected or not. The violent and fatal convul- 
sions in child-bed are occasioned by albuminuria, which is induced by a con- 
dition of the kidneys that obstructs the circulation of the blood, causing a 
retention of urea in the blood, and thus producing what is known as ursemic 
poisoning. This condition exists, to a greater or less extent, oftener than is 
supposed by most people, including physicians; hence the urgency of fre- 
quent tests to decide about its existence. It can be corrected by a skillful 
physician. Dropsy is also sometimes associated with albuminuria, and its 
appearance demands immediate and competent medical aid. 

FALSE WATERS. 

Discharges of "false waters" differ from those of threatened abortion in 
that they are free from the pains which characterize the latter. The color 
of false waters is a little yellow, sometimes tinged with blood, and large 
quantities may be discharged. The disorder is probably due to a super- 
abundance of fluid within the membranes surrounding the foetus. 

Treatment. — Insure perfect rest during the discharge. If the flow, 
excites pain, retain in the rectum an injection composed of fifteen to twenty 
drops of laudanum and a tablespoonful of starch-water. 

CRAMPS. 

Pregnant women are subject to cramps or irregular pains in the abdo- 
men, loins, calves of the legs, and the feet, especially about the fourth and 
fifth months, and toward the termination of pregnancy. 



406 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Few cases will fail to yield at once to the use of mix 
vomica, and this should be given upon the appearance of cramps, especially 
if constipation exists; a drop of the tincture may be given two or three 
times a day. Apply brisk friction to the legs and keep them dry and 
warm. During the cramps, clasp the limbs firmly with both hands, and 
thus cut short the distress. See Cramps of the Muscles, Chapter XI. 

COLIC. 

Spasmodic colic is quite frequent during pregnancy, is due to flatulence 
or gas in the bowels, and is often a distressing ailment. 

Treatment. — Since its primary origin is generally in the diet, care 
should be taken to avoid such articles as are found to provoke it. Imme- 
diate relief is often obtained by warm applications to the abdomen and an 
injection of hot water into the bowels. Give chamomilla for colic associated 
with relaxation of the bowels; tearing pains about the navel ; impatience 
and irritability. Colocynth is suited to paroxysmal colic attended with cut- 
ting, griping, or intermittent pains; diarrhoea; severe as well as mild forms 
of the disease. Nux vomica is invaluable for spasmodic flatulent colic, and 
for constipation alternating with diarrhoea. Give veratrum album for severe 
crampy pains, with or without diarrhoea, if accompanied with the vomiting 
of bilious matter; it has been preceded by hyoscyamus with advantage. 

ITCHING OF THE GENITALS— PRURITIS. 

This is a very distressing trouble, sometimes occurring without any 
appreciable cause, and may be of an alarming nature. It is generally pro- 
duced by discharges from the vagina having acrid or corroding properties- 

The annoyance caused by it is sometimes so great as to arouse extreme 
and painful nervous excitement. 

Treatment. — Frequent washing of the parts with water and castile 
soap will often correct the disorder. If this is not sufficient, a wash of 
borax may be used, or an injection of ammoniated water, two teaspoonfuls 
of the aromatic spirits of ammonia in a glass of water. Benzoic acid, ten to 
twenty grains in a half-pint of water, is also a good application; while dilute 
carbolic acid, tincture of iron, infusion of hops, and flower of sulphur, have 
all proved efficacious. A superior preparation is made of subnitrate of bis- 
muth and olive oil, one drachm of the former to two ounces of the latter. 
Still another is made of ten grains of sulphate of zinc, five grains of pulver- 
ized tannin and a tablespoonful of honey, well mixed, and then stirred into 
a pint of boiling water; it can be kept bottled. 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 4(J7 

FAINTING. 

This is not of unusual occurrence among women during the first 
month of pregnancy, even before the suppression of the menses. At the 
period of quickening it is quite common, owing no doubt to a sympathetic 
nervous irritation from the movements of the child. It is generally a dis- 
order that should cause no alarm unless it is connected with heart-disease. 

Treatment. — The first thing to be done is to lay the woman flat on 
the bed with the head on a level with the body; loose the clothing; admit 
plenty of air; sprinkle cold water on the face; apply to the nostrils salts of 
ammonia, camphor, cologne, or vinegar. For continued fainting fits give 
camphor, one drop of the spirits in a little water every ten minutes, and 
then send for a physician. See Fainting in a previous chapter. 

VARICOSE VEINS. 

A swelling of the veins is a frequent accompaniment of pregnancy, 
especially in the lower limbs. The veins of the thigh and those below the 
knee are liable to be involved. Sometimes the foot becomes quite purple, 
and the veins in the legs and thighs acquire an enormous size. The cause 
is the pressure of the enlarged womb upon the blood-vessels, which obstructs 
the return of blood from the parts below. It is most frequent in those who 
have borne many children. 

Treatment. — The limb should be bandaged from the toes up. Be- 
neath the bandage compresses of linen should be laid over the enlarged 
veins and kept wet with hamamelis. Rest in the recumbent posture is of 
much importance and readily affords relief. Sometimes an elastic stocking 
is necessary, and should be drawn on before rising in the morning. 

ABORTION.— MISCARRIAGE. 

Abortion must be regarded as a serious evil. It not only deprives the 
mother of the product of her pregnancy, but often places her health and 
even life in peril. The general condition of the prospective mother neces- 
sarily exerts a great influence in this disorder. Fleshy women subject to 
profuse menstruation, very impressible, nervous women easily excited by 
passion or mental disturbances, and those who indulge immoderately in the 
pleasures of society, dancing, late hours and tight lacing, are liable to the 
misfortune. Such as are occupied at the sewing machine are constantly ex- 
posed to this mishap. Some diseases are predisposing causes, as when the 
mother transmits some acute disease to the foetus, such as small-pox or yel- 



40 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

low fever. A sudden leap from a carriage, reaching up and straining, ex- 
cessive fatigue, too frequent coition, violent fits of anger and other passions, 
are causes. Miscarriages happen oftener at the third month of pregnancy. 
The return of what would have been a menstrual period had the woman not 
been pregnant is the most frequent time for their occurrence. 

Treatment. — In the treatment of this trouble much depends on the 
patient and the care she may exercise. The following rules will often pre- 
vent the loss of the fetus, as well as the danger to the mother. At the first 
indication of disturbance, as pain or discharges from the womb of any kind, 
the patient should immediately go to bed and lie there quietly. All excit- 
ing influences should be removed. The feet must be kept warm. A phy- 
sician should be summoned at once, though the indications of abortion be 
very slight, and his orders be strictly followed, even if they require a seem- 
ingly well woman to remain in bed for days or weeks. If there has been a 
considerable discharge of blood or if the pain has been severe and long- 
continued, these means with proper medical treatment will often prevent 
abortion in apparently hopeless cases. Some women are predisposed to abor- 
tion and this predisposition is increased at each successive mishap of that 
kind. Such should take preventive treatment under the direction of some 
one skilled in these cases. To those who cannot obtain this help the follow- 
ing remedies will be found of value. 

Viburnum prunifolium exerts great influence over the reproductive 
organs and will often quiet an irritable uterus at once. It is indicated by 
spasmodic uterine pains, and when these appear it should be taken in five 
to ten drop doses of the tincture everv one or two hours until relieved. This 
remedy may be used by those who are predisposed to miscarriage, so as to 
remove the primary causes; in which case the dose should be two drops of 
the tincture three times a day, so continued during the second and third 
months of pregnancy. Caulophyllum also relieves spasmodic pains and may 
be alternated with or follow the viburnum, twenty drops of tincture being 
put into three ounces of water and a teaspoonful of this dilution being taken 
every one or two hours. Ergot in one, two or three drop doses every hour 
will arrest the hemorrhage and quiet the pain. Opium in some form is 
often necessary if the pain is severe and protracted ; put one teaspoonful of 
the deodorized tincture in four ounces of water and take one teaspoonful of 
the dilution every half to one hour until relieved of the pain. 

PARTURITION AXD ITS CONSEQUENCES. 

In spite of her fond anticipations of maternity, the wife knows that 
she is not to attain to it without some trial and pain, for the physiological 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 409 

consequence of pregnancy in the present order of social life is indeed one of 
"labor." Without giving a useless discussion upon the causes which have 
made this natural function one of pain and sometimes peril, or even drawing 
a contrast with the Indian mother of the forest who is scarcely interrupted 
in her regular duties by bringing forth a child, as an evidence of what is the 
privilege of other women, we drop a remark or two which apply to civiliza- 
tion as it is, and will be gratefully received by the expectant mother. Though 
much suffering attends the bearing of children, and though deaths do occa- 
sionally occur during and after the labors of child-birth, the dangers of a 
fatal issue are greatly exaggerated by the non-professional public. Not- 
withstanding foolish and hurtful fashions and the most absurdly imprudent 
habits of many women during pregnancy, experience and statistics show 
that the actual peril to life is so slight, as compared with the popular belief, 
that it ought to occasion little or no anxiety to the one who is approaching 
the consummation of maternity. By reasonable caution during gestation, 
as to particulars mentioned above, the danger to life may be reduced far 
below what it is in the other more common forms of confining diseases, and 
even the pain of labor may be very largely avoided. There is an impres- 
sion that the first confinement is more dangerous than subsequent ones. 
While it is usually more protracted, it is not more hazardous. 

PREPARATIONS FOR CONFINEMENT. 

The woman who is approaching her first confinement is especially in 
need of a little instruction upon the proper preparations, and we give the 
principal particulars in a few words. 

The Mother's Outfit.— Three medium-weight flannel vests; six dress- 
ing-sacks, used in place of night-gowns; three bandages a yard and a half 
long and twelve inches wide, made of white dress-drilling; three Canton flan- 
nel skirts with a shirr at the top; two dozen linen napkins. 

Child's Outfit. — Two yards of finest all-wool white flannel for bands — 
tear them off as they are needed, in width to suit the size of the child, and use 
without hem or seam; three lamb's- wool hand-knit shirts with long sleeves 
— to be used until after the period of teething, thus necessitating the pur- 
chase or making of new ones as the child grows; twenty-four diapers; four 
flannel pinning-blankets; three flannel skirts; three pairs of knit woolen 
socks; two flannel or merino blankets one yard wide; six night-slips; one 
box with puff, corn starch being suitable for use. Though the pinning- 
blankets are usually made with muslin bodies, it is better to tear off a piece of 
flannel of sufficient size to make both skirt and waist, and then draw one 
end together in box-plaits so as to fit the body. 



•410 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Baby Basket. — The following should be all in readiness before labor 
begins: Pieces of old soft linen or absorbent cotton for dressing the navel; 
a cake of white castile soap; a fine sponge; a bottle of sweet oil; a paper 
of large safety pins and a paper of small ones; a pair of round-pointed, 
sharp scissors; complete suit of baby's clothes. 

Articles Needed During Labor. — Pure vaseline or sweet oil for the 
soft parts of the mother and the hands of the physician, nurse or attendant; 
a cord made of four linen threads twisted together, to be used in tying the 
umbilical cord; a square yard of flannel to envelop the new born babe; 
a supply of warm water, towels and napkins; a fine sponge; a vessel to 
receive the after-birth; it is highly desirable to have ice at hand. 

NOTES ON THE LYING-IN CHAMBER. 

The Roo?n. — The room should, in general, be as described in the chap- 
ter devoted to Home Nursing, as to points of ventilation, furniture, bed, and 
many other particulars. In case of prolonged or difficult labor there is 
some danger that the temperature will be too high and induce fever, irregu- 
lar and ineffective pains and fatigue, thus protracting the labor. 

The Bed. — Before the second stage of labor (see Labor below) the bed 
should be prepared. It may be arranged as usual, with the addition of a 
thick blanket or quilt underneath the lower sheet, covered bv a sheet of 
rubber, oil-silk, or table oil-cloth. By this arrangement all the soiled bed- 
ding can be removed after the birth of the child, the lower sheet, which 
has been previously folded back, can be drawn down into place, and the bed 
be as fresh as before labor. 

The Dress of the Mother. — This should be so arranged that it will not 
be soiled. The chemise should be folded up around the waist, so that it can 
be easily pulled down after labor has passed, and the bandage which is to 
be used after delivery be pinned around the body. Below this may be a 
flannel skirt to protect the person and be readily removed without lifting 
the patient after labor. A short white sacque in the place of the customary 
long night-dress will be convenient and out of the way. The whole cloth- 
ing should be as light as possible. Of course no corset will be worn, but 
instead of it a broad double calico bandage with rows of tape arranged on 
each side, so that it may be tightened as labor advances, and be afterward 
used for the common bandage or binder. 

Labor. — The expectant mother will experience unmistakable symp- 
toms of her approaching confinement during the last months of pregnancy, 
some time before she need pay attention to some of the above particulars. 
One of the first of these is the sense of decrease in the weight of the abdo- 



MAN- THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 411 

men, which is caused by the descent of the womb into the pelvis. This 
change of position takes place about two weeks before confinement. The 
waist becomes sensibly smaller, and the lungs, heart and stomach are re- 
lieved from the pressure; the woman feels more buoyant and comfortable, 
breathes more freely, and can exercise with less discomfort. 

The first stage of labor is the process of dilatation of the mouth of 
the uterus. There is a discharge of watery blood, known in common par- 
lance as the "show;" intermittent and regular pains, ushered in by shiver- 
ings; frequent desire to empty the bladder and the bowels; oftentimes 
nausea and vomiting. During this stage, it is better to walk the room or 
sit in a chair, which is less tiresome than to be confined to the bed. There 
is nothing now to do but to wait until the womb is sufficiently dilated. It 
is worse than useless to "bear down" at this time, for it does no good and 
wastes the strength. It is well to thoroughly evacuate the bowels by using 
an injection of warm water and soap. The second stage is indicated by 
the bearing-down and forcing nature of the pains, which come with great 
regularity and continue until the birth of the child. The voluntary expul- 
sive efforts should only be made during the pains; between them it is better 
to rest. The third stage is the expulsion of the placenta, or after-birth. 
This generally takes place in from fifteen to thirty minutes after the birth. 

As a rule, labor should not be interfered with, but when there are 
malformations and tedious labors the skilled physician brings his instru- 
ments and medicines to the relief of the sufferer. Sometimes a physician is 
not at hand, the pains are ineffectual, labor is tedious, and some help at the 
hands of the non-professional is necessary. If there be indications that the 
mouth of the womb is rigid and hard, one or two drop doses of the tincture 
of gelseminum will be found useful. Caulophyllum will stimulate the womb 
to expulsive efforts, five to ten drops of the tincture being the dose. If the 
pains are long-continued, aggravating, and with little effect on the labor, 
good results are obtained by inducing complete rest for a few hours by an 
opiate, for which purpose ten to twenty drops of the tincture of opium may 
be used. 

General Remarks. — If the labor is much protracted, the patient should 
be encouraged to sleep; should have tea, dry toast, soup, light pudding, and 
the like, if she wishes them ; should evacuate the bladder and bowels at 
reasonable intervals, the latter sometimes requiring an injection. If shiv- 
ering arises, give warm tea, or gruel without stimulants. Vomiting is rather 
favorable than otherwise, though bits of ice may be melted on the tongue 
or swallowed if the vomiting is very long-continued, or attended with 
much heat and nausea at the stomach. 

The New-Bom Babe. — When the child is born, the nurse or attendant 



412 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH 



should move it out of the way of the discharges of the mother, on the 
right side, so that it can have a chance to breathe. If it is strong and 
healthy, its first appearance will be attended with a vigorous cry, which 
will fill the lungs, start breathing, and establish pulmonary circulation. It 
is therefore necessary to examine the mouth and throat at once and remove 
all mucus. After the pulsations have ceased in the umbilical or navel cord 
the latter should be jirmly tied with the linen cord mentioned above, about 
two inches from the body of the child. Another ligature should be applied 
two or three inches further from the body, and the cord be then cut between 
the two ligatures, sharp scissors with blunt points being used. The end of 
the umbilical cord next to the child should be carefully examined to see 
that bleeding does not continue. 

After the breathing is established and the cord has been properlv 
secured, the child should be wrapped in a soft, well- warmed blanket and 
be allowed to rest before it is washed and dressed, the temperature of the 
room in which it lies not being below So G F. When the child is to be 
dressed, the layer of greasy, tenacious matter which covers the body can 
best be removed by spreading oil or lard over the whole surface and then 
gently rubbing it off with a piece of flannel cloth. By avoiding soap and 
water in this dressing the danger of a chill is removed, while the oil or lard 
will more thoroughly cleanse the skin. 

To dress the navel, take a piece of antiseptic cotton or old soft linen, 
about four inches square, make a hole in the center, and draw through it 
the stump of the cord, spreading the cloth smoothly on the abdomen. 
Then wrap the stump of the cord in another piece of the cotton or linen 
and lay it upward toward the chest. Put upon this a double layer of flannel 
and secure the whole in place with a band about four inches wide, gently 
fastened around the body. In five or six days this remnant of the cord 
will come off. Care should be taken when washing not to disturb the 
dressing. It not unfrequently happens that the navel, during the process 
of healing after the separation of the cord, becomes very much inflamed, 
the inflammation spreading considerably around it, and ulceration setting in 
if it is not properly treated. For this condition, dip folds of lint into calen- 
dula water and apply it to the parts, using ten drops of the tincture of 
calendula to two tablespoonfuls of water. 

Still-Born Infants. — An apparently dead child may sometimes be 
resuscitated by prompt and well-directed efforts, if the heart has not entirely 
ceased to beat. These efforts should be made before the navel string is 
tied. The mucus in the mouth and the throat should be carefully wiped 
away and the mother be directed to breathe deeply several times. If this 
is not sufficient to promote breathing in the child, give several smart blows 



MAX THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 413 

on the back and buttocks; sprinkle a little cold water in the face. If this is 
unsuccessful, tie and cut the cord after the pulsations in it have ceased, 
and put the child into a warm bath, at a temperature of 96 ° to ioo° F. 
If this fails, apply with gentleness, but with patience and long persistence, 
the means for "Artificial Breathing " mentioned under Drowning. 

The Mother. — When the placenta, or afterbirth, has been removed 
from the mother, which should never be interfered with by any one who is 
not experienced, it is well to apply a bandage around the abdomen, the 
broad calico bandage previously mentioned being suitable. This should 
be fastened by safety pins or by the tapes if the bandage alluded to be used. 
Before this bandage is put on, the nurse or other attendant can greatly 
assist the womb in contracting by placing the hand on the abdomen and 
grasping the womb, which may be felt as a hard ball under the hand. 
This will also tend to prevent or check bleeding. After the soft parts have 
been cleansed with a sponge and warm water, a cloth wet in a solution of 
arnica, one teaspoonful of the tincture to a teacupful of warm water, may 
be laid upon them. The room may now be darkened and everything be 
quiet, that tired nature may be refreshed by a little sleep, though the babe, 
previously dressed, is to be first put to the breast. 

FLOODING. 

After delivery the most frequent source of danger to the mother is in 
flooding, or bleeding. This generally comes with a rush after the child is 
born. Sometimes all is well for several hours, and then the bleeding sets 
in. Occasionally there is no appearance of unusual flow externally, but 
the small pulse, pallor of the face and dimness of vision indicate internal 
hemorrhage, that is, in the cavity of the womb, from which the blood only 
escapes into the vagina and forms large clots there. 

Treatment. — Under such conditions the woman's head should be 
lowered and the hips be a little elevated. An injection of ice-cold water 
will often be effectual; at the same time some pieces of ice may be swal- 
lowed. A treatment quite the reverse of this is popular and efficacious at 
the present time, and consists in using hot-water injections, temperature 
95 to ioo°, and applying rubber bags filled with hot water to the spine. 
Place the child to the breast. The object of these various means is to pro- 
mote contraction of the womb. Nothing is simpler or perhaps better 
than dipping the hand in cold water, placing it on the abdomen, and grasp- 
ing the womb to stimulate it to contract. The remedies to be given are 
ergot, hamamelis, caulophyllum, and ipecac, in frequent doses, a rational 
alternation of any two generally being best. If neither of these remedies 



•414 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

is at hand, administer a tea prepared by pouring hot water on cinnamon or 
spices. If the patient has lost much blood, she may be stimulated with a 
little brandy and the extract of beef. Insure absolute rest. 

AFTER-PAINS. 

In their first confinement women do not often suffer from after-pains, 
but each succeeding one brings an increase of the same. 

Treatment. — Since these pains result in the contraction of the womb 
and are therefore salutary, they should generally not be interfered with. If 
they are extremely severe, cimicifuga may be given every hour in doses of 
five to ten drops, or viburnum in doses of ten drops even* hour. If they 
still' continue, and each pain is followed by a discharge of clots and increased 
flow, ergot may be given in five-drop doses. Opium is sometimes needed, 
and ten to twenty drops of the tincture, or a Dover's powder, will induce 
sleep and allay the severity of the pain and restlessness. 

THE LOCHIA. 

This is the natural discharge that follows child-birth, and is variable 
in quantity and quality. During the first week it is of a red color and 
more abundant. It gradually becomes lighter, and may be yellowish, 
greenish or whitish, with a peculiar odor. Much of the disagreeable odor 
is due to a neglect of proper cleanliness. 

Treatment. — After confinement wash the parts with warm water 
at least every night and morning, then thoroughly dry them immediately. 
Change the napkins often and carefully remove all clots from the vagina. 
The removal of clots is aided by allowing the patient to sit upright the 
first time that she passes urine after delivery, and later if it is found that 
the clots have formed again. All possible pains should be taken to keep 
the bed, bedding, and clothes fresh and sweet, and the room well ventilated. 

DIET AFTER DELIVERY. 

A nourishing, easily-digested diet, including solid food, is needed after 
the first day to keep up the strength and avoid inflammation. Those fruits, 
vegetables, and other articles which so freely ^-rr.irate gas a? to cause incon- 
venience should be avoided, or taken sparingly. Mutton chop, stale 
bread with butter, milk, tea, beef-steak, oatmeal porridge, and the like, will 
agree well. For fuller remarks upon this subject, see under "Habits During 
Pregnancy " on a previous page of this chapter. 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 415 

RETENTION OF URINE. 

Treatment. — After a severe and tedious labor retention of urine is 
not uncommon. If no urine is passed within eight or ten hours after 
delivery, apply to the bladder and loins a cloth wrung out in hot water. 
This will generally be followed by a free flow of urine. If the patient 
will stand on her knees and elbows, the urine may be passed in this pos- 
ture when other expedients fail. If these measures do not effect the desired 
results, the urine is to be drawn off with a catheter in skillful hands. 

CONSTIPATION. 

The old-fashioned practice of giving castor oil and aperient pills just 
after confinement is wrong and tends to do harm. It is natural that the 
bowels remain unmoved for a few days after delivery, and this condition 
may be considered an evidence that the patient is properly gaining strength. 

Treatment. —After four or five days, if there has been no evacuation, 
an injection into the bowel of warm water should be given, whether there is 
an inclination to stool or not. This will effect the desired result without 
impairing the health of the patient. Two or three ounces of sweet oil may 
be injected into the bowel two or three hours before the warm-water injec- 
tion. Nux vomica and sulphur in alternation will generally remove any 
further tendency to constipation, though the syringe should be used if the 
circumstances call for it, as indicated by renewed constipation. 

DIARRHCEA. 

Looseness of the bowels after labor is an unfavorable condition and 
should be promptly treated, especially if it occurs during the season of the 
year when dysentery and cholera morbus prevail. 

Treatment. — Arsenicum is needed if the disorder be marked by 
vomiting after eating, great thirst with little water taken at a time, weak- 
ness and rapid exhaustion, and dark, watery discharges which are worse at 
night. Great debility from loss of blood, yellowish, watery discharges and 
a marked inclination to sweat, show a state which calls for china. Pulsa- 
tilla is to be given if the diarrhoea is caused by eating too rich food. Mer- 
curius is needed if the diarrhoea is attended with bitter, bilious vomiting. 

PUERPERAL FEVER. 

This disease, commonly known as child-bed fever, is of so grave a char- 
acter that it cannot be expected that a non-professional person would under- 



416 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

take its treatment, but it may be necessary to know what to do until the 
arrival of a physician. It is a continued fever occurring at child-birth that 
is caused by decomposing fragments of retained placenta, instrumental or 
difficult labors, foetid lochia, sudden suppression of the lochial discharge from 
taking cold, neglect of cleanliness, emotional disturbances, contagion, or 
transmission of the poison from one patient to another by the clothing of 
the physician or nurse. The symptoms of puerperal fever are slight shiver- 
ing fits, followed by an increase of temperature; more rapid j^ulse; short 
respiration; great thirst; sometimes nausea and vomiting; much tenderness 
over the region of the womb; decrease in or loss of the milk; scanty urine; 
diarrhoea; the patient lies on the back, with her knees drawn up to relieve 
the abdomen and prevent the bed-clothing from pressing too heavily; abdo- 
men bloated and tympanitic. 

Treatment. — Though it is imperative that a physician be in attend- 
ance if possible, some directions are in place here as being applicable when 
one cannot be secured. When the first indications of fever are noticed, 
aconite should be given. If relief does not promptly attend the use of aco- 
nite, follow with baptisia, particularly if the symptoms become more decided. 
Belladonna is clearly indicated by flushed face, severe headache, great rest- 
lessness, and mental distress bordering on delirium; it may be alternated 
with aconite or baptisia. Gelseminum will be useful if there be alternate 
chills and fever, thirst, hot, drenching sweats during the chill or fever, double 
vision, and pain in the back of the head and neck. Turpentine will relieve 
if there be red, dry tongue, bloated abdomen and diarrhoea. The last rem- 
edy may also be used locally in the form of hot fomentations ; put a table- 
spoonful of turpentine in one pint of hot water, wring out cloths in this, and 
apply them as hot as they can be borne to the abdomen, covering all with 
oil-silk and dry flannel cloths. 

To relieve thirst and promote perspiration, frequent small draughts of 
cold water should be given. Milk, strong beef-tea, and brandy in small 
quantities will aid in keeping up the strength. Perfect rest and quiet, with 
an absence of every appearance of excitement or alarm on the part of 
attendants, are absolutely necessary. If there is much distension or tender- 
ness of the abdomen, a bag full of dry bran may be well heated and applied, 
unless the patient complains of the weight. The vagina should be thoroughly 
cleansed three or four times a day with a solution of chlorate or permanga- 
nate of potash, made by putting fifteen grains of the chlorate or five grains 
of the permanganate in an ounce of warm water. If the discharges are 
offensive, the napkins should be changed the oftener and the parts be the 
more frequently cleansed with the lotion just mentioned. Every one should 
take strict precautions against the approach of this malady. 



MAN — THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 417 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BREASTS.— MAMMARY AB- 
SCESS. 

This affection is one of the most annoying and painful diseases of the 
nursing mother. It not only occasions great distress, but by the extended 
inflammation and subsequent suppuratiou the function of the gland may be 
destroyed and the child be deprived of its natural nourishment. It is gen- 
erally supposed that this disorder is the result of a cold, and oftentimes the 
means taken to prevent such a result are the cause of the difficulty, develop- 
ing an existing predisposition into a real attack of the inflammation. This 
predisposition often lies in some depraved state of the system, or has its 
origin in an imperfect reaction after labor. Many times the breasts are 
large and flabby, and the added weight of cloths applied to keep them warm 
brings such a strain on the attachments of the gland as to interfere with its 
function, some of the ducts are obstructed, and inflammation follows. Again, 
repeated attacks of inflammation extending for months, accompanied by 
chills and fever, are ascribed to malarial influences when the real trouble 
lies in an imperfect action of the gland due to a faulty state of the system. 
These things should be well understood by the general reader, and careful 
observance of the following rules and facts will save much suffering and 
trouble. 

(i ) One of the conditions necessary to healthy breasts is a well formed 
and fully developed nipple, that the child may be able to get a good hold and 
thus draw out the milk. Oftentimes from improper dressing or from mal- 
formation the nipple is drawn in or is imperfect, and if not attended to in 
time is a fruitful source of inflammation of the breasts. For remarks upon 
this and other abnormal conditions, refer to the article on the general care 
of the breasts. . 

(2) A bad state of health during pregnancy and a low condition of 
the system at confinement from deficient quality of the blood tend to an 
imperfect action of the breast and consequent inflammation. 

(3) Often there is a disorganized condition of the breast from birth 
which renders the gland incapable of performing its function. This is 
sometimes due to the pernicious practice which some nurses have of pinch- 
ing the breast immediately after birth, and which is fully noticed under the 
care of breasts of infants. 

This disorder consists in an erysipelatous inflammation and swelling of 
the breasts. It usually comes on wHi a chill followed by fever and more or 
less hardness and pain. As the inflammation extends the skin takes on a 
purplish hue, the secretion of milk is suppressed, and finally suppuration 
takes place in one or more parts, burrowing its way to the surface where it 
27 



418 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

may discharge through several openings. When very extensive, it results 
in loss of the gland. This extreme course, however, is not always followed; 
in fact, comparatively few cases terminate in this manner when early and 
proper treatment is observed. 

Treatment. — Much can be done to prevent inflammation, and a little 
timely attention may save weeks of suffering and danger. If the cause be 
the irritation arising from the weight of clothes or cloths, and there be pain 
and tenderness, with some swelling extending to the armpit, supporting 
straps should be applied. These consist of two straps of adhesive plaster 
two inches wide, applied to the lower side of the breast and drawn smoothly 
up on either side, extending upon the shoulder and entirely supporting the 
breast. This will usually be followed by a cessation of the pain. 

If the breasts are hard, and gentle and persistent rubbing with warm 
sweet oil and hamamelis does not give relief and soften them, the milk 
should be all drawn out and a plaster-cap be firmly applied. Cut a piece 
of adhesive plaster in a circular form large enough to cover the breast ; cut 
a hole in the center that will allow the nipple to pass through; divide the 
plaster into four or more flaps by cutting slits from the outside nearly to the 
hole in the center. Warm the plaster by means of a hot plate ; attach a flap 
to the lower side and draw its corresponding flap firmly up; so continue 
until it is all smoothly and firmly applied. The supporting straps may then 
be put on. This will usually be followed by the subsidence of pain and in- 
flammation, and the breasts will become soft and the milk return. The 
breasts should be kept warm but not burdened by heavy flannels or other 
cloths. The best protection is a layer of cotton batting covering the whole 
breast, and those of a low state of the system may nurse the child through 
an opening for the nipple, not uncovering the breast at the time. 

Should these preventive means all fail and the formation of an abscess 
follow from malformation or other causes, such means as will hasten suppu- 
ration and lessen the pain should be used. Warm fomentations should be 
put on freely, and when the abscess permits or shows at which part the sup- 
puration will take place, adhesive straps should be applied over the breast, 
except the part where suppuration exists, in such a manner as to force the 
matter to the surface, the part exposed being in the meantime covered with 
hot fomentations or lotions. The lotions may consist of lobelia tincture, 
extract of hamamelis, tincture of phytolacca (poke root), or hot water. A 
very good application may be made with one part tincture phytolacca and 
eight parts of olive oil; rub the breast thoroughly and apply with a layer of 
absorbent cotton. Poultices of flax-seed meal, pulverized elm-bark, bread 
and milk, or poppy leaves, may be found of use, and when suppuration takes 
place the opportunity to use all of them may arise. 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 419 

Aconite internally will be found useful if there be high fever, chills, 
hard, bounding pulse and thirst. Mercurius will often prevent suppuration if 
given early, and may be considered especially indicated if the tongue has a 
thick white coating, and is large and flabby. Gelseminum is useful for alter- 
nate chills and heat, and for hot, sweating fever coming on in the after part 
of the day. Phytolacca acts well when a mammary abscess is threatened. 
Give belladonna for dark-red swelling of the breast; great pain in the head; 
flushed face; throbbing, beating, stinging pain in the breast. Hepar sul- 
phuris is suitable for preventing suppuration and hastening the termination 
of the abscess when forming. 

Since mammary abscess is dependent for its formation on a depraved 
state of the system, in its prevention or cure the general tone of the health 
should be the first consideration. Such means and care as will tend to in- 
vigorate the constitution and such diet as will build up a good supply of rich 
blood will tend to bring about the desired result in the general health. 

CRACKING AND ULCERATION OF THE NIPPLES. 

This trouble, like mammary abscess, is largely dependent on the condi- 
tion of the system at child-birth, and many times the failure to cure is due to 
a depraved state. However efficient the local means used for its relief, 
attention must be given to the constitutional trouble in order to have success. 
It usually comes on immediately after the child commences to nurse, and is 
generally noticed at the base of the nipple in the form of a crack, or on the 
end as an ulceration. It is extremely painful and sometimes prevents the 
nursing of the child; this may be obviated, however, by nursing the child 
through a nipple-shield until the sore is healed. The duration depends on 
the constitutional disorder which is at the foundation of the trouble, as 
repeated outbreaks will occur until this is removed. Some cases may arise 
from mal-formation of the nipple, too small ducts for example. 

Treatment. — The same course should be taken to build up the gen- 
eral health as has been recommended for mammary abscess. The breasts 
should be soft and pliable and free from any hardness, lumps, or other con- 
ditions which prevent the free flow of milk. After the child has nursed, the 
nipple should be bathed with tepid water and dried well; after which apply 
the following lotion: 

Glycerine, pure, I ounce. 

Tannic acid, J^ drachm. 

Tincture calendula, i drachm. 

Mix. 
Apply with a pledget of absorbent cotton or lint. Remove this and 



420 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



wash the nipple before nursing. Much good can be accomplished by wear- 
ing Wansbrough's metal shields, which may be applied immediately after 
nursing. Chamomilla internally will often relieve the redness and irritation. 
If chapping or cracking takes place, give graphites every four hours. If the 
cracks deepen and are not relieved by graphites, then give sulphur three or 
four times a day. 

The mother should persist in keeping up the flow of milk by applying 
the babe to the breast, though when the nipple is very sore it should be 
nursed only once in five or six hours until relief from this affection is obtained, 
with the assurance that as the strength and general health improve, the cure 
of the nipple is certain, even if it sometimes be slow. 




SE0TI03ST II. 




THE BABE: ITS CARE AND TREATMENT. 

W ABLES of mortality present a pitiable spectacle of deaths among 
infants and young children. Of ten thousand human beings born 
about one-third die before the fifth year, nearly one-half of this 
^pJ number coming into the world lifeless or dying on the birth-bed. 
Even after the crisis of the first day has passed, a distressingly large num- 
ber pass away before reaching the age of one year, and three-fourths as 
many die before the second year closes. The first year is a critical one and 
the babe who passes it in health will be fortified against many of the ills 
which subsequently ensue. The object of this chapter is to fill a great and 
conspicuous gap, left open by books of this character, by telling the young 
mother what general care and treatment she should bestow on her babe 
during the days when she knows that it often suffers without being able to 
make known its pains and wants in an intelligible way. It is a pleasure to 
acknowledge as the source of a great part of the suggestions a little 
work entitled "What Every Mother Ought to Know," by Dr. Ellis, whose 
wide experience in the treatment of children is a sufficient guarantee of the 
value of what is offered. 

The diseases which are incident to the first few days of the child's life 
will be first considered, since their treatment more properly comes in close 
connection with that of such disorders as afflict the mother. Other diseases 
of childhood are treated in the earlier chapters of this book. 

PROTRUSION OF THE NAVEL. 

Carelessness, bad dressing of the navel, and sometimes a natural weak- 
ness of the muscles of the abdomen cause the navel to protrude. This 
condition ought not to be neglected. 

Treatment. — The navel should be gently worked back into place 
with the fingers and be held in place with a little pad made of a coin, con- 
vex button, or other body of like shape and weight, covered with several thick- 
nesses of cotton, the whole being secured by a band passed around the body. 

421 



422 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

CRYING AND RESTLESSNESS. 

Infants often cry and are restless and sleepless without any apparent 
cause. Nervous irritability from atmospheric changes and deranged diges- 
tion are among the most common causes. 

Treatment. — If any treatment is undertaken, avoid all stock "sooth- 
ing syrups" and cordials which annually kill so many children. (See 
other remarks on this topic on page 357 and in the following pages of this 
section. ) A few drops of chamomilia will usually relieve all the trouble; 
it may be alternated with aconite if fever be present. The fault is often in 
the clothing, and their removal followed bv gentle rubbing of the bodv 
will many times afford the desired relief. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

Too sudden exposure to light, contact with the discharges of the 
mother at birth, uncleanliness and a scrofulous constitution are often the 
causes of this malady. The mucous membrane lining the lids, together 
with the glands within their edges, are the diseased parts, showing redness, 
agglutination of the lids, great sensitiveness to light, and a profuse discharge 
of thick, yellow pus. 

Treatment. — Keep the eves clean by washing them often with a 
fine sponge and tepid water. U^e a camePs-hair pencil to clean under the 
lids. A solution of ten drops of fluid hydrastia in an ounce of warm water 
may be rubbed on the eyes once or twice a day, and cloths wet in the same 
may be laid on if there is much inflammation. Many times the mother's 
milk is all that is needed, a few drops being put in the eyes at each nursing. 
Cold tea and milk are good for lessening the heat and inflammation. 

"SNUFFLES."— OBSTRUCTION OF THE NOSE. 

Nurses would call a slight catarrh by the truly suggestive name 
"snuffles." Whatever be the name, the condition often seriously interferes 
with breathing and suckling, and is besides a common cause of deafness. 

Treatment. — Much relief will be afforded by smearing the inside of 
the nostrils with plain cosmoline or goose oil, applied with a camel's-hair 
brush or a very soft feather. Promote the general health. 

VOMITING. 

Some infants vomit very easily, and generally after each feeding, 
probably because they have taken more than the stomach can digest; or 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 423 

the quality of the milk may not be suited to the stomach particularly 
if it is cheesy, and there is acidity of the stomach. Tossing the child up 
and down may cause vomiting. Sudden emotions of the mother before 
nursing may also produce it. It is the precursor of many and indeed of 
most infantile diseases. 

Treatment. — Simple vomiting from overloading the stomach will 
be corrected by ipecac. If the vomiting is attended with diarrhoea, Pulsa- 
tilla will be efficacious. Avoid the causes mentioned above. 

COLIC. 

Colic and flatulency are always symptoms of deranged digestion. The 
cry caused by colic is of a spasmodic nature and is accompanied by a draw- 
ing up of the legs. There is also a rumbling noise in the bowels which 
indicates the presence of gas. The attacks may be so violent as to cause 
spasms. Many times there is a greenish diarrhoea. 

Treatment. — Chamomilla is suited to flatulence accompanied by 
greenish diarrhoea. Nux vomica is needed when the colic is attended with 
constipation. When the babe has griping pains which cause it to scream, 
give colocynth. Be sure that the milk of the mother's breast is suited to 
the babe. Imprudence of the mother, leading to a bad condition of the 
milk, is a fruitful cause of vomiting and colic. 

CHAFING.— EXCORIATIONS. 

When excoriations occur between the buttocks, in the groin, or in the 
armpits, they are generally due to negligence of requisite cleanliness, for the 
proper attention to these parts will avoid such a trouble. The removal of 
the cause is usually sufficient to effect a cure; but if there be much inflam- 
mation, the parts may be bathed in a solution of borax, twenty grains to 
an ounce of water, and cloths wet in the same may be spread upon them. 
[Boracic acid ten grains and vaseline one ounce make the best preparation. 
— Hale.] 

THE BREASTS. 

Soon after birth infants often have hard, swollen breasts, which many 
erroneously suppose contain milk. Do not squeeze them, or you may 
induce serious troubles and even life-long deformity, especially in female 
infants. Apply warm camphorated oil. If there be much pain and inflam- 
mation, applications of one part of extract of hamamelis to two of warm 
water will afford great relief. [Or tincture of poke-root, same strength. — 
Hale.] 



424 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

NURSING, FEEDING AND WEANING. 

In the first place, the mother is the only natural and desirable nurse for 
her babe. It is hoped that every woman who reads this book can truthfully 
say that the sweeping remark made by an English journal does not apply 
to her, namely, that "society has put maternity out of fashion, and the 
nursery is, nine times out of ten, a place of punishment, and not of pleasure, 
to the modern mother." If "the fashionable woman of to-day is hardly 
disposed to count her children among the goods the gods give," let us turn 
in disgust from her and hopefully declare that few women are fashionable. 
The mother should if possible keep her child at her breast — it is an un- 
natural mother who will not, if her health does not make it manifestly un- 
wise. Aside from the question of morally depraved nurses, it is best for 
the physical health of the babe that the mother give to it all personal care 
that her health and circumstances will permit — and he is less than a thought- 
ful and loving husband who does not share her toils as he can. Due atten- 
tion from the mother will ward off very many of the ills of infancy, and her 
God-given place can be filled by no nurse. Besides, she who thus nurses 
her child in nature's way fortifies herself against many "pangs and pains" 
that are the heritage of the silly votaries of fashion who choose the other 
course. The nursing at the breast is essential to the health of both mother 
and offspring. 

At the Breast. — It has been said that the highest welfare of the babe 
cannot be insured if it is separated from the mother's breast. It is presumed 
that she has so cared for this part of her organism as to favor a regular 
and adequate supply of milk; but she should know that not only does her 
diet have a marked effect on the kind of nourishment she affords her infant, 
but that anything except a calm and equable mental mood is prejudicial, as 
is also unwise physical exercise. She should avoid all violent emotions 
guard her own table against food which will derange her digestion or un- 
favorably influence the comfort of her babe. She must keep her body com- 
fortable, and free from extreme heat in particular. 

The milk that is secreted immediately after birth is absolutely essential 
to the well-being of the infant, and suckling is nature's method of provok- 
ing its secretion. If the mother experiences any irregularity in times, 
quantity, or quality of such secretion, she should consult her physician to 
ascertain the particular cause and remove it. The stomach of a new-born 
babe is very small, a fact which suggests that it is easily overloaded on the 
one hand, and that, on the other, it must frequently receive a proper amount 
of nourishment for the support and growth of the body. Give the breasts 
alternately, at intervals of an hour and a half to two hours at first, gradually 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 425 

increasing to three or four hours as the babe grows older. As a rule, no 
artificial food should be given when the natural milk is good, particularly 
before the seventh month. The mother's milk is certainly good if her babe 
thrives on it, and the health and development of the child are unquestion- 
ably most favored by the breast-milk, while its withdrawal as certainly 
entails a great part of the weakness, sickness and death of children, and is 
too often the original source of debility in after-life. The babe may be sick 
after nursing and the milk yet be of good quality. Such sickness is many 
times noticed when the child lies on the left side after suckling, because the 
liver, proportionately very large at this age, presses upon the distended 
stomach. For obvious reasons, this difficulty, if it arises while the babe is at 
the right breast, may often be corrected by simply turning the child's legs 
under the mother's right arm so that it may lie on the right side. 

Obstacles to Suckling. — Among the causes of a failure to suckle are the 
chafing, excoriation and inflammation of the breasts and nipples to which 
reference has been made. These give pain to the mother and create dis- 
gust in the babe. Sometimes the babe refuses to take the breast, especially 
during the first day or two, because mucus or perspiration adheres to the 
nipple or breast, and the parts should evidently be bathed with a little warm 
water and be well and gently dried before they are given to the child. In 
such a case, and in others in which the babe refuses the nipple, it will be 
well to put some sugar on the nipple or smear it with cream. As simple a 
thing as awkwardness on the part of the mother is sometimes the reason for 
the babe not taking the breast — and she must prescribe for herself, for we 
cannot. Few things are so conducive to irregularity in suckling as the prac- 
tice of giving the child the breast whenever it cries. Oftentimes this is just 
the wrong thing to do, for a deranged stomach is quite apt to be the cause 
of the crying and evidently does not call for food. A good rule upon the 
intervals between the times of suckling was given above and it is of the 
highest importance that regularity be maintained. Giving the breast at all 
times, day and night, is very bad, spoiling and injuring the child and caus- 
ing weariness in the mother. It is easy to train the child to regularity in 
this matter. Though one breast may secrete milk more freely than another, 
it is wrong to use one exclusively, or even to offer it very much more fre- 
quently than the other. No mother should conclude that she is unfitted to 
nurse her babe until she has considered all of these points and others which 
may apply especially to her case. 

The Wet-Nurse. — If for any reason the mother cannot safely keep her 
babe at the breast, a wet-nurse should be secured if possible, one whose 
health is as nearly perfect as can be secured, with a skin free from sores, her 
own child being in perfect health and of the age of the one which she is to 



426 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

nurse. She should have a good family history in health and morals. If 
a trial shall show that the babe does not thrive on her milk, and that no 
successful correctives can well adapt her to its wants, a change should be 
sought. Before the change is made, however, it may be well to see whether 
the diet of the nurse is not at fault. A wet-nurse who is brought from 
a simple mode of life into a home of plenty or luxur}-' is generally fed too 
freely, for the purpose of insuring a full supply of milk, and the almost in- 
variable result is a decline in the quality of her milk. Her food should be 
more nearly like what she has been accustomed to, provided it be whole- 
some and in an adequate quantity. 

By Hand. — If a wet-nurse can not be secured when the mother is 
clearly unable to nurse her babe, it unfortunately becomes necessary to feed 
by hand, even though it is known that the chances of maintaining life are 
sadly against the babe. Though goat's milk is the best substitute for that 
of the woman, it is so difficult to obtain that the next best, that of the cow, 
must generally be used. Extreme care should be taken to get it from a 
young, healthy cow, taking the supply from the same one all the time if 
possible. At any rate, the animal which furnishes the milk must receive an 
adequate amount of the most wholesome food, avoiding many kinds of 
green weeds and other articles which give the milk an unpleasant taste or 
odor. For young infants the milk should be as fresh as possible, and be di- 
luted by adding an equal amount of tepid or hot water. In many cases, 
when the child throws up the milk in lumps, it will be necessarv to reduce 
it still more, perhaps even using one part of milk to two of water. As the 
child grows older, lessen the amount of water. To each pint of the dilu- 
tion add a drachm of powdered loaf sugar (never brown sugar), or better 
still, sugar of milk, and a few grains of fine salt may be put in with 
profit. Add two grains of finely powdered phosphate of lime. If the milk 
curdles, a teaspoonf ul or two of lime-water may be beneficially added to a 
pint. If the milk is persistently thrown up in lumps from the stomach, the 
amount of lime-water may be increased if it does not provoke vomiting. 
Such untoward consequences may be largely avoided by care in keeping 
the bottle strictly clean, cleansing it after each feeding to remove all sour- 
ness and coagulation. It is best to have two bottles, changing and cleans- 
ing every four hours. The milk should be given at a temperature of 98° 
F. If cow's milk disagrees, give five to ten drops of pancreatic emulsion 
twice daily in a teaspoonful of sweetened water to assist digestion. This 
will often afford the desired relief, too, from various disorders of the stomach 
and bowels of infants. 

A Sad but Common Experience. — When a child is deprived of the 
breast-milk and sustained by an artificial diet, it is very liable to a sad de- 



MAN — THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 427 

cline. At first it simply fails to thrive and is more or less fretful, but little 
notice is perhaps taken of the warning; then the flesh loses some of its 
firmness; the child is sick once or twice daily; the bowels are a little loose, 
the discharges perhaps clayey and offensive; the sleep is disturbed, the eye- 
lids being open a little. If still neglected, the child becomes very ill, has a 
bad diarrhoea, the discharges changing often in character, causing a red 
irritation about the anus and on the buttocks; the appetite is lost; the child 
cries or moans nearly all the time, and rapidly loses flesh; the eyes are 
bright; the cheeks are sunken; the soft spot on the head falls in; the 
mouth is sore and drawn down, perhaps with cracks in the corners, and 
with aphthse on the tongue and roof of the mouth. The diarrhoea ad- 
vances; extreme thirst causes the child to receive any article of food or 
drink that will soothe its burning mouth, and this may lead to the impres- 
sion that the child is hungry, though the passage of undigested food from 
the bowels shows one her mistake. Then the brain is involved; the babe 
utters shrill cries which die away in moans, the end is near, and if the milk 
of a healthy woman is not supplied, fatal results ensue. Such a resort 
should be had from the appearance of the first symptoms; indeed, it is this 
which may entirely ward off this very common and distressing complaint 
of children. Many deaths occur from "summer-complaint" (!) when the 
real difficulty is the withdrawal of the health-giving milk of the breast. 

By furnishing milk from a healthy woman the whole difficulty, 
even in its advanced stages, will usually be rapidly corrected. As 
was previously suggested, some of the symptoms may be successfully 
treated by adding more lime-water to the cow's milk which is given, or by 
substituting condensed milk. An invaluable aid in removing this difficulty, 
as well as others in which the bowels are deranged, cholera infantum in- 
cluded, is raw beef. Cut a piece across the grain and scrape off as much 
of the pulp as possible, leaving the fibers; then slice off the ends of the 
fibers and thus make another surface to be scraped as before. Add a little 
salt and pepsin to the pulp and feed it to the babe. If it is too weak to take 
it of its own accord, good results may be obtained by squirting the juice of 
raw beef into the mouth, a teaspoonful at a time. In some cases the babe 
will suck strips of raw beef. In any of these forms such treatment will 
have very beneficial effects. Since the substitutes for the mother's milk are 
often the cause of this difficulty, we here give one that has been frequently 
used with excellent results: In a half pint of hot water dissolve one tea- 
spoonful of loaf sugar, or sugar of milk, and a pinch of salt; stir in one 
tablespoonful of gelatine until it dissolves; add a half-pint of new cow's- 
milk and a tablespoonful of lime-water, stirring well, and then putting into 
a bottle for use. Again, ten or fifteen drops of Murdock's Liquid Food 



428 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

may be given three or four times a day with gratifying results. One babe 
may be benefited by one expedient and a second one by another. 

Change to Other Food. — A good substitute for cow's milk is found in 
fresh, carefully prepared condensed milk. The various prepared foods for 
infants do not contain the universal virtue that is claimed for them. Hor- 
lick's, Mellen's, Neave's, Nestle's and Imperial Granum all have some merit 
and one or more of them may, upon trial, be found suitable for a given babe, 
and others may hereafter be added to the list. But whatever artificial food 
is given, it should, as a rule, not be used more than twice in twenty-four hours, 
from the fourth to the seventh, eighth or ninth month, while the babe is at 
the breast. When weaning is commenced, it may be given oftener. In all 
cases, however, the transition to it from the milk-diet is to be gradual. 
The mother must use her judgment, aided by observation of the needs of 
her babe, for it is impossible that printed directions can apply to all cases. 
One child will assimilate an amount which would be highly prejudicial to 
another. Such foods are especially liable to disagree during the first three 
months. 

Flesh-food is to be avoided until the eye-teeth and first molars are devel- 
oped — an observation which contravenes the practice of most mothers and 
nurses. One of the commonest mistakes is in feeding children too often, 
though the other extreme is far from unknown. Too frequent eating, 
especially if sweetmeats and other indigestible articles are given, is the 
source of countless ills and pains of children. The intervals between feed- 
ing and the quantities given must be largely regulated by the constitution, 
temperament and age of the child, and a reasonable observation and experi- 
ence must be the guide. If the babe is in health, its own inclination is a 
fair guide in these matters when it is at the breast. In feeding from a 
bottle, about four ounces at a feeding and at intervals of two hours at first, 
the bottle being given three times during the night, will be about the rule. 
After that age, both the quantity and intervals may be gradually increased, 
the periods being about three hours each, the bottle being furnished twice 
during the night and the quantity increased, as the child grows older, 
until it is satisfied. 

Weaning. — This should be effected between the ninth and twelfth 
months, being completed by the end of the year. To be sure, circumstances 
may require it earlier. It should be brought about gradually, the babe be- 
ing accustomed to artificial food as suggested above, until the breast is given 
only at night, and then not at all. Begin when the child is in health, at 
least free from acute ailments; but be firm when the effort is once made, 
unless positive illness results, which is not often the case. If the child is 
willful and persistently seeks the breast, it will be serviceable to put upon 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 429 

the nipple some bitter but harmless preparation to create an aversion to it. 
The babe which is slow in getting its teeth should be nursed longer, but 
should at the same time take one to two grains of phosphate of lime three 
or four times a day to promote the growth of the teeth. See Dentition. 

CLOTHING AND BATHING. 

Clothing. — The child's abdominal bandage should not be left off be- 
fore the third month; and it should be continued beyond that time if there 
be a straining cough, or if the child cries violently a good deal. During 
the early years of a child's life, and particularly during the first, too little 
warmth is often insured by clothing. It should be remembered that the babe 
is delicately susceptible to cold. While coddling is injurious, the clothing 
should be light and warm, the feet, abdomen and lungs being especially 
protected. The flannel shirt should be continued until after teething if the 
mother would mitigate the diarrhoea, chills and other symptoms of that try- 
ing period. Of course the clothing should be loose, so as to afford free play 
to the vital organs. The conventional long dresses are ridiculous and have 
only the merit of warmth for the feet, and secure this at the expense of con- 
venience. In summer, short clothes should be put on in two months; in 
winter, in the third month. Flannels are frequently changed too often. 
Two such changes a week are as many as should be made, and the flannels 
will not become too much soiled if the body is kept clean by bathing. 

As the child grows older due allowance must be made for climate and 
different seasons; yet it is well to continue the use of flannel night-dresses as 
a guard against the colds so often contracted when the bedding is thrown 
off in sleep. If the child is delicate, the dress should come up so as to fully 
protect the chest. In general, let the clothing be clean, loose and light, 
warm in winter and cool in summer, the shoes and stockings being partic- 
ularly warm and dry. Of course the weight of the clothes should rest 
upon the shoulders, not on the waist or thighs, and elastic suspenders will 
take the place of garters — any other adjustment betrays .too much igrorance 
for the present day. 

Bathing. — Thorough cleanliness by bathing will certainly keep off 
many affections of the skin and promote the general health, but some 
mothers do not know that water applied to the surface is among the most 
powerful agents, and they wash and scrub most industriously — when they 
are not stuffing the babe's stomach. Some children may thrive upon a full 
bath once or twice daily, but the greater number cannot stand one so often. 
The use of a soft sponge once or twice a day, with barely enough water to 
insure cleanliness, with a fuller bath once in three to five days, is the safer 



430 • COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

rule for most children. For an infant, use water at a temperature of about 
97°F. This may be gradually lowered until the child is a year old, when it 
may be 85 or even 8o°. Too much care cannot be exercised in select- 
ing the soap for. these baths, for irritation and excoriation of the skin may be 
induced. Many kinds are prepared expressly for use on children, and that 
one should be adopted which experience dictates. Brisk but gentle dry 
friction should be applied after the bath until a pronounced glow is produced 
on the skin. 

Though the temperature is as a rule to be lowered as the child grows 
older, some children shiver and become blue after a cold bath, indicating 
that the temperature is too cold. For delicate children, a little sea-salt may 
be added to the bath with benefit, the water being warm at first and grad- 
ually lowered from day to day if the proper reaction is experienced. The 
greatest danger in baths, aside from applying them too frequently, is that 
they will be too long-continued when they are used, thus producing weak- 
ness and exposing the child to colds. In the following chapter the reader 
will find notes on the use of baths in sickness, and she will exercise her 
judgment in applying them to the babe, remembering that she is dealing 
with a constitution delicate by nature and more sensitive from disease. 

SLEEP AND EXERCISE 

Sleep. — The younger the child the more sleep it requires. The babe 
does little but eat, sleep — and cry. Let the infant sleep when it is so in- 
clined, and train the older child to take a sleep during the day until it is at 
least three years of age, longer if it will. If the babe does not sleep well, 
be sure to keep it comfortably warm, guard the diet, and avoid "soothing 
syrups" and other means of murdering infants. Read the remarks on page 
357 about "Poisonous Medicines." Dr. Ellis says: " Mrs. Winslow's Sooth- 
ing Syrup, called also Quietness (appropriate name), resembles syrup of 
poppies. Its effects are those of a narcotic. Two doses of this once caused 
the death of a child aged fifteen months, with the usual signs of narcotic 
poison. One ounce contains one grain of morphia, with other opium alka- 
loids. It is not surprising that it should prove fatal to infants in small doses." 
The same author says that fifty-six deaths were recorded as resulting from 
the use of Godfrey's Cordial; that a dose of forty drops of Dalby's Car- 
minative is reported to have destroyed life in an infant; that Atkinson's 
Infant Preservative contains a drachm of laudanum to the pint — it is not 
necessary to mention the other ingredients where the deadly laudanum is so 
plentiful; that Keyes' Infant Preservative is like Atkinson's and Godfrey's, 
only stronger and more dangerous; that Steedman's and Stedman's Powders 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BARE. 481 

are " the cause of great evil and even mortality among children," and that 
either of them " contains three-quarters of a grain of calomel !" He closes 
by saying: "I have an equal objection to worm powders; worm cakes; 
worm lozenges of all kinds. Calomel, jalap and santonine make up the bulk 
of these. You cannot tell the quantities nor proportions. It is infinitely 
better and cheaper in the long run (and that element seems to govern all 
things medical) to ask a respectable doctor to prescribe some worm medicine 
suitable to the kind of worms your child suffers from, and also suitable to its 
constitution and actual state, things which empirical remedies are far too free 
and aspiring to be shackled by." What mother among our readers will now 
turn from these words and deliberately poison her babe so that she may 
leave it, or so that it may *top its harmless crying? 

Exercise. — Muscles were made for use and exercise, and the babe 
forms no exception. Of course the back and neck are so weak at first that 
they must always be carefully supported when the babe is not lying down. 
But even before it can sit up it should have that kind of recreation which it 
will take in rolling, kicking, slapping and laughing, if it has a chance. To 
give it full play, loose its clothing, including the napkin, lay it on a rug or 
bed, and let it play. This will often stop the crying which is generally the 
signal for another poor kind of exercise, which consists in tossing the babe 
into the air and handling it roughly in other ways. It may be said in passing 
that the very common practice of trotting the babe on the knee is a bad one, 
and conduces to derangements of the stomach and brain in particular. After 
a time the babe will get more exercise in creeping and walking, though these 
are not to be encouraged beyond the child's strength. The trundle is an 
excellent aid in learning to walk and in walking thereafter. 

But none of these can take the place of daily open-air recreation, 
either in the arms or in the cab, when the weather will permit. Give the 
babe an abundance of fresh air and sunlight if you would have it evince 
health and good humor. After it has left the arms, outdoor sports should be 
provided. See that the nursery is high, light, well ventilated, with the ther- 
mometer at from 65 ° to 70 ° F. Add the attractions of pictures, tools, chalk, 
blackboards, — anything to afford pure and agreeable amusement, and you 
will thus do much to hold the children at home, and protect them against 
immoral influences. Do not make the nursery an unwelcome place by 
reason of irksome exactions in lessons during the first years when the 
muscles are soon worn and the brain easily wearied by study. 

IS THE BABY SICK? 

This is often one of the most difficult questions to answer to one's 
satisfaction. How often the anxious mother knows that something is 



432 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



wrong with her babe, and yet is not sure whether it is sick or not; or, if 
she decides that it is, cannot determine the seat or nature of the ailment. 
Since the babe is so completely helpless and unable to make its sufferings 
definitely known, it is evident that the mother must be guided very largely 
by her own observations. Even if she calls a physician, he must depend 
much more upon what she can tell than when called to see an older child. 
It is therefore imperative that, whether in treatment by herself or by the 
doctor, her information be exact and ftdl, not indefinite or exaggerated. 
It is not the purpose to treat here the diseases of the babe, as they have 
been considered in previous pages; but some admirable notes by Dr. Ellis 
are appropriated, with minor changes, to direct the mother in deciding what 
disorder is affecting her babe. The thoughtful woman will spend a good 
deal of time in studying these indications from the beginning of her babe's 
life, so that she may detect the first signs of sickness. 

Expression of the Countenance. — This is very characteristic and 
remarkable in sick children. ( i ) Mere redness and flushing indicate a state 
of fever. (3) A deeper redness with alternate pallor and knitted brow means 
brain-trouble of some kind. (3) If squinting be superadded, or the pupils 
of the eyes are unequal in size, and especially if insensible to light (not 
shrinking before a lighted candle, for example), convulsions may be looked 
for at any moment, and whether convulsions occur or not, brain-mischief is 
imminent, or has actually commenced. (4) If the child's head becomes 
larger in proportion to the face, with protuberant forehead and sunken eyes, 
water on the brain is to be feared. (5) There is the over-bright eye, with 
too clear a complexion, long, fine hair, distinct veins, oval face, and early 
intelligence, which characterize tuberculosis, or disposition to consumption. 
(6) There is the thick and muddy-looking skin, thick upper lip, wide 
nostrils, thickened at the sides or " wings," the ready enlargement of 
glands of the neck behind the ear, or anywhere, and the backward temper- 
ament of scrofula. (7) There is the profuse perspiration of the head, the 
kicking off of the clothes at night, the general tenderness of the whole 
body, the child disliking to be touched, the old, care-worn look, bending 
bones with large ends, backwardness in cutting teeth and walking, which 
indicate rickets. (8) There is the "snuffling," flabby muscle, brown, 
cracked, rough, unwholesome-looking skin, with "spots" and "lumps" 
about the buttocks, the hair often falling off from eyelashes or eyebrows, 
the corners of the mouth and nose ulcerated, sundry breakings out of a 
coppery color, etc., which indicate a yet severer constitutional complaint, 
which, like the others mentioned, inquires the early and careful attention 
of a skillful medical man. (9) An extremely contracted pupil, with a 
brilliant look of the eve indicates an overdose of opium, no uncommon 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 433 

condition for a child whose mother administers " soothing- syrups," " cor- 
dials," and the like. (10) On the other hand, tears, full, swollen eyes, and 
redness, may mean a bad influenza, cold, or an indication of coming 
measles; ( 1 1 ) similar symptoms, with much nervous excitability, vomiting, 
and a little cough, are the forerunners of whooping-cough. (12) A dark, 
" brick-red " flush, with swollen features, rapid breathing, and working of 
the nostrils, indicate inflammation of the lungs. (13) Lividity of the lips 
and general duskiness of the face are present in diseases causing urgent 
difficulty of breathing. (14) In diseases of the abdomen there is a well- 
marked, fretful look, with pinched nose, sunken eyes, and dark rings round 
the mouth and under the eyes. 

Summary, — The upper portion of the face is affected chiefly in dis- 
eases of the brain, causing knitted brow, contracted forehead, rolling, fixed, 
or purposeless eyes. The middle portions of the face are changed in heart 
and lung affections; the nostrils are sharp, or distended, or working, and 
there is a bluish circle round the mouth, and dark rings under the eyes. 
The lower portion of the face suffers most in abdominal troubles; the 
cheeks are pale, sunken, puckered, the mouth drawn, the lips livid or pale. 

Gestures and Comportment. — -Listlessness, indisposition to move, 
and downright languor are early signs in the demeanor of a sick child. 
" He cannot hold his head up," is a significant phrase. (1) During acute 
pain a child keeps wonderfully still, dreading to move either the entire body 
or the affected limb which causes the pain. (2) An infant with abdominal 
pain draws its feet up to its stomach. (3) A child with pain or irritation 
in the brain puts its hand to its head, pulls at its hair or any covering that 
may be on the head, beats the air uncertainly, rolls the back of the head 
to and fro on the pillow. (4) In bad abdominal disease the legs are drawn 
up, the face is anxious and sunken, and the child picks at the bed-clothes. 
(5) In urgent difficulty of breathing it tears at its throat, puts its hand in 
its mouth, especially when false membranes are forming or the tongue is 
much furred and cracked. (6) Sleep of disturbed character, with grinding 
of the teeth, and by day picking of the nose, are characteristic signs of 
worms. (7) Disturbed sleep, with so-called "sardonic smile," may mean 
only wind and flatulence, but if in addition the thumbs are turned in on the 
palm, and the toes are also rigid and a little inverted, an attack of convul- 
sions is likely to be imminent. (8) The child sits upright in urgent diffi- 
culty of breathing, squeezing its hands against its throat. (9) It lies on 
one side, the legs strongly bent, and the arms drawn close to or over the 
chest, in the later stages of tubercular meningitis and some other brain- 
affections. 

The Cry. — ( 1 ) It is labored, as if half suffocated, or as if a door 
28 



434 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

were shut between the child and the hearer, in inflammation of the lungs 
and capillary bronchitis. (2) It is hoarse in croup, brassy and metallic, 
with crowing inspirations. (3) In brain-disease, especially hydrocephalus, 
it is sharp, shrill and solitary, not easily to be forgotten when once heard; 
whereas in marasmus and tubercular peritonitis it is moaning and wailing. 
(4) Obstinate and long-continued crying, lasting for hours, is referable 
usually either to hunger or earache. (5) A moderate and rather peevish 
cry, attendant on suppressed cough, dry and low in character, is indicative 
of pneumonia. (6) A louder, shriller cry, also during coughing, or pro- 
duced by movement, is pleuritic. (7) A cry accompanied by wriggling 
and writhing, and preceding the stools, is intestinal. (8) Moaning is espe- 
cially characteristic of disease of the alimentary canal. (9) Children shed 
no tears before the third or fourth month, and the saliva appears about the 
third month. In children from two to seven years shedding tears is a 
favorable sign; the absence of them is the reverse. 

The Pulse. — The pulse is not an indication by which a mother can 
learn much in infants; the different qualities of the pulse are scarcely 
recognizable. There may be great variation in the number of beats con- 
sistently with health — there may be even irregularity consistently with 
health. The pulse is some fifteen or twenty beats slower during sleep, and 
also more regular; but sudden awakening or any agitation will often send 
the pulse up thirty or forty beats in the minute. 

Respiration. — The respiration in early infancy is irregular, like the 
pulse; the average of thirty-nine or forty breathings per minute may 
become seventy or eighty under any sudden excitement. During sleep 
respiration is more tranquil and regular. (1 ) In disease of the throat there 
is noisy breathing. (2) In bronchial and pneumonic attacks there is hur- 
ried, gasping, even panting breathing. (3) During acute pain, whether in 
the pleura or abdomen, the breathing is a caught," stopped short by the 
pain, jerky and restrained in character. (4) Sighing breathing occurs 
sometimes in brain-disease. 

Temperature. — A doctor would often be glad if a mother would 
register the temperature of her child for him at certain hours of the day. 
It is easily done; a thermometer proper for the purpose (called a clinical 
thermometer) is put under the armpit and left there for four or five min- 
utes; children soon allow it to be done when they find that it does not 
hurt. The index of the instrument marks the degrees. In health it should 
be about 99 ° F.; any rise over ioo° means feverishness; a rise to 103° 
or 104 indicates fever or inflammation; a further rise to 106 or 107 indi- 
cates a very serious and even dangerous state of things. Nothing can be 
simpler than thermometer observations, and being absolutely accurate, are 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 435 

most valuable to the physician. It is surprising how the hand deceives; 
we think a child burning when the thermometer assures us the blood-heat is 
not really very high; we think the heat of the skin ordinary when the 
index shows perhaps 105 . Looking to the uncertain indications of the 
pulse and respiration in children, the thermometer becomes the more 
valuable. 

The Mouth, Breath, Skin, etc. — The mouth should be moist, 
cool, pale; the breath sweet; the skin firm, smooth, elastic to the touch, 
the surface mottled ; the arms and legs moving freely. ( 1 ) Fever, dysen- 
teric diarrhoea and ulcerated mouth cause heat and dryness of the mouth, 
cracked lips, and hot, sour breath. (2) Aphtha, or thrush, is common in 
infants, from improper feeding and gastric and intestinal irritation. (3) In 
a low "typhoid" state, thrush is often significant of the end being near. 

(1) Flabby skin and flesh mean that the child is not thriving. (2) A 
hot, dry skin is present in all inflammatory and febrile attacks. (3) A 
clammy skin indicates collapse and weakness. (4) Spots on the skin are 
most characteristic of certain diseases, as the lake-colored, horseshoe-shaped 
blotches of measles; (5) the flush, like a scald from boiling water, of scar- 
latina; (6) the vesicle of smallpox and the like. (7) There is the mud- 
colored skin of chronic diarrhoea, a leaden hue, very remarkable when once 
seen; (8) the yellow color of jaundice; (9) the blue of cyanosis; (10) 
and the purplish tinge of impending suffocation. 

The Tongue. — The following are the chief indications derivable 
from observations of the tongue: (1) A furred tongue, with whitish curd 
scattered over it, indicates dyspepsia and intestinal irritation. (2) A red, 
dry, hot tongue points to inflammation of the mouth, stomach, etc. (3) 
Aphtha, or thrush, when not an affection of infancy, is often associated with 
extreme exhaustion, lowness, and typhoidal condition. (4) A pale, flabby 
tongue, marked at the edges with the teeth, shows great debility. (5) 
White fur is generally indicative of fever. (6) Yellow fur indicates dis- 
order of the liver and stomach, and intestinal affections. (7) Brown fur is 
indicative of a low typhoidal state. (8) A red, glazed tongue and a "raw- 
beef" tongue indicate disordered state of the mucous membrane of the stom- 
ach. (9) The so-called "strawberry tongue" is produced when the 
white fur begins to clear off after the third day or so of scarlet fever, and 
leaves the tongue deep red, broad, smoother looking, and dotted over with 
elevated papillae, not unlike a strawberry in appearance. 

Vomiting. — (1) The vomiting of young infants is often simply from 
over- feeding ; they suck in more than the stomach can deal with. (2) But 
constant vomiting is a very serious matter, and may mean disease of the 
brain, besides being referable to disordered stomach, dyspepsia, intestinal 



436 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

irritation, and other causes. (3) When indicative of disease of the brain, it 
is generally a very early symptom, and comes on independently of any 
food being taken; it is, in fact, persistent and apparently causeless. This 
in a child of three or four years is a most serious sign and requires prompt 
medical aid. (4) Vomiting is often an early precursor of some kind of fever, 
as measles or scarlatina ; also of acute inflammations. (5) Whooping-cough is 
generally accompanied with vomiting at the close of the paroxysms. 

Evacuation's. — The healthy motion of an infant varies in color from 
a light orange yellow to a greenish yellow — from yolk-of-egg color to that 
of a mess of mustard. The reaction is always acid. The smell should 
never be offensive, but resembling that of sour milk. The consistence may 
vary considerably within healthy limits. The first motions of an infant are 
black and viscid. The frequency of the infantile motions varies from two to 
four daily — and all through childhood the bowels are rather oftener relieved 
than in adult life. Constipation is rare; diarrhoea is common. (1) Motions 
containing a slimy, mucus-like jelly indicate the presence of worms. (2) 
Offensive, acid, pale-green motions indicate disordered stomach. (3) Dark- 
green evacuations indicate stomach disease of more serious character (calo- 
mel will, however, cause green motions, likened by writers to chopped 
spinach). (4) Foetid, dark-brown motions are present in chronic diarrhoea. 
(5) Putty-like, pasty motions are due to acidity curdling the milk, and to 
sluggishness of the liver — the bile secreted being deficient in quantity. 

The urine of infants is, of course, voided in the napkins. When these 
are pungent and the stain is dark, the urine is acrid and will easily inflame and 
irritate the surrounding parts in contact with it. Sponging with plenty of 
warm water, careful drying, and dusting with a little finely powdered arrow- 
root or the like, will be necessary. (2) The urine is often white and milky- 
looking when worms are present. 

General Observations. — ( 1 ) In early childhood there is no relation 
between the intensity of the symptoms and the material lesion. The most 
intense fever, with restlessness, cries, and spasmodic movements, may dis- 
appear in twenty-four hours without leaving any traces. (2) Abundant 
perspiration is not observed in very young children; it is entirely replaced 
by moisture. (3) Fever always presents considerable remissions in the acute 
diseases of young children. (4) In the chronic diseases of infancy fever is 
almost always intermittent. (5) When children are asleep their pulse di- 
minishes from fifteen to twenty pulsations. (6) The muscular movements 
which accompany cough, crying, agitation, etc., raise the pulse fifteen, thirty 
or even forty pulsations. ( 7) A child grows most rapidly in the first weeks 
of life; in the first year it should grow from 6 to 7 inches; from the 4th to 
the 16th year, about 2 inches yearly; from the 16th to the 17th year, 1% 



MAN THE MOTHER AND HER BABE. 437 

inches; from the 17th to the 20th year, 1 inch. Disease of the bones, rickets 
and scrofula retard growth. (8) A child should run alone at the end of 
a twelvemonth, and if when it has commenced to walk it uses chiefly its 
toes, and has a limping gait, more especially if pain be complained of in one 
knee, and tenderness be caused by handling the limb, incipient hip-joint 
disease may be inferred. Such an indication requires prompt advice. 

By a study of the above indications of health and disease the mother 
will often know at once whether she can safely treat the child herself or 
must call the doctor. In either case she should be prompt in what is done, for 
a few hours in diseases of children make more difference than in those of 
later years. It is almost if not quite the rule that the doctor is called later 
than he ought to be. Train the child to put out the tongue for examination, 
and thus save yourself a great deal of trouble; teach the child to regard the 
doctor as a kind friend; never threaten it with a call from the doctor, as if 
he were some dreaded person, lest you defeat all good from his treatment; 
use tact, firmness, kindness and forbearance. 

Call the Doctor. — The following six groups of symptoms, from the 
book, previously named, require the prompt attendance of the doctor: ( 1 ) A 
little poorliness, deepening perhaps toward evening to feverishness, with 
shivering. (2) Poorliness, feverishness, and hoarseness. (3) Poorliness, 
drowsiness, and stupor. (4) Poorliness, feverishness, and vomiting. (5) 
Headache, pains, disinclination to be touched, vomiting. (6) Diarrhoea and 
vomiting in young infants. 

Doses. — When medicine is given to children it is very often administered 
in improper doses. It is impossible to give a rule that will apply 
to all cases, for what is the best for one may be highly injurious for 
another. The mother must be guided largely by her good sense and 
observation — and she will carefully notice, for instance, whether her babe is 
more delicate than the average at its age, and thus unfitted to take the aver- 
age dose. The following table is a fair general guide, but is subject to the 
cautions just given. 

Assuming 5 grains, drops, etc., as suitable for a child of 1 year, 
then 2 " " will be " " " 6 months 

j u u a 14 u cc -j a 

8 " " " " " " 2 years 

jq a « M a a u ■} a 

j- u a a a u u . u 

20 " " " " " " 7 " 

30 " " " " ." " 14 " 

For ages not mentioned here the dose can be rationally adjusted by 
proper divisions of the amount, or by altering the frequency. 




CHAPTER XIV. 
MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 

A COMPARISON. 

THOUGH the two extremes of life, infancy and old age, present some 
& striking contrasts, they are otherwise marked by no less striking re- 
semblances. In one, the constitution has not attained to its destined 
c^rJ vigor; in the other, it is losing it. In either case we detect not only 
a feebleness which calls for the special attention of those who are in fuller 
enjoyment of strength, but also a likeness in diseases — convulsions of in- 
fants and convulsions of the aged; diarrhoea of infancy and diarrhoea of old 
age; infantile eczema and senile eczema, etc. Hence, we see that the 
"second childhood" is more than a fiction, more a matter of important phy- 
sical conditions than many suppose, and less a manifestation of perverseness, 
less a subject for adverse or patronizing remarks. In offering this chapter 
we desire to assume that all its readers are reverent toward the aged, and 
trust that some words will be uttered which will serve as aids to their filial 
affection in its impulses to relieve the burdens and pains of declining years. 
It is important for one to know that certain changes and conditions are to 
be expected and cannot be wholly avoided or corrected, and that, on the 
other hand, some which are to be equally expected can and should receive 
care and treatment. 

It is not our purpose to give detailed medical treatment for the ills which 
afflict the old, for that is fully set forth in previous chapters. Nor do we 
confine ourselves to observations upon extreme old age, as marked by dot- 
age and childishness, but shall consider topics of essential moment to all who 
are passing down toward the sunset of life. Again, it is not here in place 
to give a full picture of such decline, with those particulars which are famil- 
iar to all and subject to no effectual correction, as the slowing step and un- 
graceful halt, the wasting flesh and wrinkled skin, the failing eye and ear. 
These can, it is true, be measurably modified by proper care, but only the 
requisite observance of the laws of health in the earlier years can be followed 
by the most desirable results. The present need is an examination of some 

438 



MAN MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 439 

special functions and habits which demand our thought and assistance. The 
charming treatise of Dr. Fothergill will be freely used, as being particularly 
valuable and suited to our purposes. His own language will be used in the 
main, though he is not responsible for the whole. 

The Digestive Organs.— -In mature age there is no longer that keen 
relish for food which is so characteristic of youth, nor the same ease of 
digestion; but the appetite falls off or requires the stimulus of temptation 
in the nature of the viands themselves. But such constantly recurring 
temptation tends to weaken the digestive organs, and rich food and gener- 
ous wine may only be consumed with impunity when taken in moderation. 
As time goes on, first one thing is found to disagree and then another, a little 
-only being tolerated at first, but ultimately total abstinence is necessitated, — 
pno portion, however small, is without its disturbing effect. No rules can be 
Jlaid down as to this, for one thing will disagree with one and another with 
•another. Quantity, however, is always an important matter, and small loads 
lalone can be borne by the enfeebled organs. Digestion is much slower as 
well as less vigorous in the old, and consequently easily digestible food be- 
comes necessary. The richer dishes and savory food once so esteemed are 
gradually given up, after repeated admonitions; and the quantity of meat, 
especially lean meat, consumed is usually much diminished, instinctively and 
intuitively. There is, indeed, a distinct tendency to return to the simpler 
forms of food proper to and preferred during childhood. In very old people 
the diet becomes once more largely farinaceous and saccharine, and meat is 
little craved after. This is a fortunate selective choice, as the digestibility 
of these forms of food suits the enfeebled organs. 

The Bowels. — While the stomach has lost much of its power and the 
digestion is impaired, the action of the bow T els has lost much of its pristine 
energy, and constipation is commonly present and a great source of discom- 
fort. Laxatives are often found indispensable, and the mineral waters of 
Vichy, Carlsbad, Pullna, and Friedrichshall are indicated, and form with a 
glass of wine a useful and not unpalatable medicine as well as a beverage. 
Some such medication is indicated in most elderly people whose digestive 
systems are very sensitive to any load in the bowels. There is another 
strong reason why such medications should be resorted to, viz., the injurious 
effects of straining at stool upon the different parts of the body. This should 
always be avoided, and if the bowels dp not move easily the attempt should 
be desisted from, and some time allowed to elapse, and if necessary some 
medicine taken, ere another attempt be made. Long exposure to cold 
should also be avoided, and the elderly should avoid closets or privies which 
are so situated as to be cold or draughty. Piles or haemorrhoids are also 
outcomes of neglected bowels. In many cases the injection may be resorted 



440 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

to with advantage, especially to avoid straining, and it is the safest, easiest 
and most efficacious expedient. A caution is needed at this point: it is 
natural that the bowels act less often in old age than in earlier life, and the 
failure to evacuate them daily is not to be taken as a signal for treatment, 
because it does not necessarily, or generally, indicate a condition that should 
be called constipation. 

The Liver. — This attention to the bowels is desirable for its effects upon 
other organs, and especially upon the liver. In early and adult life the ex- 
ercise taken is usually sufficient to maintain the action of the liver and to 
secure its efficient working; but as age creeps on and the locomotive powers 
are affected, the liver is deprived of these collateral aids, and so is liable to 
be laden with bile and to be easily deranged. An accumulation is not so 
easily cast off now as it was when the bowels were active, and so slighter 
causes are found to be disturbing and restoration to the healthy condition is 
slower and less easily effected. Rich food, especially when consisting largely 
of fat, is very apt to disagree with elderly people, and they commonly suffer 
for any such indulgence. Not only are these passing ailments to be avoided 
for themselves and the discomfort they occasion, but they act perniciously in 
inducing repeated congestions of the liver, which in time lead to disease. 

The Kidneys and Ski?i. — The kidneys too are affected by any loading 
of the bowels, and at these times the secretion is thick, odorous, high-colored, 
and not unfrequently scanty. At other times in the elderly this secretion is 
profuse and troublesome, especially at nights, disturbing the person's rest 
and exposing him to cold from having to get out of bed to attend to these 
calls. Such arrangements should be made as to reduce the exposure to a 
minimum, and various appliances are now procurable at most surgical-instru- 
ment makers. There is also no greater trouble connected with the oncome 
of age than a highly sensitive condition of the urinary organs, so that not 
only are the calls frequent, but there is an urgencj' about them unknown to 
the young. Traveling becomes under these circumstances a source of much 
discomfort to the aged, especially in our express trains with their long runs 
betwixt station and station. This long run and the brief stay, scarcely ad- 
mitting of time to reach a closet when the halt is made, makes traveling 
very irksome to the aged; but here again the surgical-instrument maker 
may be resorted to with advantage. The varying changes in the bulk as 
well as in the appearance of the urine are often sources of anxiety to elderly 
persons, often unnecessarily so; especially after a common cold, and mostly 
when it is "breaking," the urine is scanty, with a heavy deposit of white or 
pink-red color, often occasioning some alarm. It is really not an untoward 
sign — indeed, is an acceptable circumstance, preceding and indicating the 
yielding of the cold. Retention of urine of course needs surgical'aid, and so 



MAN MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 441 

does incontinence in the male, however difficult it is at first sight to believe 
this. Incontinence here means not that the bladder will not retain its con- 
tents (the ordinary impression), but that it is permanently and persistently 
over-full, as the surgeon will soon demonstrate. 

In the aged the organs do not and cannot assist each other to the same 
extent as they do in earlier years, and so when the kidneys are unequal to their 
work the skin no longer affords the aid it once furnished. Indeed, the skin 
gradually becomes very inactive and dry, and no longer responds so readily 
to the bath and other stimuli as it once did. It is said that this inactivity of 
the skin is the origin of the foul and disagreeable odor found in the breath 
of many middle-aged and elderly people. Attention to the skin is a desir- 
able matter, both from a hygienic and a social point of view. This inactiv- 
ity of the skin demands further that the bowels should not be neglected. 
(While thus insisting upon attention to the bowels, it must not be supposed 
that the writer is an advocate of habitual purgation.) Any load will make 
the breath all the more offensive. 

The Respiration and Circulation. — At the time that the above-named 
changes are going on in the abdominal viscera, certain ones are inaugurated 
in the chest and the organs contained therein. The lungs are less elastic 
than they once were; they play less readily and are more easily torn by 
respiratory efforts. The air-tubes become liable to attacks of inflammation — 
bronchitis — an ailment which infests both extremes of life, and is a fatal mal- 
ady to children, especially babies, and to elderly people; more especially if 
the strength be already failing. Not only do acute attacks of bronchitis 
often supervene, but a chronic condition of inflammation is not uncommon. 
This leads to shortness of breath, cough, and expectoration, and not uncom- 
monly to serious organic changes. Great and rapid changes of tempera- 
ture should always be avoided by the old, as very liable to set up inflamma- 
tory mischief. 

The respiration of the elderly is more laoored, and more a visible effort 
than it is in earlier days, and so the general movements should be slower 
and quieter. This change of locomotion is often irksome though impera- 
tive, and is the more necessary because the heart in old persons is not equal 
to sudden demands upon it. It is often altered both in size and in its tex- 
tural integrity, and is not able to cope with urgent demands upon it. What 
would only produce a fit of violent action or palpitation in the young pro- 
duces fatal disturbance in the action of the heart in the old. This is very 
commonly seen in the results of chasing an omnibus. In the young, a little 
violent action of the heart is felt, which soon goes off without any unpleas- 
ant consequences; in the elderly a dangerous attack of cardiac asthma may 
be so induced, and not uncommonly sudden death is the penalty paid for 



44*2 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

such exertion. All sudden action on the part of old persons is very un- 
desirable, and tests too severely the internal organs, no longer in their 
former integrity. 

Elderly persons are much more liable than are the young to sudden 
death, either from failure of the heart's action, or from rupture of a blood- 
vessel in the brain (apoplexy) or elsewhere; for the blood-vessels become 
less elastic and even brittle in old age, and the heart grows larger in order 
to carry on the circulation in these rigid vessels. Consequently rupture of 
a diseased blood-vessel is no uncommon thing. All effort, all sudden exer- 
tion, all straining are to be avoided as age comes on, as being dangerous or 
harmful in their effects upon the internal organs; not only that, but hernia, 
or rupture of the abdominal wall, is now easily induced. This latter is a 
common accident to elderly persons, especially those who must labor for a 
living, and is a source of danger as well as discomfort. Herniae should al- 
ways be attended to, and trussed up by a proper and well-fitting truss, under 
which circumstances the danger to life is small. But trusses must fit well 
and closely to be of use, and a broken, or mended, or worn-out truss is of 
no real use, and only lulls its owner into a false sense of security. 

The Nervous System. — It is impossible to comprehend properly the 
changes undergone in age, and the thousand alterations which then either 
manifest themselves or become necessitated, without a full consideration of 
the condition of the nervous system in declining life. The-e changes are not 
in the organic nervous system which rules digestion and the involuntary ac- 
tions; although this suffers from the decaying action going on in the cerebro- 
spinal system, and is gradually enfeebled by the small quantity of nerve- 
force sent into it from the other, or force-generating system, so that the ac- 
tion of the organs under its control is rendered sluggish. The actions of or- 
ganic life still go on comparativelv unimpaired. It is in the brain and its 
allies that the marked changes manifest themselves. These actual anatom- 
ical changes go on hand in hand with the loss of intellectual power, with 
changes in temper, and even in disposition. Such changes are gradual; 
they commence insidiously and grow almost imperceptibly. They are dis- 
tinctly visible to the close observer long before the condition called dotage 
is recognizable by the ordinary eye. There is a condition of impaired brain- 
power, of loss of intellectual grasp, of diminished power of observation and 
of reasoning; a time when the mental processes are no longer so efficient, 
nor the balancing or summing-up powers so trustworthy as they have been, 
long ere obvious unfitness for the duties of life is reached. Consequently 
it often happens that some are permitted to exercise their wonted authority 
and to hold their accustomed influence and weight when they no longer 
really merit it, nor should have it accorded to them; not that it is any de- 



MAN MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 443 

merit of theirs, but merely that their nervous system is decaying, and their 
intellectual power is waning. Thus elderly people become irritable, queru- 
lous or suspicious, vacillating or capricious, or willful and unrestrainable. 
They no longer tolerate argument, but resent any attempt at being reasoned 
with, as if it were intended to deliberately insult them. It is not difficult 
to understand how this is. They have been for years accustomed to think 
for themselves; they have learnt by experience to trust themselves, and it is 
only after accumulated evidence that they can admit to themselves that their 
mental power? are no longer what they were. The habits and practices of 
their past life are retained tenaciously, as if the giving up of any meant the 
admission of all the infirmities of age. Much injury is often done by such 
unwillingness to give up old habits, and frequently what was once a pleas- 
ant task is persisted in till it becomes a tedious toil, a laborious and exhaust- 
ing duty. Commonly in business the duties of a chief or head of the firm 
are so merely routine, so confined to simply overlooking and assenting to 
what is done by others, that a semblance of active mental work is main- 
tained long after all actual power to fulfill such function has fled. This rou- 
tine duty, almost become an instinctive habit, does not test the declining 
powers, nor indicate their impairment; while it gives a delusive impression 
of unaffected integrity, and induces many to regard the brain as still in vigor 
and soundness when many instances to the contrary have actually come to 
light. More especially is such mental change the case when there is latent 
disease of the heart or kidneys, and the extent to which diseases of these two 
organs affect the nervous system and the mental processes is far beyond 
what could be conjectured by any mind unfamiliar with the observation of 
such action. When there is disease ot the heart, the brain is but feebly sup- 
plied with blood and its action is unsustained or imperfect. When there is 
chronic Bright's disease or latent gout, there is active irritability and a con- 
dition of persistent ill-temper, a condition of unreasonableness, with a teas- 
ing consciousness that they are unreasonable, which is most trying to the 
sufferers. 

Frequently elderly or aged persons are allowed to pursue courses 
which are inimical to health because their children do not actively oppose 
them; having never sat in judgment upon the actions of their parents, they 
feel a strong unwillingness to do so; and yet it is their duty to take action 
in the interest of- their parent whose reasoning i^owers are no longer in their 
integrity. We are all familiar with instances of old persons persisting in 
doing things obviously hurtful to them or to others, such as adhering to a 
peculiar diet, some form of exercise, or maintaining a peculiar attitude to- 
ward one member of the family, or some similar action. Yet it is not the 
rule to regard this as evidence of loss of brain power, though a remark may 



444 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

be made as to " how peculiar old people become." It is better, however, for 
all parties to recognize distinctly the fact that there is a long period of de- 
caying mental power ere complete dotage is reached, and that the difference 
is not in kind but merely in degree. This cannot be too strongly insisted 
upon in order that a correct comprehension may exist as to the condition of 
elderly persons; without which those near and around them would scarcely 
feel justified in offering a quiet but persisting opposition to their caprices, 
and in gently disregarding their whims. They are no longer capable of 
thinking correctly and reasoning soundly for themselves; and the same con- 
trol must be exercised over them and their actions as is exercised over the 
child before its mental powers have reached their full development. 

Sleep. — Elderly people do not usually sleep so much or such long 
hours as do their juniors, but when very advanced life is reached much time 
is spent in sleep. In this respect the extremely aged again show the ap- 
proach made by age toward the practice and habits of early childhood. But 
ere this condition of sleepy extreme age is reached, a period is passed 
through when the hours of sleep are very much diminished. If this dimi- 
nution be within reasonable limits, the powers are not much impaired; it 
still being obvious that the brain would be all the better for longer hours of 
rest. The explanation of this sleeplessness lies commonly in the condition 
of the circulatory system which becomes so modified that the brain is not 
so easily relieved of its blood as before, and therefore sleep is not permis- 
sible. Consequently the habit of elderly people of taking sleep when they 
can get it, especially in the after-dinner sleep which ensues upon digestion, 
when the blood is largely attracted to the digestive organs, is well-founded 
and should not be interfered with unnecessarily. In many elderly people 
with latent gout nocturnal sleeplessness is a marked feature. They are not 
kept awake by pain, but they cannot "catch" sleep. Their thoughts are 
active but their reasoning is generally in a circle, and they come back to 
the exact point whence they started. This is exhausting to the brain, 
and when they do have a short sleep they awaken unrefreshed, and the 
tired brain is very irritable; all through the day they are easily " put out," 
and that, too, to an extent far out of all proportion to the exciting cause. 
They are conscious often of there being an element of unreasonableness in 
their case which is very exasperating. This is the condition of elderly per- 
sons who are a terror to their relations and a plague to their domestics. 
The expression in common use is, "there is no living with them, and no 
pleasing them." Nor is it difficult to understand that these wearied, unrested 
brains should be very irritable. Many, feeling their shortcomings, try the 
consolations of religion, and beg to have patience given them, and suffer 
much at finding no relief therefrom. In reality it is a physical condition of 



MAN — MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 445 

the brain, not an infirmity of the mind or an unregenerateness of the spirit, 
and as such finds its true remedy in medical treatment. This condition is 
always aggravated by the consumption of animal food, and hence this 
should be avoided. 

The sleeplessness of elderly people generally is troublesome to them, 
and the best hypnotic here is a dose of alcohol at bed-time. We all know- 
how intensely awake we feel when getting into a cold, chill bed, but with 
young people this soon gives way to sound refreshing sleep. Not so, how- 
ever, in the old. With them the cold contracts the blood-vessels of the 
skin, which do not readily relax again and so admit of the blood leaving the 
brain, a necessary factor of sleep; and their rest is broken and fitful when 
they do fall asleep. The chilled blood in the skin which, under these cir- 
cumstances, makes all of us gasp as it passes along the blood-current swift- 
ly into the lungs, disturbs the circulation through the lungs in elderly per- 
sons and causes those attacks of difficulty of breathing in the aged which 
are common in the small hours of the morning. Such action is aggravated 
by the cha?tge in the temperature of the air in the bed-room from that of 
the day-room. A combination of all these leads to the attacks of disease of 
the xespiratory system which accrue without any external exposure. A 
dose of alcohol the last thing when getting into bed relaxes the vessels of 
the skin after their contraction, just as they are again dilating as the bed 
grows warm, and the action of the alcohol aiding the natural action, full 
dilatation of the blood-vessels of the skin ensues, sleep follows, and the 
pulmonary attacks are also thus avoided. 

It is obvious that taking the chill off the air of the bed-room either by 
a little fire, or, where that is not practicable, by a bucketful of hot water 
being put down in the room half an hour before the time of retiring, is a 
useful adjunct. The bed may also be aired or even warmed to advantage. 
It must be borne in mind that fires in a bed-room at night, though perhaps 
absolutely required, are not in themselves desirable; they consume too much 
of the oxygen in the air which is in the room ; and at night, during sleep, 
full supplies of oxygen are desirable. If the air of the room be just warmed, 
a draught of alcohol and hot water be taken when getting into bed, and the 
exposure of undressing be not too prolonged, the sleep of the elderly and 
the old would be much sounder, especially in the colder months. 

As extreme age is reached the tendency to sleep is much increased, and 
in dotage the hours of sleep are equal to those of the waking time. There 
is little difference in the activity of the brain now, whether awake or asleep, 
and the inactive brain easily "drops off." The memory of the enterprising 
years of life is being blotted out, and the impressions first made in child- 
hood, the last to be obliterated, assume much vividness and freshness. 



446 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

After brief periods of such wakefulness they slumber off again into obliv- 
ion. One thing it is well to remember in connection with this sleepful- 
ness, and that is this: Old people resist cold almost as feebly as hfants / 
their temperature soon falls, and then they catch cold. In sleep, when 
the vessels of the skin are full of blood, the tendency to lose heat is much 
increased. Consequently, when very old people sleep much they are apt to 
catch cold, and should be well looked to when up and dressed. This is the 
more necessary as they do not know so well how to take care of themselves, 
and often let their wraps fall off. 

Disorders of Old Age. — In advanced life the system becomes subject 
to many diseases to which it is less subject during the years of earlier life. 
For example, cancer is now much more frequent; but on the other hand its 
activity is lessened by the advance of age. In the young the forms of 
cancer are those of the quickly growing and rapidly fatal varieties; in the 
aged they approach more to the condition of mere cartilage. There is also 
a marked tendency to "rheums," i. e., flows from the different mucous sur- 
faces, just as in the case of the child. Attacks of diarrhoea are easily induced 
by trifling variations or errors in diet. To these, their loss of teeth and 
consequent inability to masticate their food render them very liable. The 
resistive power of the system is much lowered, and acute disease is apt to 
run its course very quickly; the powers of the system being easily and read- 
ily exhausted. Complaints which cause old people to be bedridden often 
prolong their lives, as is seen in the case of people who break the neck of 
their thigh-bone. This fracture but rarely unites in the very old, and so its 
occurrence often confines the patients to bed, where they live years, as the 
condition itself is not dangerous to life. Bed-sores do not usually form on 
the bedridden if the attention paid is not practically inefficient, but when they 
do form they are very ominous and indicate much loss of vitality and im- 
paired vital force. The different forms of water-beds and water-cushions 
now in vogue are very useful, and should be resorted to on the least threat- 
ening, as in bed-sores prevention is indeed preferable to cure, the latter 
Ibeing rarely practicable, particularly when the patient is very old. 

CARE OF THE AGED. 

Food. — Among the special points of care required by the old, the food 
is of vital importance. Directions deduced from foregoing remarks upon 
the digestive organs should be carefully heeded. Just as in infancy the ab- 
sence of teeth and the feeble digestive functions require soft and easily digest- 
ible food, so in old age, when artificial teeth can not be used, it may- 
be necessary to use an exclusively fluid diet. 



MAN MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 447 

Rest and £)uiet. — While all understand that the aged can not engage 
in the sports and activities of youth, some do not reflect that they are quite 
as much inclined to quiet and even solitude as they are indisposed to mus- 
cular activity. To be sure, one should always be ready to volunteer enter- 
tainment and recreation when it is welcome, but it should be remembered 
that the easy and speechless hours of age are often much more enjoyable 
than the attempts on the part of friends to dispel loneliness. On the other 
hand, many old people require a good deal of restraint to keep them from 
attempts to show how much muscular effort they can put forth, not reflect- 
ing that a becoming old age is more creditable than a poorly feigned youth. 

Warmth. — The absence of active exercise, the inability to digest 
much heat-producing food, the difficulties of respiration, the sluggish 
functions of the skin, and the disturbances of the heart and circulation, all 
characteristic of old age, point to the necessity for special pains to insure 
the requisite warmth of the body. As the child, before it has attained to 
its full vigor and vitality, is the subject of constant thought in this respect, 
so the old, who are losing that vigor and vitality, have pressing claims on 
our attention. The fact that they will remain uncomfortable for hours, 
either unconsciously or from a sense of pride in their supposed powers of 
endurance, makes it imperative that we attend to their wants without being 
solicited to do so. Their living-apartments should be kept warmer than 
those suitable for the prime of life. The temperature of their bed-rooms 
should be kept at from 63 ° to 68° F., and an abundance of woolen cover- 
ing be supplied. Cold most seriously affects the aged, as one may infer, 
in general, from the great number of deaths among them during a severe 
winter. In such weather, and only in less measure at other times, their 
apartments should be especially protected against sudden changes of tem- 
perature. No other time of day calls for such close watching as early 
morning. " It no doubt often happens that the lonely encounter with death 
takes place in the stillness of the hour before sunrise, from a sudden access 
of cold air which the extreme feebleness of old age could not resist." The 
almost invariable fall in the temperature at this time calls for special care 
in fire and coverings, and in the case of the very old or feeble, a visit 
should always be made at the room at this hour. 

Clothing. — The aged as well as infants are often insufficiently clad. 
A mistake is frequently made in supposing that extreme cold is a healthy 
tonic for every one. While this is not so far true in the case of vigorous 
constitutions as is generally supposed, it is especially erroneous in respect 
to the very old, the very young, and the feeble. Both infancy and old age 
need flannels continuously. If the old are perverse about this matter, as 
they often are from a mistaken pride in their professed strength, their 



448 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

friends should insist on the precaution, and also on an avoidance of all ex- 
posure to extreme or depressing cold. The clothing is to be changed often, 
so that they will not have the strong and unpleasant odors so often notice- 
able about the old. Be sure to keep the feet of the aged warm. 

" CHANGE OF LIFE." 

Having spoken of some characteristics and ailments of extreme old 
age, we deem it fitting that something be said regarding the period which 
separates the prime of life from subsequent years, since it is the introduc- 
tion to the age of which we have been treating, and is thus a time for lay- 
ing the foundation for comfort in those last years. We speak of the period 
in which one begins to pass down the slope of life and undergo the 
changes to which allusion has been made above. At this time many dis- 
eases attack the system, especially in connection with the reproductive 
organs of the female, and also to a less extent those of the male — diseases 
which are inseparable from this period, and only to a slight extent avoid- 
able. The change of life, as this period is called, rarely presses hardly on 
man, whose powers and passions usually fade out gradually and impercep- 
tibly; but in the other sex it always forms a trying period, and broken 
health is the lot of most women at this time. Consequently the greatest 
attention to the health is now incumbent, and rest, quietness, and numerous 
collaterals become requisite. The greater the care now exercised the less 
broken the health will be, but no amount of care will entirely relieve any 
woman from the trials of this time. The stronger the health on entering 
this period the better. As certain inherited tendencies manifest themselves 
at puberty, so does the past life come out now, and the trials to which the 
system has been subjected reveal themselves. In the matron with many 
children the constitutional exhaustion induced by child-bearing usually 
leads to very broken health ; in the involuntary spinster there is often such 
sexual excitement as leads to mental derangement; in the barren bride con- 
ception not unfrequently takes place. In the widow and the spinster this 
period is one of great trial; either from ill-health, often the result of uter- 
ine derangement, or from a renewal of the generative instinct. At this 
period of life many respectable and pure-minded women make foolish 
marriages, or form unfortunate or even disreputable attachments. That 
there may be much excuse to themselves for what they do is comprehen- 
sible enough, but the consequences are none the less unfortunate ; and the 
miserable attachment remains an ugly fact, or the unworthy husband soon 
ceases to be an attraction; in either case the future happiness is utterly de- 
stroyed. Women thus liable to err should not only themselves strive to 



MAN MATURITY AND OLD AGE. 449 

pass through this trial with as little disturbance as possible, but it behooves 
their friends also to be upon their guard, and by solicitous care, without 
unnecessary interference, and great kindness and considerateness, to obviate 
any chance of the perturbed spirit taking some rash step, and throwing 
aside the future and the past in obedience to some imperative dictate of the 
present. Would that it were possible to think otherwise; but in this period 
lies one of the greatest trials to which women are subject. The records of 
the divorce court, the annals of asylums, the dates on the tombstones in the 
churchyards, all tell us of the severe strain put upon the system of the 
woman during this change of life. The requisite treatment for this period 
is set forth in a previous chapter. 

Having passed this critical period and been relieved from the liability to 
disease and ill-health which the reproductive capacity engenders, woman en- 
ters into a period of comparative freedom from illness, and consequently from 
death. In advanced life, indeed, the proportion of women to men is most 
marked, and very old women are comparatively frequently found. Prob- 
ably their habits have much to do with their comparatively high standard 
of health in advanced life; and of these their abstinence probably stands 
first. It may be an assured fact that the taste for a little gin and water is 
wonderfully prevalent among elderly women, and within bounds it is a 
wholesome and not a pernicious practice, especially when taken at bedtime; 
yet unquestionably aged women do not indulge in the pleasures of the 
tumbler and the table to anything like the same extent to which men of 
similar age do, among whom such indulgence is very prevalent; and to this 
must be attributed much of the superior longevity of women. 

It must be acknowledged unreservedly that, though the degenerative 
changes described above are unavoidable and are normal to age, as ripe- 
ness merging into rottenness is to the apple, still an impetus can be given 
to these changes by the habits and practices of the individual. It is well 
known that in the drunkard the degenerative changes go on quickly, and 
so lead to an earlier death than is the case with a temperate man, their orig- 
inal constitutions being equal; so in one given to free living the changes 
will go on more swiftly than where moderation in food as well as drink is 
practiced. Outraged nature's laws know nothing of the plea of extenuat- 
ing circumstances. We repeat, if a certain course detrimental to health be 
pursued, its effects cannot be obviated; a life of severe self-denial and rigid 
care may alone permit of a continuation of the existence imperiled by the 
follies of youth. Even when life is approaching its close, health and life 
are not removed altogether from the action of the habits of the individual 
himself. A determined persistence in the habits and practices of early life, 
now utterly unsuited to the aging frame, will surely imperil the chances of 
29 



-450 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

a prolonged existence, no matter how proper at one time the exercises 
were. Long and severe hours of toil are not unhealthful to man in his 
prime, but they are certainly unsuited to the sunset of life. In age as in 
youth one can exercise an unmistakable influence over his own health and 
comfort. 

So, too, with the other sex; a thousand little acts of indiscretion, of 
thoughtless folly, tell in time with their accumulated weight upon the 
health. The obvious effect may be far away off, hidden in the shrouded 
future, but it is nevertheless there, and in time will become visible enough. 
The consequence, or penalty, will be in strict proportion to the offence; but 
much will depend upon what goes before and comes after. An isolated 
piece of indiscretion may produce a severe cold, but a system not overtaxed 
soon rebounds from the stroke, and the after-effects may be entirely re- 
covered from. 

It is no part of wisdom but a real exhibition of vanity for one to 
" kick against the pricks," determined to show that he is not waning in 
his powers. Let him heed the warning of years, fortify his body against 
inevitable weakness and disease by attending to its required care, and thus 
be rewarded by that " crown of glory " which is conferred by a " green old 
age," cheerful and patient, a blessing to its possessor and his friends. 



M±tr 





CHAPTER XV. 
HOME NURSING. 

IMPORTANCE OF THE SUBJECT. 

;HILE no remedy is applicable to all disorders, nor to all cases of 
the same one, proper nursing is invariabty helpful, often abso- 
lutely essential. Poor nursing can counteract the virtues of the 
> ^s^n most wisely chosen medicines and frequently baffles the highest 
medical skill. In this essential part of treatment there is a lamentable lack 
in the exercise of common sense, and too often an exhibition of positive 
stupidity. The fondest affection is no guarantee that one will or can suit- 
ably nurse the sick of even his own household. In view of such a defect 
in information the present chapter has been prepared, with a confidence that 
it will be especially welcome and be a medium through which anxious 
friends may intelligently set about doing the best thing for their patients. 
These directions are designed entirely for the domestic nurse, and since the 
greater part of nursing at home falls upon the wife, mother and sister, the 
feminine pronoun is more commonly used in alluding to the nurse. 

It will be seen that the notes are applicable to cases of severe illness, 
and quite often to protracted ones. The nurse must exercise her judgment 
in adjusting them to minor ailments. In any case, she should keep ever in 
mind that the welfare of the patient depends in many cases quite as much 
upon her as upon the physician. This is too seldom heeded. 

AIR AND WARMTH. 

"The very first canon of nursing, the first and last thing upon which 
a nurse's attention must be fixed, the first essential point to the patient, with- 
out which all the rest you can do for him is as nothing, with which, I had 
almost said, you may leave all the rest alone, is this: To keep the air 

HE BREATHES AS PURE AS THE EXTERNAL AIR, WITHOUT CHILLING HIM." 

{Nightingale). It is not always possible to observe this rule to perfection, 
but it is our business to act upon it as precisely as the circumstances will 
permit. The fear that the patient will take a cold very often leads the nurse 

451 



452 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



to exclude all air coming directly from the outside; but let it be known that a 
condition often exists which is called a cold when it is really a clogging of 
the skin and lungs with the foul exhalations of a closely-shut room — a re- 
mark which applies in only less measure to the well. Proper clothing and 
bed-covering should be the precautionary means used against colds, while 
fresh air is let in through an open window or ventilator and circulates slowly 
in all parts of the room, around and under the bed. 

Two cautions are needed in securing- J~resk air* First, it is sheer folly 
to admit air into a sick-room from another apartment, unless the latter has 
been thoroughly aired, for that is replacing impure air with impure. Second, 
the outdoor air may be polluted by a neighboring cesspool, privy vault, 
stagnant water, stables, decaying matter of any kind, kitchen slops, and the 
like. Nor is it enough that the nurse is not sensible of the contamination, 
for an enfeebled constitution is exquisitely susceptible to such influences. It 
Is imperative that one guard against all taints, so far as possible. Equal 
cautions will also be taken against the admission of dust, smoke of all kinds, 
and the fumes and steam from the kitchen. Nor should towels, bedding, 
and the like be dried or aired in the room unless the vapors and effluvia 
escaping therefrom can be driven out at once. 

There is a remarkable dread of night-air; perhaps because patients 
more often take cold in the night, particularly toward morning when the 
nurse has neglected to supply the extra covers required by the fall in the 
temperature, or has, from sleepiness, failed to keep up the temperature of 
the body when it declines during sleep. Good air is needed at night as well 
as in the day, and that which one gets at night is often, particularly in large 
cities, better than that of the daytime. There can be no doubt that patients 
in small-pox and other infectious diseases are made worse, often fatally so, 
and that others of the household are stricken, from the practice of shutting 
the sufferer in a warm, closed room with heavy wraps. All such condi- 
tions insure an accumulation of the disease-germs which it is well-nigh im- 
possible to counteract. Indeed, unwholesome apartments are often the sole 
cause of these disorders, as well as of scarlet fever and diphtheria. Give all 
such patients an abundance of fresh air. 

Fresh air does not mean cold air. Observe this distinction and you may 
avoid many of the colds which are incident to improper ventilation. Keep 
the room at an even and suitable temperature, prevent cold air from falling 
directly upon the patient from a window before it has taken on the tem- 
perature of the room, and little fear need be felt. It is always best to have 
an open grate in the room, both as a ventilator and as a means of securing 
due warmth. No other warming apparatus equal to it has been found, and 
it is best, even in hot weather, to keep a slow fire in it. 



MAN — HOME NURSING. 453 

In all cases regulate the temperature by a thermometer and do not 
depend upon the feelings of a well person. As a general temperature suit- 
able to sick rooms, 6o° F. may be given; in fevers and inflammations, say 
55 ; in nervous debility, dyspeptic disorders and those, speaking loosely, in 
which there is prostration, it is sometimes best to go higher than 6o°. In- 
deed, if the patient feels continuously chilly, the temperature is to be grad- 
ually raised. [A temperature of 6o° is not high enough for an American 
invalid, unless a high fever is present; 70° is safer and more agreeable. — 
Hale.] 

If the nurse allows an invalid to come from a warm bed without suffi- 
cient covering, untoward results will almost surely ensue. Again, in all 
cases of a reduced state of the system, the legs should be frequently ex- 
amined and coldness in them or other parts of the body be corrected by 
rubbing, by hot bottles, bricks, and the like — such attention being partic- 
ularly needed in the morning. 

But it is not enough that fresh air be admitted and chills be avoided; 
the air must be kept pure. The smell of food and medicines is to be ex- 
cluded with care. The smoke of oil from a lamp or that from a tallow 
candle is particularly disagreeable. Sometimes, in shame be it said, the 
vessel containing the urine or discharges from the bowels is placed under 
the bed or in a closet until it is needed again, and the practice may be treated 
to a little disgusting refinement by putting a lid on the vessel. Such cover- 
ing is needed only while the vessel is taken immediately from the room, 
emptied and cleansed. Nor should the contents ever be turned into a slop- 
pail for removal. Like care is to be observed when a patient vomits. 

Disinfectants. — Some advise that no disinfectants be used about a sick- 
room, save in some infectious diseases. This is a good general rule, though 
a little vinegar may be dropped on coals to counteract odors from move- 
ments of the bowels, until ventilation can do its proper work. Carbolic 
acid, perfumed or not, chloride of lime, sulphurous acid, Burnett's and 
Condy's Fluids are all good general disinfectants if any are to be used. 
Those more especially suited to particular diseases are mentioned under 
their respective articles. Read below the " Precautions against Infection." 

LIGHT. 

A dark room is generally almost as bad as a close one. The nurse 
often admits light for the laudable purpose of reviving the patient's spirits, 
though few know that its effect is quite as marked upon the body as upon 
the mind. Besides, its presence as surely purifies the air as its absence in- 
duces a damp and musty condition. The patient needs the direct rays of 



45-4 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the sun and needs them all day, certainly those of the morning and mid-day. 
Both for cheerfulness and for essential influences on the body he should be 
so placed that the light may fall on him, and that he may look out of doors. 
In some acute cases, and whenever the eyes are affected, a strong light is 
not to be admitted. But even then it is best to merely soften it by green 
shades, still allowing it to come through a thin one at the head of the bed. 

THE BED. 

Provide a bed if possible that is not so wide or high as to make it 
inconvenient or laborious for the nurse to reach or lift the patient. Keep it 
in a light place and so much removed from the wall that circulation about and 
under it is complete and the nurse can easily pass around it. Avoid feather- 
beds and the old-style bedsteads with posts and curtains as you would avoid 
poison for an invalid. Do not make a pile of mattresses, but use springs 
or a wire-mattress, never with a close bottom under the mattress. Hair^ 
husks or straw are the best, in the order named, for the mattress, and the 
covering should be as light as is consistent with warmth, woolen blanker 
being much better than cotton comforters in points of warmth, weight and 
airing. In a lingering illness, however, there is danger of bed-sores and a 
woolen blanket under the patient will aggravate the tendency. Since it 
acts in some measure as a poultice, it should be kept away from the body by 
a linen sheet. 

If a bed becomes uncomfortably close while it is occupied, the nurse 
can give relief by lifting one side of the covering a few times, gently and 
slowly so as not to fan the patient, or the patient may support them on the 
knees. With a close, thicklv-laid bed it is evident that there must be a 
constant warm dampness while it is in use, and the condition will be onlv 
worse if the patient has been taken out of it a short time and returns to it 
when it has simply been aired without being well dried. ■ Few people make 
a distinction between airing and drying a bed. The exhalations from the 
lungs and skin are generally more active in the sick than in the well and 
the bed becomes proportionately more polluted. A nurse sometimes thinks 
that an invalid has taken a cold from leaving his bed, when he has actuallv 
contracted it by being placed in a bed from which he has been taken long 
enough to allow it to be aired until the dampness in it has become cold, and 
so worse than it was before. This is a point of the utmost moment, but it 
is difficult to impress it upon most people. Indeed, we can scarcely hope 
that it will be heeded by those who are so untidv, not to say filthy, as to 
spread the covers in their own bedrooms before a complete airing has been 
given in the morning, and thus shut in the dead and putrescent matters 



MAN — HOME NURSING. 455 

which the skin has thrown off during the night — to be offensively "warmed 
over" the next night and mingled with another foul supply. 

It is better to have two beds, each to be used twelve hours out of 
twenty-four, and it is desirable that they be in separate but adjoining rooms. 
When the patient leaves one, it should be aired and dried while not in use, 
and well warmed before he returns to it. This insures the cleansing of the 
mattress as well as the coverings, whereas the latter are too often the only 
subject of thought with the domestic nurse. If this arrangement is imprac- 
ticable, have at least two furnishings for the bed and change them often. 

Preparing the bed is of almost as much importance as the materials 
used. Always spread the under sheet smoothly and absolutely straight, 
and pin it to the mattress so that no folds or rucks can form to irritate the 
skin by long lying upon it. Put on every piece separately to insure perfect 
smoothness, and avoid dragging off the covers at the foot or sides. 

In changing the sheets while the bed is occupied, place the patient on 
one side of the bed, roll the under sheet up toward him, spread half of the 
clean one in its place, folding the other half up against the patient. Now 
lift him to the other side, remove the soiled sheet, spread and secure the 
clean one. In replacing the top sheet, roll or fold the clean one crosswise, 
place it at the foot, under the other coverings, quickly draw it up, and then 
slip away the soiled one. When but one sheet is to be put on, that which 
was on top is usually spread under the patient, its place being taken by the 
clean one. Reverse the order. The patient feels the lower sheet with its 
little wrinkles much more than the upper, and he must suffer more from 
the annoyance of a rumpled covering under him than the eyes of the nurse 
[and friends can be offended by the bad appearance. 

Use soft pillows unless the patient prefers another, and, generally speak- 
ing, so adjust them that they will tend to keep the pressure from the chest. 
The nurse will often be too painstaking and will insist on rearranging them 
because they appear to her to be in an uncomfortable position. Make a 
change when the patient wants it made, but remember that what seems to 
another to be a distressing adjustment or confusion may be just what the 
patient has found best suited to his wants after repeated trials, and that you 
will harrass him by insisting on making it better. [No sick person should 
ever sleep under cotton quilts. They obstruct ventilation and retain poison- 
ous effluvia. Woolen blankets should always be used. — Hale.] 

FURNITURE AND ADORNMENTS. 

Little furniture should be kept in a sick room. It is better to have no 
carpets, rugs being spread on the parts of the floor most used to deaden 



456 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the noise, Carpets emit dust and retain the impurities of the air. both those 
from previous use of the room and those directly from the sick. The same 
remark applies to curtains and all superfluous drapery and upholstery, and 
only in a less degree to wall-paper. When a choice can be made, keep an 
invalid in a room without paper, particularly that which is green. Oiled 
walls are the best, and plaster or whitewash is better than paper. 

But be sure to avoid gloom and monotony. If a patient lingers long, 
he will become distressingly tired of looking at the same spots, knots, and 
even pictures. Freojiently give relief by rearranging the furniture and 
introducing new adornments of a pleasing nature, not forgetting to bring in 
flowers when practicable. The prejudice against bouquets is unreasonable, 
excerj: when directed against lilies and others of a nauseous or depres : g 
odor. It need hardly be said that flowers should be removed before thej 
dry. decay, or become otherwise offensive. It is universally conceded that 
the state of the mind has a powerful influence on the body, and the fact de- 
serves special attention in regard to the sick. How far different colors have 
a good or bad effect we cannot say. It has been claimed that scarlet fl •: 
are stimulating, and deep blue exhausting. Close observation by the nurse 
will be of service upon this question, whether it concerns flowers or other 
particulars. 

The furniture and other appointments are to be kept clean, but " setting 
things to rights " must be without noise and bustle. The ordinary dusting 
with a brush or dry rag, bad enough at air" time, is reprehensible in the 
sick-room. Remove dust from furniture, shelves and floor with a damp rag 
or sponge. 

Special Articles. — Among the appointments should be a thermometer 
to regulate the temperature of the room, a fever thermometer, a fountain 
syringe, and quite often a urinometer and test-tube. Other appliances and 
common remedies needed in every household are enumerated elsewhere. 

PERSONAL CLEANLINESS. 

If the nurse would only consider how many disagreeable experiences 
the patient is necessarily subjected to, she would be scrupulousi cai efol not 
to add to them by uncleanliness in herself; would frequently change her 
apparel and bathe, washing her hands often during the dav, keeping her 
hair arranged, and in general maintaining a cleanly, tidy and pleasing ad- 
dress. She should be simply attired, without fussy Laces and ribbons, noisy 
silks and bustling crinoline-. 

If the patient has even one change of apparel there is no excuse for 
uncleanliness in him, aside from the inconvenience :: the nurse and friends. 



MAN HOME NURSING. 457 

It is better to wash that change every day than to allow him to wear soiled 
clothes. He should be clad simply; ruffles look well when first put on, but 
soon become rumpled and look worse than plain bands and bosoms, to say 
nothing of comfort. An abundance of clean handkerchiefs and towels will 
be provided, of course. 

In dressing the patient, care should be taken to warm the clothes; to 
gather up the sleeves so the hand can be easily slipped through them ; and 
to pull down the garments smoothly, the under one first, but not so as to 
draw at the neck. In arranging the hair, snarls will be gently taken out, 
scratching be avoided, the nurse remembering too that combs and brushes 
were not made for use on the face and neck, and that the scalp is often the 
most sensitive part of the body in sickness. 

But clean clothes are not enough. Suitable bathing or sponging is 
very important. The remarkable relief afforded by even a light use of the 
sponge makes it desirable that it be resorted to often, particularly in fevers, 
and the hands, feet and face can be treated with special safety. Except in 
mild cases, however, full baths are usually to be given under the advice of 
a physician or other person of experience. This subject is more fully treated 
in a later part of this chapter where the reader will find full directions. 

WATCHING. 

Under this head are grouped various points which come within the 
duties of the nurse, and which show that it rests upon her to attend to many 
things beside the administration of medicines and the mere physical neces- 
sities and comfort of her patient. In any case she should acquaint herself 
with the concise remarks of Chapter II upon detecting disease, and then 
appropriate such suggestions in this chapter as are applicable to the patient 
in hand. 

Entertainment. — A protracted confinement is painfully monotonous, 
and the attendant should stimulate her ingenuity to impart variety. 
What to do and how' to do it must be determined by the tastes, strength 
and temperament of the sufferer. The true nurse will make her prefer- 
ences and convenience subordinate to the wishes and even whims of her 
charge, when their gratification is not clearly harmful, and will engage in 
reading, games, and the like, always stopping short of fatigue and annoy- 
ance to the patient. She should study to anticipate the patient's weariness 
and not wait for him to ask for some recreation. She is not an accomplished 
nurse who does not observe closely enough to see the most of the patient's 
wants without his making them known. 

Three points should be noticed in reading, one of the most common 



4v> c:v?zx::vv zt hzalth. 

forms of entertainment : First, read distinctly, without shouting or laboring 
to be heard, so that the patient will be irritated neither by straining to catch 
the words nor by an undue volume or harshness of voice. Second, if the 
listener is falling asleep, keep on reading but let the voice gradually sink, 
until it can scarcely be heard, before stopping; if you stop suddenly when 
you suppose he is asleep, you will be quite as certain to arouse him thereby 
as if you were to speak :: him. Third, if you are reading to yourself in a 
sick-room, do not read choice passages aloud in "snatches;" this is much 
more exhausting and annoying than for the patient to hear it all, for you will 
thus suddenly break those trains of thought in which all patients become 
more or less absorbed, and inflict an irritating shock upon the nervous system. 
It is often more entertaining to teil to the patient in your own language what 
an author says. 

Disturbances. — •• Unnecessary noise, or noise that creates expectation in 
the mind, is that which hurts a patient/ 8 Every nurse and member of the 
household should ponder that remark. Yet how many do just the wrong 
thing. They will walk on tip-toe or stand in the middle of the room, lest moving 
cause disturbance, touch the patient, when it is necessary at all, so delicately 
as to excite without helping him, speak to him in a feeble, plaintive tone, 
and, worse than all else, "whisper to a third person in the room. When 
anything is to be done or said, let the voice, touch and s»tep be firm and 
prompt, without being rude, spasmodic or excited. Conversation within a 
patient's hearing will make him uneasy, nervous and feverish if it is not so 
distinct that he can hear it. This remark applies as well to talking in 
another room, especially if the patient has a suspicion (and what suspicions 
does a patient not have?) that the conversation is about him. It will be all 
the more trying if the doctor is in the company. Xor is it enough that re- 
marks not designed for the patient be beyond his hearing; // must be beyond 
his knowledge. He will endure a great deal of necessary noise and even 
jarring in and about the house (if it only be not sudden acd startling), for 
he takes it in a reasonable way; but any low or indistinct conversation, 
squeaking of shoes, rustling of clothing, and the like, will have untoward 
effects. It is particularly urgent that tramping and other noise in a room 
above the patient be avoided, even if he must be moved upstairs. Such 
disturbance is peculiarly noticeable and the well can not know how suscept- 
ible the sick are to even the slightest jarring — a susceptibility which de- 
mands caution about leaning or sitting on the bed or couch, or shaking it 
much. 

r:i jrou speak to a sick person, get in front of and close to him, 
where he can see and answer you easily ; but be careful not to interrupt him 
suddenly when otherwise engaged, lest you give a shock to his sensitive 



MAN HOME NURSING. 459 

nervous system. On the other hand, do not keep him in expectation that 
you are to say something to him, for such a strain is as bad as a shock. 

Any noise or sudden disturbance when an invalid is walking or standing 
will almost certainly induce serious consequences. Do not speak to him at 
such times unless he invites you. Remember too that standing is more 
trying than walking, and do not constrain him to stand still, but studiously 
avoid interrupting him when he chooses to do so. Whether walking, 
standing, sitting or rising, if he wishes to help himself, let him do it, taking 
as little notice of him as practicable. If he knows you are watching him 
and are ready to spring to his assistance, he will become injuriously excited. 
In observing these cautions the nurse must not forget the necessity of warn- 
ing her patient against any sudden movements, as in rising or walking, 
during the stages of convalescence after a debilitating or prolonged sickness, 
for such movements have a very bad effect on the heart. 

The touch of the nurse's hand very often arouses an invalid; even if it is 
perfectly comfortable to her, it may seem cold to the quiet and sensitive 
sleeper. She must be sure that her hands are warm. 

Again, a light in the room may be objectionable. If so, remove it entirely 
if possible; otherwise shade it completely. Avoid two things: First, the 
placing of a light, whether shaded or not, so that reflections from a mirror 
or other surface can fall on the bed; second, the shading of a light by merely 
putting it in a pail. The latter makes a glaring spot on the ceiling in pain- 
ful contrast to other parts of the room, and strikes where it will be more 
annoying than a full light. 

Notes. — The doctor gets little real information from the average 
watcher. If the patient has been somewhat restless and awake several 
times, the nurse perhaps says he was awake all night, when he has really 
been asleep the most of the time. Or he may have lain awake but quiet all 
night, and yet be said to have rested well. He may have had fever for a 
short time, and the doctor be told that fever has continued since his 
last call. He may have taken a fair portion of a large meal set before him, 
and the nurse, speaking from what he left rather than from what he ate, say 
that he has eaten very little; or he may have dabbled in and " messed up" 
his food for some time, as if eating a good meal, and so have led the nurse to say 
that sufficient nourishment has been received. It is her duty to notice in all 
cases how much has been taken. If the pulse, respiration or moisture of the 
skin has varied, if the bowels or kidneys have acted, the doctor can learn 
little or nothing about the extent or character of such changes and functions, 
or the times and duration of their occurrence. The hours, frequency, 
amounts and character of such particulars should be known by the doctor. 
The evacuations from the bowels and bladder should be kept for his inspec- 



4(30 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tion, except in cases of infectious diseases, or at other times when he expressly 
says they need not be kept. 

Such things can obviously be learned only from the nurse and she 
should keep a record of them — as she will of course keep a record of di- 
rections left by the doctor about other matters — and should use a pencil if her 
memory is not good. She must closely study the patient, carefully noting 
any change in color, flesh, strength, or vitality, any excitement, chills, head- 
ache, or other particular. 

It has been well observed that the appearance of the face is not an 
invariable guide, nor even generally safe; for the features may seem normal 
or unchanging when very marked transitions are going on; and this shows 
how idle are many of the remarks of casual visitors who pass judgment 
upon a hasty look at the face. The whole bodv must be watched. The 
hands will be among the first to show emaciation, change of color, and de- 
ranged circulation. Again, the nurse must consider how far all of the seem- 
ing facts are to be modified in importance by the peculiarities of each patient. 
Though it is her business to follow the orders of an attending physician, she 
will see some things which he does not and should try to correct his judgment 
by giving additional facts, but must do this beyond the hearing and knowl- 
edge of the patient, and izever argue a poi?it with the doctor in his preseiice. 

Precautions against Infection. — Special care is needed in certain ma- 
lignant diseases to prevent the spread of infection to the nurse and others. 
To do this, keep all pecsons away from the patient (preferably out of the 
house) who are not absolutely needed. Insure good ventilation, with warmth 
and without draughts. Provide a second room if possible, with thorough 
ventilation, which the attendants may occupy when not necessarily with the 
patient, and in which they may keep a change of disinfected clothing for 
use when leaving the house. 

Do not stand between the patient and the fire, but between him and 
an open window when practicable. Do not unnecessarilv stay in the 
sick-room. Do not swallow saliva when with the patient. Expectorate 
and blow the nose after leaving the room. Frequently wash the hands 
in water containing carbolic acid, or in alcohol. Rinse out the mouth, 
eyes, nostr,ils and throat often with dilute Condy's Fluid, or dilute alcohol. 
Keep disinfectants in the room to counteract the effects of imperfect venti- 
lation, such as copperas, charcoal, bromo-chloralum, carbolic acid, chloride 
of lime, and fumes of vinegar, it being sometimes advisable to use two or 
more in combination. Put on disinfected clothing when you leave the house. 
Keep up your health by good food, outdoor exercise, cleanliness, rest and 
temperance. 

Simple Rules for Watchers. — Be watchful without being fussy. Be 



MAN HOME NURSING. 461 

always cheerful, but not playful when the patient wishes silence and quie- 
tude. Be obliging, granting everything asked if it is not manifestly harmful. 
Do not argue with the patient unless absolutely necessary ; this can gener- 
ally be avoided by simply deciding for him, being firm but never stern in 
doing the best thing. Be patient and satisfy the patient on a given point; 
it is only annoying to say, " O, it's nothing." Even so-called whims about 
draughts, odors, jars and the like may be based on facts which the healthy 
and less sensitive nurse does not notice. Sometimes the patient must not 
know the truth, and the nurse may be forced to tell a falsehood. Be con- 
fident but not rude in what you do. When handling the patient do not be 
too delicate in the touch; in lifting him, place the hand fully under the head, 
or the hand and arm under the shoulder; slip both hands under him, having 
him grasp you around the neck if need be, and he is able; in short, while 
being gentle, evince such strength and confidence that he will put perfect 
reliance upon your ability. Do not allow bottles, glasses, dishes and basins to 
accumulate in the room. Keep food out of the room beyond the sight and 
smell of the patient when not feeding him. Keep water and medicines that 
must be often used on a table close to the bed, bottles being corked and cups 
covered. Do not give water that has been standing any time in an open 
glass or pitcher. 

If you are nursing a patient who is under a physician's care, observe his 
directions implicitly, administering medicines promptly as to times, doses 
and preparations, and following your own judgment in any changes only 
when you are unmistakably right. Common honor demands this. 

VISITS. 

It is difficult to decide whether visits, as a whole, are to be considered 
entertainments or annoyances, but it is certain that the nurse must often use 
tact and firmness to keep them from being the latter. In general, she must 
see that visitors observe such of the rules laid down for herself as apply to 
them and should be prompt and courteous in telling them when they are doing 
anything prejudicial to her charge. When talking to the sick, they must 
get before him, sit down, not on the bed, not manifest haste, not introduce 
exciting themes, not bluster or gesticulate, not "chatter" to entertain, not 
sit dumb with the mistaken idea of keeping the patient from taxing himself 
by conversation — remembering that a visit has a social aim, and if the patient 
is too feeble to bear talking he needs no visitors at all. Let the conver- 
sation be cheerful, distinct, foreign to the sick-room in the main, and not so 
long as to cause fatigue; let the visitor lead in it, not troubling the patient 
to do so, and leave when he comes to a point at which he must labor to find 



462 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

something to say. Of course he will tell all the good news, and should con- 
sider that many things which are of little interest to himself in the bustle of 
business may be very entertaining in the monotony of a sick-room. 

To "drop in a few minutes" and cheer (!) the patient by telling him 
how much better he is — when, if he is not exceedingly simple-minded, he 
knows that such a casual knowledge is worthless — is scarcely less than dis- 
gusting. On the other hand, an officious friend will call to tell the family 
that a certain doctor is successful in such cases, when he simply knows 
nothing about the ailment with which the patient is afflicted. The family 
are quite as solicitous as friends can be and will be the first to know when 
the attending physician is unequal to the demands, and there will almost 
always be time enough to give them advice when they ask for it. The 
visitor is not the one to give counsel about a doctor, a journey, a pill, or any- 
thing else. He should talk to the patient about his condition as little as 
possible. Does he suppose the sufferer wants others to come in and go over 
what he has thought a thousand times? Is not he presumably tired of 
himself and desirous of hearing about almost any other thing within his 
friend's knowledge? 

Visitors should not be admitted when the patient is eating or otherwise 
engaged; nor should their presence in the house be known at such times. 
When one is so ill that friends are not admitted, he should as a rule not 
know that particular ones have called, for the refusal to allow them to come 
in makes him more anxious about his condition. 

REMEDIES. 

In the chapter devoted to Materia Medica are some essential observa- 
tions and cautions on the preparations suitable for given remedies. These 
should be made familiar to all who shall use this book, and especially to her 
who shall nurse the sick. It is surprising to see how reckless are many 
otherwise prudent people in giving medicines. They administer any and 
every thing that passes under a given name, though it may be wholly differ- 
ent from what has been recommended by the physician or author. The 
names of some medicines prescribed in domestic books are identical with those 
popularly applied to others of a very different nature. For this reason it is 
necessary in this work to generally apply to medicines their technical names, 
and direct the reader to use them in such forms, doses and strength as are 
specified in the chapter to which allusion has just been made. In that place 
will be gained the needed instruction on the medicines. Some drinks and 
other expedients which are often prescribed in connection with specific 
remedies are described below under "Feeding the Sick." The nurse w T ill 



MAN HOME NURSING. 463 

be called upon to make poultices, liniments, washes, and the like. Of these, 
such as call for the use of drugs are mentioned in the Materia Medica where 
they properly belong, since they are usually made on special formulas to be 
filled by a druggist. Poultices, however, are almost always made from 
materials in the house and are therefore mentioned in this chapter. 

The doctor alone knows how destitute are most households of remedies 
and appliances called for almost daily. If one in the family has headache, 
sore throat, indigestion, or other common ailment, nothing can be found for 
relief. Entirely too many people thus put themselves at the mercy of fre- 
quent and painful affections which they are perfectly competent to treat 
themselves, but which, in the absence of camphor, a simple gargle, an 
emetic, or other common remedy, goes on until a physician's call is necessary, 
with the expense incident thereto. In the chapter to which reference has 
been made above is given a list of medicines and appliances which the 
non-professional can use with profit and absolute safety. By the use of such 
the physician's aid will often be rendered unnecessary and the saving of three 
of his visits by a prompt treatment of simple affections will cover the entire 
cost. Besides, the vials or boxes can be filled anew for the expense incurred 
by purchasing two or three prescriptions at a drug-store. 

POULTICES. 

These are applied to inflamed parts to mitigate pain, reduce inflamma- 
tion, or hasten suppuration. They should generally be so applied as* to 
reach beyond the parts involved ; but when used on suppurating sores, they 
should be little larger than the opening in the skin after the discharge 
begins. That they may retain their heat and moisture the requisite time, 
cover them with oil-silk or folds of cotton; in this way they can be made 
thinner and less cumbersome. If too long continued, they will irritate the 
parts, and a too free use of them on boils ma}» excite new ones. Since heat 
and moisture are the ends to be attained by poultices, the nurse may select 
from the following list as her judgment or convenience shall dictate, unless 
a particular kind has been prescribed. They may be applied directly to the 
skin or a layer of thin cloth may be put under them. To induce suppura- 
tion, they should be hot\ to allay irritation, only comfortably warm. Com- 
presses and fomentations answer much the same purpose as poultices, and are 
more cleanly and agreeable. 

Flaxseed, or Linseed. — To avoid lumps, make as follows: Into a 
heated bowl pour boiling water; sprinkle in the linseed meal, stirring all 
the time until a thin dough is formed. Quickly spread upon a cloth or put 
into a bag and apply hot or warm as required. This retains moisture and 



Ui4 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

heat well, but may be too irritating - for a sensitive skin. It will be more 
agreeable if its surface is spread with vaseline before it is applied. 

Bread and Water. — Pour boiling water on slices of bread from which 
all crusts have been removed ; put by the fire a few minutes, and then pour 
ofFthe water: repeat this, then press out the bread, loosen it up, and apply 
as directed for linseed. If there be haste, simply dip into hot water a slice 
of bread, after removing the crusts, and apply at once. 

Bread and 3/ilk. — Put fine crumbs of stale bread in a heated dish ; pour 
on boiling milk, meanwhile stirring well until the mixture is as thick as 
mush; be sure that it is smooth and free from lumps; apply as above. 

Bran. — Place on the stove a pan containing bran, say a pint; pour on 
enough hot water to make it simply moist; throw into a heated bag enough 
to half fill it, close the mouth, and applv as hot as can be borne. Renew 
often. This kind soon sours, but it is convenient when large poultices must 
be used for a good while. 

Indian Jfeal. — Spread upon a cloth common Indian-meal mush and 
applv as above directed. 

Turnip or Carrot. — Boil the vegetable until soft, mash it with a fork 
sc as to make it loose, and apply as directed for linseed. 

Charcoal. — Sprinkle on the surface of a bread poultice a thin layer of 
finelv powdered charcoal. It is good for foul sores with offensive smell. 

Slippery Elm. — Pour boiling water on powdered slippery elm bark, 
stir until the consistence of mush is secured; applv as directed for linseed. 

Starch. — Make a smooth, fairly thick paste of starch, free from lumps, 
spread on a cloth, and apply to the parts as noted for linseed. 

Bigg and Alum. — Mix well the whites of two eggs and a teaspoonful 
of pulverized alum, spread, and apply as directed for starch. 

Mustard. — Stir ground mustard in boiling water until a thin paste is 
formed, spread it on a thick muslin cloth of brown paper, and apply ; re- 
move as soon as active smarting begins, not allowing it to produce a blister, 
ten or fifteen minutes usually being a proper time for its use. 

Teast. — Mix well a pound of flour and a pint of yeast, and use for foul 
and gangrenous sores, applying as other kinds of poultices. 

COMPRESSES. 

Bv these are meant cloths folded several times, dipped into water, 
lightlv wrung out, and applied to affected parts for the purpose of either 
allaying inflammation, retaining heat, or inducing perspiration. They are 
recommended for various purposes and are either cold or warm according 
to the case in hand. 



MAN — HOME NURSING. 405 

Cold Cofnpress. — To reduce inflammation, use the cold compress and 
change it every five minutes or oftener. Sometimes it is advised to fold 
snow or pounded ice in a cloth, or put it into a rubber bag, and use in place 
of the cloth ; this need not be changed so often but must be used with more 
caution, and only on competent medical advice. There is no part to which 
cold bandages are more often applied than on the trunk of the body, over 
the stomach and bowels, to assist digestion, to impart tone to the nerves 
and blood-vessels, and to allay pain in inflammation of the bowels, stomach, 
bladder and other organs. Such cold applications on these parts are not 
to be used by females during the menstrual period. This form of compress 
is used on the chest for congestion quite often, and on the throat for inflam- 
matory affections; when applied to the latter, put over it a dry bandage so 
adjusted as to exclude the air as much as possible, change often, and when 
stopping their use, wash the throat with cold water and quickly dry to pre- 
vent colds. Indeed, care is always to be taken that a cold be not contracted 
by the use of a compress. If the surface continues cold after a compress 
has been used and proper drying has been applied, the cold application is 
not to be repeated, but the warm one is often recommended. 

Warm Compress. — This is the same as the cold except that the water 
is to be tepid and covered with a dry cloth, preferably flannel, or with oil- 
silk, to exclude the air. As noted above, it is often substituted for the cold 
compress ; it is always to be used by women during the menstrual flow if 
any compress at all is necessary. 

In general, if applied too continuously, compresses will debilitate the 
skin and induce eruptions and even boils, an issue which is always to be 
guarded against. It is better to cover them with oil-silk, as the air is to be 
carefully shut out. They are generally best applied at night, the parts being 
sponged and thoroughly dried as soon as they are removed. 

FOMENTATIONS. 

A fomentation, like a compress, must answer substantially the purpose 
of a poultice, and by some is always used instead of the latter because of its 
more cleanly and agreeable nature. To make one, turn a piece of flannel 
into from three to eight folds; pour boiling water on it; fold it in a dry, hot 
towel and wring it out thus as dry as you can ; apply to the affected part as 
hot as it can be borne ; change as often as once in five minutes, two com- 
presses being at hand so that one may be on all the time. Keep it covered 
with thick flannels to retain the heat. The second and following applica- 
tions can be gradually raised in temperature. The attendant will often find 
them so hot that the hand can not hold them, and it will be necessary to use 
30 



466 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

sticks in wringing them out. If at any time the patient can not endure the 
direct heat, put a cloth on the affected part before applying the fomentation. 
Such an application is excellent for allaying pain in very many ailments. 
It is sometimes preferable to make hot and cold applications alternately. 
When the use of a fomentation is discontinued, the part should usually be 
covered with a cool or tepid compress for a few minutes; but in rheumatism, 
neuralgia, and other affections in which pain is liable to follow such discon- 
tinuance, a thick layer of cotton batting or a covering of warm flannels 
should be used as a protection against the air. 

A very easy and effective method of applying moist heat is wrapping a 
moderately hot flat-iron or brick in a damp towel and holding it against the 
painful part. This is a luxury to one suffering from an ulcerated tooth or 
neuralgia of the face and head. If mere heat is required without moisture, 
as is often the case when the body or any other part of it is cold, apply hot, 
dry flannels in several folds, and change often; or use bags filled with hot 
bran, meal, salt or sand ; or hot bottles, bricks, soap-stones, and the like ; or 
better than all else, a rubber bag filled with hot water. 

MASSAGE. 

This is alluded to in several places in the foregoing pages, and is in- 
valuable in many cases. It is a form of muscular exercise which consists in 
pinching the skin, moving the joints in any and all directions of which they 
are capable, tapping, pounding- or slapping the surface, and kneading and 
squeezing the muscles. It may be applied to the whole body or only to a 
part, and may be continued from a few minutes to an hour or more, accord- 
ing to the strength of the patient and nurse. When it is used, the case is 
nearly always under the care of a physician, who can teach the nurse 
directly how to apply it. After a few trials it is very agreeable. 

INJECTIONS. 

Unless otherwise directed, use tepid or warm water for injections, 
whether in health or sickness. To relieve constipation, introduce a pint, 
quart, or even more, and have the patient lie down for from a few minutes 
to an hour before he empties the bowels. Introduce the water slowly and 
carefully, a part of it at a time, with sufficient intervals for it to make its 
way up into the bowel. Always oil the tube before inserting it. Use a 
fountain syringe if you can get it. If one with a bulb is in use, be sure to 
submerge the bulb entirely, then expel the air from it and let it fill with 
water, thus preventing the entrance of air into the bowel. No directions 



MAN HOME NURSING. 4(37 

are here needed for the injection of liquid food, for it is never resorted to 
except in cases which require a competent physician, and he will give the 
required instruction upon the kinds and their application. 

GARGLES. 

The best of gargles are often worthless as applied by the non-profes- 
sional. To reach the tonsils and pharynx, they must flow down as for as 
possible without being swallowed, the head being thrown well back for 
this purpose. When a deposit is to be removed from the throat, dip into 
the gargle a piece of soft sponge or cloth free from lint (firmly fastened to 
a stick or pencil to avoid swallowing it), and then swab the parts briskly. 
Such a swab will be necessary when the throat of a small child is to be 
gargled. The reader will find the formulae for gargles, and the affections 
ito which they are respectively suited, in the Materia Medica. 

EMETICS. 

It is not unfrequently necessary to induce vomiting in cases of poison- 
ing, extreme and persistent nausea, and the like. The most common and 
efficacious emetics are mentioned under " Poisons," in Chapter XI. 

BATHS AND PACKS. 

Every one knows that water fills an important place in nearly all 
treatment of disease, though few realize that it is one of the most powerful 
of agents, and may effect good or evil results in about equal measure, ac- 
cording to the way in which it is applied. An unwise use in health often 
reduces a strong constitution, and in sickness may kill a patient. No rule 
can be here given as to the times when a bath or pack may be used on a 
patient, other than that the nurse, when a physician is in attendance, is to 
follow his directions, with the possible exception of a light sponging with 
the cautions mentioned below. If the patient is weak, the greatest pains is 
necessary. 

Observe the following points: Use a thermometer when you are to 
have the water at a certain temperature, and do not trust to your hand to 
determine when it is warm enough. Whether applying a pack or full bath, 
let the patient feel the blanket or water before going into it. When bath- 
ing, do not allow the ends of a cold towel to flap on the patient's body ; and 
when applying a pack, do not be so "cruelly kind" as to put the cold, wet 
blanket slowly on small parts of the body at a time. Hang the towels by 



468 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

a fire so that they will be warm, not too hot or scorched, when they are to 
be used; if they become too warm, shake them out an instant before using; 
in the absence of a fire, a heated stone, iron or other warmer can be used, 
the towels being wrapped around it before being used. Be gentle with 
weak, delicate and nervous patients, but firm and expeditious, without flurry 
or bluster. Do not irritate sores or tender spots, and be sure that your nails 
do not scratch the skin. In washing the hands or feet, place the vessel so 
that the water will surely fall back into it instead of running up the limbs. 
If the body is to be washed or sponged without the patient rising, spread a 
warm thick cloth down to protect the bed, and put a limb or other part 
under the cover as soon as it has been washed and thoroughly dried. A 
little vinegar, rose water, or cologne added to the bath will make it more 
refreshing, and other additions are recommended for special complaints 
under their respective articles. If the feet are hot, the desired relief will 
often be secured, without bathing, by rubbing cologne over them and be- 
tween the toes. The sea-salt kept by druggists is a superior addition to 
bathing-water, and it is recommended at various places in this work. 

If your patient has a mania for being bathed, put a reasonable restraint 
upon him, but without fretting him. Remember that one of the most com- 
mon errors is continuing a bath too long. Before beginning, be sure that 
you have all the water, sponges, towels, and other appliances that will be 
needed; otherwise you may be compelled to leave the patient partiallv ex- 
posed, or cause weariness by prolonged disturbance. Be sure that you 
thoroughly dry all parts bathed or sponged, and induce circulation by as 
much rubbing as is requisite, or as the strength of the patient will warrant. 

The Full Bath. — This is sometimes used after a sweating process; 
at other times without any previous treatment. The efFects are stimulating 
and strengthening if there be sufficient vital force to bear it; otherwise it 
may be depressing and not be followed by proper reaction. It requires cau- 
tion and should never be taken if there is reason to doubt the ability of the 
patient to withstand the possible depressing efFects. First wet the patient's 
head and chest quickly ; then have him enter the bath at once and remain a 
half minute. Dry and rub the body and cover quickly. The water should 
have a temperature of from 6o° to yo° F. unless otherwise ordered. 

The Half Bath. — This is generally used as a tonic and stimulant 
when the full bath would be too powerful. The water mav be of the 
same temperature as that for the full bath, should be about six inches deep 
in the tub, and may be dashed over the body for three or four minutes; 
The body must be thoroughly dried, with considerable friction following, 
then if the patient is vigorous enough, active exercise in the open air is de- 
sirable, though preferably after a rest of a few moments. 



MAN HOME NURSING. 

The Hip or Sitz Bath. — This form of bath is very efficacious in 
many affections and is also one of the most convenient for general use. A 
common washing-tub maybe used, though the tin or zinc tub made expressly 
for the purpose is preferable. Fill the tub a third full of water and have 
the patient sit in it, with the feet outside of the water — better outside of the 
tub and covered — only so much of the clothing being removed from the 
body as is necessary. 

When this bath is used for its tonic and stimulating effects on the 
nerves of the bowels and organs of the pelvis, the patient should begin with 
tepid water, each day making it a little cooler for a week, after which it 
need not be warmed at all. It is generally to be continued from ten to fif- 
teen minutes; but when it is used for lessening inflammation in the head or 
chest it may be continued for a half-hour or even longer. 

If the sitz-bath is applied to relieve pain, as in colic, neuralgia, and 
other affections, it should be taken hot, the patient remaining in it fifteen or 
twenty minutes, well covered with blankets. If the bath causes a rush of 
blood to the head, a cloth wet in cold water should be kept upon the crown. 

If the sitz-bath is taken by women during pregnancy, every night just 
before retiring, it will have an excellent effect, promote sleep, relieve con- 
gestions, and be invaluable in correcting disturbances in the organs of the 
abdomen and pelvis. 

The Wet-Sheet Pack. — Lay upon a bed one or two comfortables 
and two or more woolen blankets. Take a sheet (preferably of coarse linen) 
large enough to envelope the whole body, if the entire body is to be treated, 
dip it in cold water, wring it out until no more will run from it, and spread 
it smoothly upon the blankets. Let the patient extend himself, without 
clothing, upon the sheet, and wrap it quickly and tightly about him from 
head to foot, arms and all, the face alone being free. Bring the blankets 
one at a time closely about him and thus tightly pack him. The first sen- 
sation is certainly disagreeable, but the feeling of cold passes away very 
soon and is followed by a pleasant coolness, and then by a genial warmth 
which perhaps ends in perspiration, though this sweating is not always de- 
sirable. If the patient is very weak and chilly, bottles or bags of hot 
water, heated bricks or stones, or other appliances may be put to the feet 
and perhaps under the armpits. If the head aches, put on it a towel wet 
with cold water. As a rule, the patient should remain in the pack until 
warmth is fully established and the whole skin is in a glow. The nature 
of the disease, however, must largely determine this matter, as well as the 
question whether sweating should be induced. On coming out of the pack, 
a tepid or cold bath should be given as quickly as possible. 

In diseases of a febrile nature, this pack is very useful. In acute fevers, 



470 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the wet sheets must be changed according to the degree of heat, perhaps 
every fifteen minutes, until the dry, hot skin becomes softer and inclined to 
perspiration. In this condition the patient may remain for an hour or two, 
when the blankets should be loosened until perspiration ceases of its own 
accord; the tepid bath should then be given. This mode of treatment im- 
mediately abstracts heat, lowers the pulse, relieves headache and thirst in 
most cases, and does not enfeeble the functions of the body. 

Wet-Sheet Rubbing. — Throw a wet sheet over the head and body 
of the patient after he is divested of his clothing. This will create a slight 
shock. Let him remain in it from one to five minutes according to the 
amount of heat to be drawn off. One or two attendants should rub the 
body under the sheet, the patient assisting as much as he can. When the 
wet sheet is removed, rub the body with dry towels and cover it at once. 
This expedient has a good tonic effect on those who have a proper reaction 
after its use. To be sure, it should nor be applied if the patient is too weak 
or delicately constituted to withstand the shock produced. 

FEEDING THE SICK. 

Much has been said and written upon the kinds of food that are suit- 
able for the sick, but the average reader will find no more diflicultv in 
deciding what to give than in the times, frequencv and amount of food, 
and in the methods of preparation. It is obviouslv impossible to lav down 
invariable rules on these questions, but great assistance will be afforded 
by the following hints. 

Generally, the food should be offered about the time of the usual meals. 
If the patient's stomach is sensitive and the phvsical strength on the decline, 
it will be necessary to feed oftener and in small quantities. The nurse must 
study the case and exercise her ingenuity in putting the meals at such times 
as are best, her judgment being corrected by the patient's pleasure or aver- 
sion, and by the caution that in many acute disorders the absence of ap- 
petite is to be respected, since it is nature's protest against burdening the 
stomach. Very often a too solicitous attendant does harm by trying to 
tempt the appetite in such cases. On the other hand, too much care may 
be taken to secure regularity in the times of feeding, which will compel the 
patient to feel hunger — perhaps with the sequel that he can not eat when 
the usual hour comes. This is more particularlv true in chronic diseases, 
the sufferers from which are often too much starved. Change the hours 
when such a condition is noticed. 

Remember that a patient's stomach is sensitive. If you find that he 
can not take food as the doctor recommends, a cupful everv hour for example, 



MAN HOME NURSING. 471 

divide it and feed the oftener. Again, when preparing a meal do not put 
before the patient more than he is likely to eat; a greater amount will almost 
surely "turn the stomach" more or less. If food is very rich, give a less 
quantity; if you dilute it and thus increase the bulk out of proportion to the 
nutritive qualities, the patient will probably become tired or his stomach be 
filled before he has taken enough nourishment. 

Tn all cases, be sure that every article placed before a patient is pure, 
fresh, and properly cooked. An underdone potato, an egg the least tainted, 
or milk a little turned will almost certainly cause the whole to be left. 
Serve the food immediately after it is cooked. If the patient falls asleep 
while you are preparing it, as so often occurs, you must be painstaking 
enough to prepare it anew when he is ready for it. 

Be scrupulously neat in the food. A dry, clean, white or fancy napkin 
spread over the tray is a good appetizer. Food smeared over the dishes 
disgusts the patient. It is better to lay the knife fork and spoons, clean and 
bright, on the tray and allow him to put them in the dishes. Be careful not 
to spill the tea out of the cup into the saucer, so that you may avoid bad 
looks and the dripping of the fluid on the clothes and bedding. If you are 
to feed the patient, make the mouthfuls as tempting as you can. By mouth- 
fuls is not meant aggravatingly small bits, but those of fair size. If they 
are too small, weariness will come on before enough nourishment is taken. 
It is not polite or tidy to cool the food by blowing it, unless specially re- 
quested to do so; even then waving the food in the air, in a spoon or on a 
fork, is preferable. While feeding, keep crumbs from getting inside the 
patient's clothes, under the pillow, or in the bed. Make a diligent search for 
them afterward. The attendant rarely realizes how much annoyance and 
consequent fatigue are caused by a few minute, dry and hard crumbs which 
others do not notice. Do not talk to the patient while he is eating. Avoid 
all business topics and other matters of concern for some time after his meal. 

Remove beyond the sight and smell of the invalid any food that may 
be left. Instead of eating in the intervals, as some thoughtlessly hope, he 
will more likely be completely disgusted with all food. It is not desirable 
that even the drinks be continuously in sight. The odor from food in prep- 
aration, whether for the patient or the family, should not reach the sick- 
room, an observation which can not be too strongly urged. 

In general, the nurse must study the case carefully, noting particularly 
the amount of nourishment taken, thus forming an idea how much more is 
needed and being able to inform the doctor minutely upon this point. She 
should anticipate the wants of her charge by offering tempting food at such 
times as she knows he ought to have an appetite, be prompt in supplying 
what he needs and when he wants it, and be as careful not to give too much 



\ii COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

as she is to give enough. It is sometimes necessary to coax the appetite; 
even when an invalid says he wants nothing he may have a relish for some 
inviting food which the nurse unexpectedly puts before him. At times he 
persistently refuses food because his digestive powers are weakened; in 
which case some preparation of pepsin or other digestive fluid will be of 
service, particularly when animal food is included in the meal. 

SPECIAL ARTICLES OF FOOD. 

Observation must be the ultimate guide in determining what articles 
are suitable for a given patient. One stomach or system may demand what 
another repels, and this will explain the apparently contradictory nature of 
works on diet — the authors have studied different cases. Again, different 
books based upon chemical analyses have utterances which are often flatly 
opposed to experience, which is doubtless due in great measure to the fact 
that chemistry has only decided that a given article contains elements which 
the human body requires, but obviously cannot tell whether a given system 
will assimi/ate these elements. The common sense and observation of the 
nurse and doctor will be the safest reliance in each case. 

It does not come within the present limits to make a dainty cook of 
the reader; though the writer would be glad to do it, since a sick and sink- 
ing sufferer often the more rapidly declines because his attendant is versed 
in only the rudest cookery. In the preceding chapters are mentioned spe- 
cial articles of food and drink suited to the various diseases, and it now 
remains to tell how to prepare the most of the same, with others that 
will be in frequent demand. Of necessity the nurse must use what skill she 
has in preparing the more common foods, but should take the hints above 
given as an aid in its exercise. 

Li?ne- Water. — Put into a quart bottle or jar a piece of unslaked lime 
as large as a hen's egg, previously crushed down, and fill the vessel with 
fresh rain-water (if other water is used, it is better to boil it before using 
unless it is known to be pure). Let it stand from six to twelve hours, when 
the lime will be at the bottom, with the clear liquid above it. Pour off the N 
water for use without disturbing the lime. Keep the bottle or jar corked or 
covered to exclude dirt. As often as all the liquid is used, pour in water as 
before so long as the lime lasts or has strength. 

Barley- Water. — Wash two tablespoonfuls of barley, soak it thirty 
minutes in a little tepid water; then stir it, with the water, into two cupfuls 
of boiling water that has been very slightly salted; simmer an hour, stir- 
ring frequently; sweeten to taste; strain before using. 

Another method of making barley-water, often more palatable, is this: 



MAN HOME NURSING. 473 

Wash the same amount of barley as mentioned above in two or three waters; 
lightly drain; add a spoonful of good sugar and the peel of a quarter of a 
lemon, cut very thin; put the mixture into a vessel and pour on a pint of 
boiling water; cover the vessel and let it stand on ice; when cold, strain into 
another vessel; then use as desired. This preparation may be made thicker 
and stronger by using twice the amount of water and boiling for two hours 
before putting it on the ice. 

Oatmeal- Water. — Stir into a gobletful of cold water a tablespoonful of 
oatmeal; let it stand an hour; strain through a thin open cloth and drink 
when it has become cold. 

Toast- Water. — Put into a bowl some slices of thin toast, evenly 
browned without burning; cover them with boiling water; close the bowl 
to retain the steam, and allow the whole to cool; then strain, sweeten to 
taste and drink as cold as desired, flavoring or not as may be preferred. 

yelly- Water. — Stir into a gobletful of ice-water a tablespoonful of any 
good jelly, preferably such as is very tart, until they are thoroughly mixed. 

Albumen- Water. — Dissolve the whites of two eggs, without beating, in 
a pint or more of water, sweeten with pure glycerine, flavor with orange- 
flower water, and drink cold. 

Apple- Water. — Slice a large juicy apple, pour on a pint of boiling 
water, cover closely until cold, strain and sweeten to taste. 

Gum-Arabic Water. — Put into a jar or pitcher two teaspoonfuls of 
gum Arabic, a pint of boiling water, a teaspoonful of white sugar and the 
juice of one lemon; keep over a fire until the gum is dissolved; use cold. 

Lemonade. — Wipe the lemons well ; take off a thin layer of the out- 
side, avoiding the white portion ; then carefully remove the white parts and 
throw them away, since they impart a bitter taste to the drink; cut the 
remaining part into thin slices, throw out the seeds, and add half of the thin 
outside peel; put into a pitcher, with sugar according to taste, pour on 
boiling water, a pint or more to two lemons; cover and place on 
ice to cool. If it is to be very cold, put ice into it. It may be 
made more palatable and nourishing by putting into a gobletful of 
the drink — using the slices of a whole lemon — a raw egg previously 
beaten to a froth. In health it is best to take the pains in slicing mentioned 
above; pounded ice may then be used instead of making it hot at all, and 
an egg may be simply broken upon the top and be properly beaten by shak- 
ing the drink thoroughly in two cups that closely fit at the top. The last 
makes a refreshing and nourishing drink in hot weather. For colds and 
some other disorders where perspiration is to be secured, the lemonade is to 
be made as here directed and taken hot. 

Cornmeal Gruel. — Stir a cupful of cornmeal to a thin paste in cold 



±n 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



water, crushing out lumps; stir this into a quart of boiling water and let it 
boil for forty or fifty minutes, not allowing it to burn or scorch; salt to taste. 

Arrowroot Gruel. — Stir three teaspoonfuls of arrowroot into a little 
cold water until a thin paste is made; pour in a half-pint of boiling water 
and thoroughly mix; boil five minutes; add a little salt and some milk, and 
sweeten to taste. 

Oatmeal Gruel. — Slowly boil three ounces of oatmeal in a half-gallon 
of water until the whole is reduced to a quart; strain; add milk or not be- 
fore serving, according to the taste of the patient. 

Chicken Broth. — Dress a tender chicken, taking out the lungs (which 
are attached to the back), the skin, and all fat; chop all the remaining parts, 
including the bones, into small pieces; put this into a dish, salt and pour on 
a quart of cold water; let it simmer on a fire for two hours, strain so as to 
exclude all bits of bone and flesh; season to taste; if desired, thicken with 
flour or sago. 

Codfish Broth. — Pick codfish fine; pour on hot water; let it stand thus 
fifteen to twenty minutes, without boiling; strain off and season to taste. 

Another method of making codfish broth or soup is this: Cut the fish 
into thin slices across the grain; soak over night to extract the salt; pour off 
the water, put on fresh water and cook a half-hour; then add milk and a 
little flour for thickening; beat up and stir in an egg before serving. 

Dried- Beef Gravy. — Shave off a half-pound of dried beef into thin 
slices; wash for a few minutes; add a quart of milk and thicken a little with 
flour; stir it over the fire for a few minutes longer and serve at once. 

Chicken Soup. — Dress and cut up a young chicken; pound well, 
breaking the bones; add two quarts of cold water and salt to taste; stew for 
two hours; then strain and let it cool; skim off all fat before serving, and let 
it be eaten as warm as desired. 

Raw -Beef Soup. — Chop fine a pound of raw beef; add a pint of water 
and five drops of muriatic acid; place on ice for some hours in a corked or 
closely covered vessel ; then set the vessel for two hours in a pan of water 
at a temperature of no F.; strain the fluid well out of the mass, and serve. 
If the raw taste is disagreeable, it may be disguised by quickly roasting the 
beef on one side before chopping it. 

Beef Tea. — Cut a pound of fresh beef very fine, removing all fat and 
gristle, and soak it eight to twelve hours in one-third of a quart of cold 
water; then take out the meat (keeping the water), put it into a pint and a 
half of water and let it simmer two hours, adding hot water as evaporation 
takes place to keep it at the same level all the time; pour off the broth into 
the cold liquid previously reserved, squeezing the meat dry; now spread the 
meat in a pan, slowly dry it in an oven, then powder it finely and add it to 



MAN HOME NURSING. 475 

the liquid that was drawn off; salt to taste, add twenty drops of muriatic 
acid and three grains of pepsin. Before serving, skim off all the fat, or 
soak it up with white blotting paper or a piece of browned bread. 

The above is the best beef-tea obtainable, but the following will be a 
good substitute in most of the ordinary cases: Prepare the beef as just 
directed; soak it two hours in a pint of cold water; pour into a jar; set the 
latter in a kettle of boiling water and keep the water in the kettle boiling 
for three hours, at the same level all the time; then strain, salt to taste, and 
skim as before directed. 

Dr. Gatchell gives these eight essential hints about making beef-tea : 
Never let it boil. Always begin with cold water. The finer the beef is 
cut the better. No fat, gristle or bones should remain in the meat. A pint 
of water to a pound of beef is the best rule. If beef-tea jellies when cold, it 
is not properly made. After it is made, carefully remove all traces of fat 
from the surface. To warm it up, put it into a cup and set the latter in a 
vessel of boiling water. 

Oatmeal Porridge, — Mix two tablespoonfuls of coarse oatmeal into a 
gill of cold water, securing a uniform consistence; put it in a pan and pour 
in a pint of boiling water; stir and boil forty-five minutes; serve with cold 
milk. If the patient is not ready for it, it may be kept over a slow fire, if 
water is gradually added as evaporation goes on. 

Graham Mush. — Wet a cupful of Graham flour in a little cold water; 
stir this into a quart of boiling water previously salted; boil a half-hour, 
stirring continuously. 

Arrowroot Custard. — Wet three teaspoonfuls of arrowroot with a 
little cold milk and mix it into two cupfuls of boiling milk, stirring for 
three minutes; thoroughly beat together an egg and two tablespoonfuls of 
white sugar and whip it into the milk and arrowroot after they have been 
boiled the three minutes and taken from the fire; then put the whole over 
the fire, boil two minutes, flavor as desired, and serve cold or warm as it is 
preferred by the patient. 

Tapioca jfelly. — Put a cupful of tapioca into a basin and barely cover 
it with water, soaking it thus for four hours; then set the basin in a pan of 
boiling water, adding more water if it becomes too thick; keep it boiling 
and stir frequentlv until it is clear; then put in the juice of one lemon; flavor 
to suit and pour into moulds; serve cold with cream. 






CHAPTER XVI. 
HYGIENE. 

GENERAL REMARKS. 

teF all subjects pertaining to our physical being hygiene is first in point 
of importance. It is unfortunately true however that its study in 
practical life is generally second to that of disease in point of time. 
The closest students of health are the sick, to whom only the loss of 
a priceless possession has taught its value. The authors are convinced that 
this lamentable neglect results in great measure from the fact that works 
on hygiene are usually much lumbered with plausible theories which have 
innumerable logical rules and expedients, the greater number of which it is 
impossible to apply in connection with the daily duties of life and the sur- 
roundings of the average man. Upon this important theme therefore they 
will select from a long professional experience some simple rules and appli- 
ances whose observance is compatible with the cares of even a busy life. 

THE CARE OF THE SKIN. 

Few people have anything like an adequate conception of the great 
functions performed by the skin or of the serious diseases resulting from it- 
neglect. It is of the highest importance in a study of its care that the reader 
have an intelligent idea of its anatomy and physiology. He is therefore re- 
ferred to that subject as set forth in chapter VII. 

The advantages of thorough personal cleanliness are not generally ap- 
preciated. Among the ancient Hindoos, Egyptians and Hebrews it was a 
religious rite, with the priest as physician. Under the Mosaic dispensation 
the regulations respecting ablutions were most minute. Among the Romans 
the bath was a fashionable and pleasurable resort. Among all civilized 
nations cleanliness has been observed in deference to society, though it has 
too often been rather for the sake of securing an attractive exterior than in 
obedience to the laws of health. 

If one were to say to the average man or woman, "You are not clean," 
it is very certain that said average man or woman would be horrified and 

476 



MAN HYGIENE. 477 

feel insulted. It is a fact, nevertheless, that largely from ignorance, and 
partly from prejudice, we go through life "dirty," rarely knowing the phys- 
ical pleasure to be derived from perfect cleanliness. It may be asked, What 
is perfect cleanliness? As generally understood, this means that the sur- 
face is free from "dirt." But to be clean, not only the surface of the skin 
but its pores as well must be free from impurity. Complete closing of the 
pores is rare, but partial stoppage is a common source of disease. For ex- 
ample, consumption frequently has its origin in diseases of the skin which 
throw upon the lungs more labor than nature intended that they should 
perform. A general disorder of civilized nations is an unhealthy and inert 
skin. To preserve its healthy action is an important aim of the true physi- 
cian, and he has sought out many inventions and artificial means to this end. 

The demands and follies of fashion have led to a use of various cos- 
metics and like preparations for beautifying the skin, which is inconsistent 
with the cleanliness required by health. The pores of the skin are clogged 
up with a substance which, however poisonous it be, may furnish the most 
welcome food for mites that burrow in the skin. Some fastidious ladies 
who use them would be shocked by the approach of one affected with the 
much loaihed itch. Yet these toilet applications, by producing an unclean 
condition of the skin, invite parasites of larger size, and more repulsive 
appearance under the microscope, which thrive in great numbers in the 
follicles and glands of the skin until they are routed and drowned out by 
the flesh-brush and the free use of water. To be sure, other causes of un- 
cleanliness may lead to the same result, for nature seems to express her ab- 
horrence of filth in the body by inflicting upon "the unwashed" the para- 
sites whose presence, if known, society would brand as a disgrace. 

Those parts of the body which are most exposed, as the hands, face, 
neck and arms, should be washed at least twice a day, and as much oftener 
as one's occupation makes it necessary. Soft, luke-warm water should be 
used, with pure castile soap, the white being preferable. Persons with oily 
skins need more soap than those with dry, harsh skins. 

Not only the exposed parts, but the skin over the entire body should be 
kept clean by frequent baths of some kind from earliest infancy to old age. 
"Next to eating and sleeping," says a distinguished philosopher, "the bath 
may be ranked among the very foremost of the necessaries of life." 

BATHS. 

In taking baths, certain precautions must always be exercised. The 
bath should not be taken when the stomach is entirely empty, or when one 
is fatigued. Nor should it follow too closely after eating ; three or four 



478 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

hours should be permitted to elapse. The best time is about eleven o'clock 
in the morning, but for business people this is an inconvenient hour. 
Strong, healthy persons can bathe on rising in the morning, but that will 
not be prudent for the weak or invalids, unless especially prescribed by a 
physician. Though it is unquestionably true that very many people use 
baths too seldom and in an improper way, it is also certain that some bathe 
too often, and too indiscriminately as to times, frequency, and temperature 
of the water. The temperature of the various baths may be classified as 
follows : — 

F. 



Cold Bath, from 


below 


5 o° up 


to 


7°' 


Tepid Bath, 




8 5 o u 


u 


95' 


Warm Bath, 




9 6° " 


cc 


104' 


Hot Bath, 




102 ° « 


a 


no' 


Very Hot Bath, 




IIO° « 


« 


I20' 


Vapor Bath, 




96 ° « 


cc 


no 


Turkish Bath, 




IIO° « 


cc 


140 



The Turkish bath, used in moderation, is absolutely without danger 
and is the most efficient means of refreshment and reinvigoration. It is to 
be regretted that so few people avail themselves of this luxury. The pro- 
longed employment of sweating, as in the wet-sheet pack of water-cures, if 
indulged in to excess, gives rise not infrequently to boils and other erup- 
tions, which may be regarded as the result of debilitating treatment, instead 
of the escape of humors as some have said. 

Sea-bathing is beneficial but should not be indulged in by the very 
old or very young, or by those who have languid circulation, or those who 
have chronic disease of the lungs, heart or brain. The following is a formula 
for artificial sea-water: 

Chloride of Sodium (common salt), 9 lbs. 

Crystallized Sulphate of Sodium, 4 " 

Crystallized Chloride of Magnesium, 3^ " 

Crystallized Chloride of Calcium, 12 oz. 

This amount is sufficient for a single bath, and is to be dissolved in 
thirty gallons of water. Whatever the amount, keep about this proportion. 

THE HAIR. 

There is no difficulty in caring for the hair when it is worn short, as is 
the case with men and boys. It can be easily kept clean by plunging the head 
into a basin of water, briskly rubbing the scalp, and drying with a towel. 
Generally this is all that is necessary. If there be dandruff, it should not be 



MAN HYGIENE. 479 

removed by combing and brushing. Put a little borax into the water that 
is used for washing, and brush the scalp, or use the following formula: — 



Borax, i/ 2 drach 



m. 



Sulphate of Zinc, 5 grains. 

Rose Water, 6 ounces. 

Mix well. Rub on the spots of dandruff once a day. If after either 
application the hair be very dry and harsh, some of the preparations of petro- 
leum, as cosmoline, petrolina or vaseline, may be used as a dressing. 

In the case of women and girls, after the hair has once been allowed to 
grow it is better not to cut it, if it is desirable to let it grow long. If long 
hair is the glory of woman, it must be well cared for. It should be brushed 
twice a day, shaking it out and letting the air circulate through it. Keep 
the scalp perfectly clean. This is not an easy thing to do but it can be done, 
even when the hair is very thick and long. Braid it loosely, taking care not 
to wet unnecessarily any but the hair nearest the scalp. Use borax and 
water, or a little alcohol and water, or pure castile soap and water; part 
the hair with the fingers; rub every inch of the scalp thoroughly; then 
rinse carefully, not wetting the long braids much; dry by the fire with 
towels as well as possible; then with a coarse-toothed dressing comb and 
brush complete the drying process. 

Since it has become unfashionable to dye the hair after becoming gray, 
probably no caution is necessary regarding the pernicious effects of the lead, 
sulphur and nitrate of silver that are very often used in the dyes. 

Premature thinning of the hair is due to constitutional debility and 
chronic diseased conditions of the scalp, and sometimes it is hereditary. What- 
ever be the cause, it is best never to use any of the advertised " invigorators." 
It is with hair tonics as with most other patent medicines; they not only do 
no good but generally positive harm, beside depleting the purse. The best 
treatment, in general, for this and for premature change of the hair to gray 
is the bathing of the scalp often with equal parts of alcohol and water, then 
thoroughly rubbing in vaseline, cosmoline or petrolina. 

THE MOUTH AND TEETH. 

Of course no one in this enlightened age is ignorant of the necessity of 
caring for the teeth, on the grounds of both health and decency. Every 
morning they should be brushed and the tongue and mouth be thorough^ 
washed, that all of the accumulations of the night may be removed. After 
every meal they should be carefully cleansed with a soft brush and water, 
and occasionally a little prepared chalk and orris root may be used. The 



480 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



best tooth-pick is a quill, and it should be well but not violently used after 
every meal. 

The care of the teeth should begin at an early age. To be sure , the tem- 
porary teeth must be replaced by the permanent set, but the permanent 
ones must be trained to fill their proper places, and should not be allowed 
to come in contact with decay in the primary set or in themselves. A com- 
petent dentist should be frequently asked to inspect the teeth and correct 
existing evils during the period of shedding the temporary teeth, and all 
through life the teeth should be thus examined at least three times a year. 
The well educated dentist never extricates a tooth if it is possible to save it. 

THE HANDS AND FEET. 

In the summer season but little care is needed for the hands, except 
washing with fine soap and cold water and the daily use of the nail-brush. 
In cold weather pains should be taken not to go out with uncovered hands 
immediately after washing them. Cosmoline is a good preventive of chap- 
ping. Pure glycerine diluted with pure water is good for some skins, but 
does not agree with all. The nails should be carefully trimmed with sharp 
scissors (they are much better than a knife), not cut very short, shaped so 
as to give a tapering effect to the finger, and long enough to protect the 
flesh from injury. Files and like instruments should not be used. 

The foot is very delicately and wonderfully formed of bones and ten- 
dons, arranged in the form of an arch so as best to support the weight of 
the body, and to prevent any shocks to the person when walking. Fashion 
has tried to improve upon nature, both in the " heathen Chinee" and among 
our own enlightened people, who certainly ought to know that a shoe much 
narrower than the foot must inevitably produce corns and bunions. To 
preserve the natural shape of the foot, the shoe must be rightly formed, 
that is, in accordance with the outline of the foot. The leather should be 
soft and pliable, the heel being as large as the heel of the foot, and not more 
than one inch or three-quarters of an inch high. The effect of too high a 
heel is to throw the weight of the body forward, causing great strain upon 
the ankle-joint and making the walk tottering and ungraceful. 

High-top boots are not desirable, for they keep the leg in a perspira- 
tion, and they are uselessly burdensome to carry. Such boots can never be 
made to fit closely around the ankle and instep without being too tight else- 
where. Another objection to them is that they prevent due ventilation. 
No doubt the farmer or tourist will find rubber boots useful at times, but 
they become very offensive in a short time. Laborers in the country have 
a way of cleansing and sweetening them by filling them with dry oats when 



MAN HYGIENE. 481 

they remove them from the feet. The oats seem to absorb some of the im- 
purity that is collected. 

Shoes should be made "rights and lefts," and for obvious reasons chil- 
dren should not be allowed to change shoes to alternate feet. If the heel 
wears down more on one side than on the other, it should be raised. 
Stockings should be well fitted, no wrinkles being allowed. 

Every night the feet should be bathed, or at least wiped with a wet 
cloth, removing the perspiration that has accumulated and dried on during 
the day. The toe-nails should be carefully cut. It is well to use a nail- 
brush for them, so that all possible impurity may be removed. Should per- 
spiration be excessive, bathe with vinegar and water. See Excessive and 
Offensive Sweats and their treatment in another chapter. 

BEDS AND SLEEP. 

Probably one-third of every twenty-four hours is spent in bed. Is it 
not important that we receive all the benefit possible, when so much time 
is spent in reinforcing "tired nature?" Shall we not make our beds the 
best that art and science can suggest? 

First in importance is the mattress. It should be made of elastic ma- 
terial, supporting the body at all points. The hair mattress is without 
doubt the best. For delicate persons a thick cotton comfortable can be laid 
on it. Every bed should be fitted with some kind of springs. Probably 
the best kind is the woven-wire mattress. It is very durable, luxurious and 
cleanly. The pillows may be of feathers or hair; or the rubber air-pillows, 
which are so comforting to asthmatic persons, may be used. Sheets should 
be made of cotton; for summer use linen is not objectionable. The blankets 
should be all wool and of the best quality. The old-fashioned bed-quilt is 
the worst imaginable covering, having more weight than warmth. Beds 
should be well aired daily, and at least once a month everything pertaining 
to them should be exposed for several hours to out-door air, or to a high de- 
gree of heat, so that all effluvia which have been thrown off from the body 
and have found lodgment in the bed may be thoroughly removed. 

In the workings of the complicated machinery of our organism the 
tissues are constantly wearing out, and a waste taking place. That our 
food and drink are used to rebuild the system is known to all, and the 
methods of their distribution are elsewhere given. During our waking 
hours the wear is more rapid than the repair, while in sleep the latter is 
the more active. It will then be readily understood why a loss of sleep is 
so exhausting, and why, after a wakeful night, one feels more tired than 
when he lay down. The wear has been going on all the time, and its effect 



482 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

is weariness. One also sees the physiological folly of "economizing time" 
by shortening the hours of the sleep which the body requires. 

The function of sieep will at once suggest the great importance of 
observing regularity in its enjoyment. Xo rule can be adopted as to the 
length of time required. Differences of temperament, indicating differences 
in the activity of the body's organs and in the changes in the tissues, pre- 
sent different demands for sleep. Diet, habits, occupations, and the like, 
also modify the time. Though from six to eight hours may be given as a 
safe rule, many preserve health and their natural activity on much less, a 
hard worker, especially in the professions, occasionally getting the needed 
rest in four or rive hours. Children of course require more than adults. 

The best time for taking sleep is unquestionably from early evening 
to early morning, say from nine or ten to four or six. The time before 
midnight is so conducive to vigor of body and freshness of looks, as shown 
in innumerable instances, that the hours from ten to twelve have been 
named the "beauty hours." Early rising is healthful, beyond a doubt. To 
be sure, proper precautions will be taken against excessive cold and damp- 
ness, with special pains to prevent undue exposure in malarial districts. 
One's vocation or temperament may call for sleep during the day, and, in 
general, when one is ordinarily busy, he should look upon such an inclina- 
tion as a gentle warning of nature that the body needs rest, and yield to it 
when practicable. 

It has often been urged that one ought not to sleep immediately after eat- 
ing, but a short '-after-dinner nap"' is recommended by high authority, and 
experience certainly justifies it in some people. Xo fixed rule can be estab- 
lished as to this, for the system of one may demand what that of another 
may not need or even endure. The same general remarks apply to eating 
at night. While some are injured by taking food in the evening, others are 
unable to sleep under the slightest feelings of hunger, and should then not 
attempt to force themselves to it. That much wakefulness and illness are 
directly due to suppers at unseasonable hours there can be no doubt. That 
trouble also arises from the stated evening meal, after tzvo full ??ieals pre- 
viously on the same da\\ is equally true. Yet, with a light meal in the 
midst of the day's business, or none at all, it is believed that an early even- 
ing dinner is rather more conducive to health and sleep than an arrange- 
ment bv which the fuller meal comes in the middle of the day. One's ex- 
perience in this in his best guide. 

The sleeping-apartments should be located with the greatest care, being 
large, well ventilated and having if possible an eastern and southern expos- 
ure. As the air in the lower part of the house will almost certainly be 
loaded with impurities from its use during the day, it is not a desirable place 



MAN HYGIENE. 4S3 

for the bed. The sleeping-room should be opened to the sun and air during 
the day and the clothes be thoroughly aired in the morning before they are 
spread. It is best to lie on the side, preferably the right. Lying on 
the back tends to too great heat in the spine and too much pressure on it. 
Use a pillow that will keep the head a little higher than the rest of the body 

CLOTHING. 

The chief purpose of clothing is the protection of the body against the 
extremes of heat and cold and sudden changes of temperature. The more 
slowly a given material conducts heat the more efficacious is it for the pur- 
poses of clothing. Woolen fabrics rank first, and with them furs and the 
down of birds. Next are silk and cotton, linen being last. Color makes 
but little difference with regard to heat radiated from the body. When 
however the question is one of heat received, as from the sun, color makes 
a great difference and material very little; black being very much warmer 
than white. Loosely fitting garments are much warmer than tight ones, 
and successive layers than a thick one, two light-weight coats being warmer 
than a very heavy one, or two light undershirts than a heavy one. 

Clothing should be permeable to air. The woolen underclothing, 
which every one should wear in winter, should not be too fine or close in 
texture, preventing the passing of the perspiration through it. Gauze under- 
wear should be worn in summer; it guards against sudden chilling of the 
skin from profuse perspiration, by preventing too rapid evaporation. Linen 
should never be worn next to the skin; nor should the clothing worn during 
the day be allowed to remain on the person during the hours of sleep. 

Not much can be said in favor of corsets as made at the present day. 
There are some however that are unobjectionable, notably those made after 
the style of a dress-waist, with broad shoulder-straps and appliances for sup- 
porting the heavy skirts, thus relieving the abdomen and hips. The most 
modern as well as the ancient aesthetic ideas with regard to the size of the 
female waist are truly commendable from a physiological standpoint, nature 
being allowed by sensible people to determine this matter. 

FOOD AND COOKERY. 

Our life-makers are the provider and the cook. We are in their hands, 
to make as they can or will; strong or weak, buoyant or depressed, active 
or sleepy, bright, quick-witted, or dull and torpid. No other human office 
has such control over mankind as that of the house-keeper and cook. A 
position that wields so much power can be well filled only by persons of 



484 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

intelligence, appropriate culture, thorough discipline and experience; for it 
demands the exercise of talent and scientific acquirements. Elsewhere we 
have given directions for the preparation of food for the sick, with a number of 
valuable recipes. The limits of this work will not permit of a minute treat- 
ment of cookery as related to the intricate process of nutrition; suffice it to 
say that anything but the most casual attention given to the subject will con- 
vince any one of even tolerable intelligence that a startling influence is 
exerted upon the health and morals of mankind by the food we buy, and the 
methods of its preparation for the table. The provider and the cook, by 
their ignorance and unfitness, are responsible for much of man's distress, loss 
of power and early death. The dictates of the palate are, however, so 
agreeable that the well are slow to heed any rules laid down in books upon 
the question of their diet. Though the theme is important, and is usually 
treated at length in domestic works, detailed directions are well nigh 
useless here. When the reader becomes ill he will be ready to seek advice 
on diet — and he will find it in the article devoted to his ailment, and in 
the chapter on Home Nursing specific notes are given. 

EXERCISE. 

The physiological effect produced by muscular exercise is increased 
action of the respiratory and circulatory systems. By stimulating the res- 
piration it rids the body of carbonic acid and purifies the blood. By in- 
creasing the action of the heart it quickens all of the vital processes through- 
out the body, renews the tissues and removes the waste material. When 
exercise is properly conducted, the effect on the digestive system is very 
marked. The appetite is increased and more food is demanded to supply 
the necessary force. This increase of appetite is especially noticeable when 
the exercise is taken in the open air. 

When vigorous exercise is taken after a long period of rest, or by per- 
sons who habitually lead a sedentary life, more harm than benefit arises. 
Instead of the vital forces being quickened and the process of repair and 
removal being stimulated, they are brought almost to a stand-still by the 
blocking that occurs in the blood-vessels. Caution should always be used 
in changing from sedentary habits to arduous and exhausting labor. 
When exercise is undertaken without due preparation, or when the bodily 
powers are exhausted by fatigue, the ability to take food is sometimes 
diminished. It is of great importance, when great fatigue has been brought 
on, to see that the bodily powers are thoroughly recruited by rest before an 
attempt is made to take food. Indeed, it should be a rule that a period of 
rest shall intervene between work and eating. 



MAN HYGIENE. 485 

Our climate, from its excessive heat in summer and cold in winter, pre- 
vents many from taking walks; but no amount of physical exercise indoors 
can compare with a daily walk in the open air. Especially is this the case 
when there are consumptive tendencies. The plea of bad weather and inval- 
idism should not long be urged, acute illness being excepted. 

Walking is the best form of exercise, as it brings into action more 
muscles than any other. Running is not always safe or prudent. Dancing 
in itself is not hurtful, but as generally indulged in, under the stimulus of 
modern dancing-parties, in over-heated rooms, and followed by exposure to 
cold, it brings a dreadful train of evils. Horseback exercise is good. It is 
more exhilarating than walking, insures a more rapid change of atmos- 
phere, and is less fatiguing. Unfortunately society demands such an 
unnatural position for ladies, and such a dangerously long riding-habit, that 
for them not much can be said in favor of this fascinating exercise. Driv- 
ing in an open carriage is excellent for invalids and convalescents. A car- 
riage with curtains down at the sides and open at the back makes too great 
a draught for those who take cold easily. 

Some of the light varieties of gymnastics may be of service, but the 
swinging of heavy clubs around the head cannot be recommended. For 
those whose muscles seem deficient in nourishment and are soft and flabby 
nothing is better than " movements." These one can take every morning 
and evening when divested of clothing, such as rotating the arms, and pinch- 
ing and rubbing the flesh gently on all parts of the body. What the French 
call " massage " is excellent for those whose vitality is low. 

ABUSE OF EXERCISE. 

Exercise, like other good things, is in danger of being abused, as was 
hinted above. Those whose vocations demand much indoor mental work 
will do well, in the midst of so many appeals to cultivate their muscles, to 
keep in mind two points: — Fi?-st, the sole object of exercise, merely as 
exercise, is the preservation of a healthy action of the several organs, or 
the restoration of the same when lost; second, a high muscular develop- 
ment or very vigorous exercise does not insure and may diminish a capacity 
for mental achievement. Brawny muscle is no more a sign of health than 
are well developed intellectual faculties. Deranged livers, stomachs and 
other organs are very frequently found in the most powerful frames. If 
one trains his muscular powers to a remarkable point, he may expect that 
some other part of his organism will be deprived of its due. Phenomenal 
strength in one locality almost certainly tells of weakness in some other. 
If one's daily duties require a special intellectual activity and development, 



486 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

he can not reasonably hope to have also a remarkable strength of physique. 
No more, on the other hand, can a high state of mental culture be expected 
in the man who toils daily at heavy manual labor 

Many serious mistakes have been made from a belief that intense men- 
tal labor calls for vigorous physical exercise. Those of sedentary habits 
have taken long-continued exercise after a day of arduous toil, to secure a 
buoyancy of feeling and to induce sleep, but have failed in both because 
the vital energies have been too much reduced by the day's duties to endure 
the further strain. In such cases a less amount of exercise should be 
taken, and if the desired results are not experienced, the mind should be 
relieved of some of its regular tasks. Though a fair amount of physical 
exercise is of the highest importance to those of sedentary habits, agree- 
able change in one's work is of almost equal value. Entertaining recre- 
ations for the mind should be diligently sought by those so engaged. 

MENTAL RECREATION IN MANUAL LABOR. 

The existence of health among those who are engaged in manual 
work is so generally assumed that their wants are too much neglected in re- 
marks upon the subject of this chapter. Yet there is no doubt that such 
people, as a class, would have a better type of health if they would so order 
their duties that more time might be devoted to the exercise of the mind. 
Few have a just idea of the stimulating and toning effect that is imparted 
to the body in general by the normal action of the nervous system. It 
should be kept in mind that intellectual activity is highly conducive to 
physical health. If the energies of the body are kept drained by manual 
labor, the mental faculties will inevitably be deprived of their proper exer- 
cise, and be weakened if not destroyed. 

It is a popular impression that insanity is quite peculiar to the profes- 
sions. That this is not true is abundantly shown by statistics. Indeed, the 
greater numbers come from among the farmers, and especially farmers' 
wives. There is material for serious thought here. From previous re- 
marks upon the abuse of exercise it is reasonable to expect impeded action 
of the mind and consequent irregularities in the body among farmers, arti- 
sans and day-laborers who apply themselves very closely to their toils. A 
loss of the mind's balance among the housewives of these classes might as 
reasonably be expected, for their condition is more aggravated. They 
are not only subject to taxing physical employments, but are kept con- 
stantly in the midst of the same surroundings, with much to produce a de- 
pressing monotony, while they have less to divert the mind than the male 
members of the family whose duties necessitate some variety of scenes. 



MAN HYGIENE. -±87 

This taxing state of the mind is the occasion of much of the decline and 
sorrow which are ever attributed to an over- worked body. 

In view of the preceding remarks it is of the highest importance that 
the classes now under consideration insure to themselves some measure of 
mental exercise and recreation, as reading, excursions and other amuse- 
ments. A form of recreation which is of great moment and contributes 
most liberally to the happiness of the whole household, and especially to 
the women of the family, is the adornment of the home and its surround- 
ings. It is not necessary that this be expensive or elaborate, and such as is 
really essential is within the reach of all. Simple wall, table, floor and 
door-yard embellishments have an influence in stimulating the mind and 
spirits that is positively surprising. That they cultivate hope, good nature 
and happiness, being thus ready servants of domestic love, is a sufficient 
reason for securing them ; but they are in addition the sentinels which drive 
off disease and save bills for medical care which often far exceed the out- 
lay in their purchase. Every intelligent physician, knowing that the 
highest professional skill may be defeated by an unfavorable mental con- 
dition in the patient, always tries to keep those whom he is treating in the 
most hopeful and happy frame of mind, and thus testifies to the intimate 
dependence of bodily disease upon the state of the mind. The normal 
action of the intellectual faculties and their proper recreations, along 
with pleasing adornments in and about the home, are invaluable elements 
in securing health, happiness, and economy in the household. 

THE AIR WE BREATHE. 

Of the three chief requirements of physical existence, air, food and 
water, the one that must of necessity be constantly supplied is air, since life 
cannot be maintained without it. The normal components of air are oxy- 
gen and nitrogen, with a very low percentage of carbonic acid gas. Of 
these, the one essential to the support of animal life is oxygen. Nitrogen 
seems to act as a diluent to the oxygen, enabling it to be the more readily 
appropriated by the system. The carbonic acid gas is unnecessary to human 
life, but to the vegetable it is food, and with water often suffices to support 
the entire life of the plant. 

The transfer of oxygen to the body is effected by the act of breathing, 
by which it passes through the lungs to the blood. By an equally easy 
change the blood gives off the oxygen to the tissues of the body and takes 
up carbonic acid gas, which is then thrown off through the lungs and skin 
and enters into the atmosphere. The normal proportion of gases in the air 
is thus changed, there being less oxygen and more carbonic acid. 



488 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

This excessive carbonic acid gas, mixed as it is with more or less of 
organic refuse, should not be breathed ; hence the necessity of ventilation, to 
procure a fresh supply of oxygen and to allow the poisonous materials to 
escape. Even after the poison has been removed from the air, it may 
" paralyze " the red blood-corpuscles, and thus induce suffocation. It is 
said that air is bad and improper for continuous use when it contains, in 
consequence of respiration and perspiration, more than one part of carbonic 
acid gas in a thousand, and that a good air for chambers, in which a person 
may remain for a long time in a state of health and comfort, contains not 
more than .07 of a part in 1000. This statement must be qualified by the 
implied condition that the carbonic acid is derived from respiration. The 
poisonous element in badly ventilated places is now fully understood to con- 
sist, not of carbonic acid alone, but of the organic compounds which are 
given off simultaneously from the lungs and skin. 

It follows from the foregoing statements regarding the necessity for 
good air that we must know something about ventilation. Few people 
have the opportunity of building a house, of choosing the site, or in any respect 
influencing the surroundings; yet the business of life compels most of us to 
live in some particular locality and to take the soil, air, water and houses of 
that locality as we find them. Something may be done without great ex- 
pense to improve even the most unhealthy place. The first most natural 
means of ventilation is the opening of windows. A window opened an 
inch at the top and the same at the bottom makes very good ventilation 
without much draught. It is an error to suppose that, because carbonic 
acid gas is heavy, the air rendered foul by respiration and combustion tends 
to the floor. If the gas were pure, it would, as the simplest kind of ex- 
periment shows, be heavier than air; but when diluted and heated it mixes 
with the air and is only to be separated by the operation of chemical or 
vegetable agencies. In general, if the air to be admitted cannot be warmed, 
it should be admitted eight or ten feet from the floor and be directed up- 
ward; if warmed at the bottom, outlets can be made at any point. 

Cheap heating implies poor ventilation. In the temperate regions, 
where the mercury ranges through the year from ten degrees below zero to 
one hundred above, artificial heat must be supplied for six or seven months 
of the year, with occasional fires at all seasons for cool mornings and even- 
ings. It was a sad change and a most questionable improvement when the 
open and capacious ventilating fire-places of a former day gave place to air- 
tight stoves and almost air-tight apartments. If it is one's misfortune to 
occupy a house in which there are no aids to ventilation, such as open fire- 
places, valvular ventilators, or any of the best modern contrivances for secur- 
ing a supply of pure air, he can certainly open the windows and keep 



MAN HYGIENE. 489 

them open night and day. It has been thought by some that a large and 
high room does not need ventilation. The only permanent advantage of 
great space lies in the fact that we can ventilate freely without giving rise 
to a perceptible draught. 

The air of small rooms, where one or more persons are always 
present, must be impure unless a fresh supply is frequently admitted. It 
should not be supposed, because one does not suffer direct inconvenience, 
that the air is of sufficiently good quality. Think of small apartments 
heated during cold weather with stoves, great care being taken to exclude 
the air as though it were an enemy instead of a friend! Is it surprising 
that indisposition is so often experienced ? There may be oxygen 
enough to sustain life, it is true, but the majority of the human race live at 
a "poor dying rate," when they might by a little thought and care be 
typical specimens of health. Air which is changed rapidly may be per- 
mitted perhaps to contain a relatively larger proportion of carbonic gas. 
In railway carriages, for example, the air may be considered pure and good 
as long as it does not contain more than ten parts per ten thousand of the gas. 

THE WATER WE DRINK. 

Water makes up two-thiras of the body. It is constantly passing out 
of the system through the skin, lungs and kidneys, either as a vapor or a 
liquid, there being through these channels an annual loss of about two 
thousand pounds. We can thus arrive at some idea of the amount required 
to be taken into the body, for the maintenance of health makes it neces- 
sary that the compensation be equal to the loss. Since so large a portion 
of the body is made up of water, it is easy to understand that health and 
disease are largely dependent upon its purity or impurity. 

The careless drinking of ice-water is frequently attended with in- 
jurious results. This is especially true when the person is in an over- 
heated condition, because at such a time severe gastric derangements may 
be produced, and occasionally serious nervous disturbances. It has been 
taught by physicians until recently that drinking freely of any fluid during 
meals is a common cause of dyspepsia. But now physiologists agree that 
it is proper to drink as thirst requires, if only mastication be slow and the 
mixing of the saliva complete. To quench thirst, water should be com- 
paratively pure, as well as palatable. The absolutely pure distilled water 
does not answer the purpose of a drink. A moderate amount of earthy 
salts is beneficial. Rain water is healthful, but it is only in exceptional 
cases that it can be procured in anything like a pure condition. The at- 
mosphere is loaded with organic matter and the roofs from which it is col- 



490 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

lected are usually dirty. Again, after the exclusive use of rain-water for 
many years, there is a diseased condition that may be traced to a lack of 
earthy salts. 

The effects of drinking impure water differ according to the polluting 
material. An excess of mineral substances may produce dyspepsia and 
constipation. Gravel and calculus are more common where an unusual 
amount of lime is contained in the drinking-water, and headache often at- 
tends the use of that which contains iron. Lead pipes used to conduct soft 
water may cause lead-poisoning, for as small an amount as one-tenth of a 
grain of lead to the gallon is injurious. Probably the worst pollution comes 
from animal matter, especially that which is found where a cemetery is be- 
tween the original fountain and the place of consumption. 

Our water-supply is derived from springs, wells, lakes and rivers. 
Deep wells and springs, as a rule, furnish better water than shallow ones. 
These vary in excellence according - to the geological formation of the dis- 
trict where situated. Even springs and deep wells become polluted from 
surface drainage and through fissures in the rock in which thev are located. 
In crowded localities shallow wells are never safe. The ground becomes 
saturated with filth from adjacent cess-pools, privies and drains, and the use 
of the water is attended with danger. Rotting animal matter converts 
drinking-water into a deadly poison. The principal diseases known to 
arise from water that is contaminated with such organic matter are 
diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera and enteric fever. Typhoid or enteric fever is 
the household fever of our country, and is known to be a special prod- 
uct of decaying human excrement, the most frequent method of infection 
being from water-pollution. 

When water is obtained from public supplies it is exposed to pollution 
either at its source, or from defective mains, or from imperfect plumbing, the 
most common pollution at its source being the sewage of cities and towns. 
Large bodies of water lessen the amount of pollution in a given quantitv, 
but even then there is danger. The public water-supplies of cities on our 
great lakes show that the procuring of the water at a j:>oint several miles 
distant from the outlets of sewers is not an absolute guarantee against 
organic matter, for when the wind blows continuouslv in a certain direction 
it carries the sewage along with the current. 

Foul reservoirs are also a source of danger, as well as leaky mains in 
close proximity to sewers, for intercurrents may be set up and carry the con- 
tents of the sewers directly into the water. 

Where there is any doubt about the puritv of the water it should be 
filtered and boiled, then cooled. An almost inconceivablv small percentage 
of poisonous matter has been known to produce very grave results, so that 



MAN HYGIENE. 491 

the strictest precautions will not only be wise but will avert the danger of 
many forms of disease and suffering that arise from unsuitable water. 

DRAINAGE, PRIVIES, ETC. 

A topic that is so closely related to the health and comfort of the house- 
hold as drainage should not be left to the exclusive study of architects and 
engineers. Every one should have some knowledge of the sanitary require- 
ments of the family. That many diseases are due to removable causes con- 
nected with the construction and arrangement of the dwelling and its im- 
mediate surroundings, there can be no doubt. Country houses, farm-houses 
and laborers' homes are not less subject to sanitary criticism than are those 
of the wealthier class in crowded cities. Yet their defects are mainly of a differ- 
ent character and relate more to the condition of the cellar, the grounds 
about the house and the water-supply than to the arrangement of the inte- 
rior drainage. In point of fact, such houses have no drainage at all, and the 
country physician derives his chief support from the condition consequent 
upon this fact. 

It is not necessary to accumulate evidence as to the fatal effect of prev- 
alent carelessness and filthiness in the cellar and in the soil about the house, 
for nearly all deaths from typhoid fever in the country are traceable to the 
use of poisoned water from wells situated near barn-yards or privies. The 
action of poisoned water is not as sudden and direct as that of a well-aimed 
rifle, it is true, but it is scarcely less certain, sooner or later. Diphtheria and 
like diseases are not afflictions sent by an inscrutable Providence for some 
hidden purpose of discipline, but are simply results of the unvarying oper- 
ation of certain laws which govern disease and health, striking both the just 
and the unjust without distinction, only awaiting the due coincidence of con- 
ditions. A wet cellar is dangerous and is to be in ail cases avoided, aban- 
doned, or supplied with a little drain or ditch dug from its lowest point. 
This observation is of pressing importance. 

In a country house not a hundred miles from a great city the weary, 
stifled dweller of the metropolis is invited to rest under the cool shade of the 
beautiful trees; the house is the home of a wealthy farmer, and, although 
large, is almost lost to sight, hidden by the dense foliage of the wide-spread- 
ing trees; the house is on ground lower than the surrounding surface; the 
cellar in the autumn is filled with vegetables and fruits that decay more or 
less; the cellar walls are always damp; to prevent freezing in the winter 
there is a temporary embankment of straw and manure all around the house 
two or three feet high. This cellar is seldom cleaned, that is, it is not thor- 
oughly done. There is not a month in the year in which some member of 



492 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the otherwise prosperous family is not ill, and there are two chronic invalids. 
Is it any wonder? 

The modern system of sewerage in our large towns, while perhaps 
better than nothing, is oftentimes a covert enemy, all the more dangerous 
because hidden. People spend millions of money to convey the foul debris 
of a city through underground channels because they fear the pollution of 
the air they breathe; yet with all ingenuousness they establish communica- 
tions between these repositories of deadly filth and the apartments of their 
dwellings through stationary wash-stands, bath-tubs and other pipe-appli- 
ances. " What shall we do about it," asks one who has read much and 
heard more concerning the crying evil of defective drainage. If one is for- 
tunate enough to control the building of his own house, he should employ 
the most skillful architect and plumber. Water-closets and bath-rooms 
should be as remote as possible from all living-rooms and sleeping-apart- 
ments, and should be provided with ventilating pipes that extend above the 
roof of the house. The old-fashioned washbowl and pitcher are preferable 
to the stationary wash-basin which is connected with the sewers. 

Dry-Earth Closet. — Having spoken of some special points of more 
immediate importance to those who live in cities, it is here in place to treat 
of one of the most common and repulsive sources of pollution in the air, soil 
and water on the farm and in the smaller towns — the privy. Only in ex- 
ceptional cases is commendable wisdom evinced in its location, construction 
and care. More commonly the excrement is deposited on the surface and 
accumulates and ferments until it is offensive and injurious in the extreme, 
and the soil is thoroughly impregnated with active poisons which find their 
way into wells and cisterns, to say nothing of the noxious odors with which 
they load the air. Less often we find vaults used as a means of hiding the 
excrement from sight and saving the labor of frequent removals; but they 
contaminate the atmosphere none the less and poison the soil and water-sup- 
plies more effectually. Either kind of privy is bad enough, and is produc- 
tive of unpleasantness and disease. Those who have wind-mills and a tank 
can easily provide a water-closet, the best arrangement of all; others we 
would advise to avoid vaults and make a dry-earth closet, which will be 
found cleanly and easily managed. 

We adopt a description found in the annual report of the State Board 
of Health of Wisconsin, presented by Professor Henry as a narrative of his 
own experience. He took an ordinary privy, elevated it two feet from the 
ground, the sides and front resting on a strong foundation, the back part 
being entirely without foundation. The old vault was filled up with fresh 
earth, and all odors were thus destroyed. Next a strong tight box of two- 
inch pine plank was made to hold the droppings and drv earth. The sides 



MA N HYGIENE. 493 

were twenty inches high and the bottom sixteen inches wide. It was twenty 
inches wide at the top, which was left open. This box was placed on two 
runners made of scantling about five feet long. These runners projected 
about three feet in front of the box, and at the extremities of the runners and 
above a cross-piece was bolted, to which, by means of double-trees, a team 
could be attached. The whole when completed resembled somewhat a 
very wide, short sleigh on low runners. Under the privy two planks were 
placed to support the runners when the box was slid in so as to be directly 
under the seat. When thus shoved under, the box completely closed the 
opening at the back of the building. The next step was to prepare a re- 
ceptacle for dry earth. This was accomplished by making a box inside the 
privy, long enough to hold several bushels of earth, and placing it in a cor- 
ner against the wall so as to be filled through a small door cut through the 
side of the building. The bottom of the box was placed more than a foot 
above the floor and was provided below with a spout through which the 
dry earth could run into a low box. A common dipper to handle the earth 
with completed the arrangement. At first dry earth, taken from the road 
during dry weather, served an excellent purpose. At present, the earth is 
prepared by spreading fresh soil over boards, laid on the ground in the wagon- 
shed a couple of months before being needed. Experience has shown that 
a small dipper full of earth after each sitting is amply sufficient to keep 
down all odors. When the box becomes full, a team is hitched to the cross- 
piece before described, and it is drawn to the field, where it is dumped by 
unhooking the team and two men lifting at the runners. 

It will be seen that this method of disposal is simple and inexpensive. 
In the whole process one does not encounter as much odor as in remaining 
in the ordinary privy five minutes. It is pre-eminently practical on the farm, 
as any privy can be so located as to be approached by a team from the rear. 
The box to be placed below the seat can be made by any farmer-boy hav- 
ing ordinary skillfulness in the use of the saw and hammer. Instead of the 
box for holding the dry earth as described above, a barrel might be used. 
The dry earth should be fine and as free as possible from sticks and stones, 
if it is to run well through the spout into the box described. The amount 
of earth necessary for the purpose is far less than one would suppose who 
had not tried this system. Of course, to succeed some one must have an 
oversight of the affair and a little daily attention is needed, as there are al- 
ways careless persons about, whose habits are not at all creditable, but the 
attention required is usually quite small. 

The same writer very wisely suggested that there be two privies on 
the farm. One should be located at the barn and convenient for those 
working there morning and evening. The best location for that designed 



494 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

for house-use is in the woodshed, which should be attached to the house. 
By so placing it, it is accessible at all times without that exposure now so 
universally forced upon all the household during inclement weather. 

HEREDITY AND MARRIAGE. 

Heredity, or the tendency in living beings to transmit to their descend- 
ants one or more of their own characteristics, is a subject of profound inter- 
est and importance. Its discussion is most intimately connected with that 
of hygiene, since it involves the consideration of those elements of health 
and disease which exist prior to birth. High scientific authority pronounces 
it " an ascertained fact" thac the germ in the womb contains " not onlv the 
anatomical structure of the individual that is to spring from it, but also his 
temperament, character, aptitude, sentiments and thoughts. The parents 
place in this molecule the future of an existence which is nearly always the 
counterpart of themselves physiologically, oftentimes pathologically, and 
in many instances psychologically." 

That there is a very general, though not universal, transmission of 
physical traits is demonstrated in the innumerable instances of " family re- 
semblances," in the form, the facial features and expression, the color of the 
eyes and hair, the muscular strength, the gait, and other movements. One 
family is often cited in which for several generations the offspring had six 
toes in place of the almost universal five, and many other remarkable ex- 
amples of transmitted physical traits might be adduced. Even peculiarities 
of body produced by scientific experiments upon the lower animals have left 
their traces in the offspring. As eminent a man as Professor A^assiz has 
mentioned instances in which marks from surgical operations have been 
transmitted. These effects of mechanical agencies onlv emphasize the nat- 
ural tendencv of the bod}'. 

The inheritance of physical resemblances we are wont to regard as 
perfectly natural; but we do not act the rational part in lightly esteeming 
the hereditary consequence of disease. " This much is certain," says an 
author above cited, " that the fatal character of hereditary diseases is a 
great and mournful fact, of which the}' only are fully and sadlv conscious 
who have daily to witness its consequences. One must see the premature 
infirmity, the long-continued suffering, the irreparable catastrophes, the 
slow, cruel tortures, to which parents oftentimes condemn their children, to 
form a judgment of the power possessed by the demon of disease which 
lurks in the depth of their being." That one who suffers is liable to entail 
the same suffering upon his or her offspring is a matter of startling mo- 
ment and demands the soberest thought. 



MAN— HYGIENE. 495 

There is as conclusive evidence that scrofula, tubercular consumption, 
gout, cancer, tetter, and other diseases, are transmitted as that the stature 
and features are, though the instances may not be as numerous. No other 
diseases, however, are so frequently inherited as those of the nervous system. 
It is a matter of frequent remark that insanity is inherited, and the thought- 
ful regard with apprehension the advent of a child of an insane parent, or 
of one in a family in which the taint is found. Many physicians estimate 
that one-fourth of all insanity results from heredity. 

The tendency of nervous disorders to perpetuity is shown by the diver- 
sity which they assume. Insanity, for example, may be handed down 
in the form of epilepsy, St. Vitus' dance, idiocy, hysteria, hypochondria, 
or these may in turn transmit insanity. Nervous disease or exhaustion may 
show its effects in degeneracy of body or general eccentricity of organism 
in a succeeding generation. 

Whether an appetite for alcoholic drinks and narcotics may be in- 
herited has been freely discussed. Whatever may be said as to a real appe- 
tite, there can be little or no reasonable doubt that the continued use of 
alcohol, tobacco, opium, and like stimulants, often produces such a deficiency 
of vital forces in the offspring that an innate desire is felt for something to 
supply an undefined want. The use of the stimulant will be more readily 
acquired in the child because of this inborn degeneracy, though it has not 
been proved that some other stimulant, if first tried, may not as readily be 
taken up as a habit. That the descendants of those who are addicted to 
the use of such poisons are often epileptic, insane, idiotic, or otherwise 
afflicted in the nervous system, is a fact too well attested and too sad in its 
aspects to arouse anything less than the most sober thought and, in many 
cases, the most abject humiliation. 

Extreme exhaustion of body may also show its effects in a second 
generation. However complete the health of the parents, if either of 
them has been subjected to long-continued and taxing physical exertion, 
the result of the undue strain on the vital powers will manifest itself in an 
enfeebled constitution of the offspring. This may be particularly said of 
the children of an over-taxed mother. The second generation may appear 
complete in body, while essential weakness is evinced in a lack of endur- 
ance and persistence. This remark will offer a just defense for many who 
are rebuked for not exercising that which they never had. One generation 
cannot expend more than its due proportion of energy without robbing 
its posterity. 

While heredity in the body is noticed by even a moderately careful 
observer, it is scarcely less apparent in the mental faculties. Thousands of 
instances of superiority in the arts and sciences are traceable to this ten- 






COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



dency. The Bacn family, eminent in music for two hundred and fifty years, 
is often mentioned as an illustration, while noted men in the natural 
sciences, mathematics, astronomy, statesmanship, and other domains of 
thought, are very often the descendants of those who stood high in the 
same fields. It has been maintained, too, that " imprudence, penuriousness, 
lis honesty or good judgment persists as much as the familiar eves or 
nose."' Good and bad traits equally tend to permanency and growth in de- 
scendants; what a parent has gained appearing as instinct in the offspring, 
with greater or less exactness according to the influence of associated 
agencies, such as the traits of the other parent and the opportunities and 
demands for the exercise and development of the transmitted acquisition. 
It has been urged that this supposed heredity is simply the result of 
imitation and education. This is fully met by the fact that the same traits 
assert themselves even when the child in infancy has been removed from 
the parents entirely and subjected to influences not favorable to the 
hereditary tendency. 

Because eminent poets, artists and scholars have appeared without an 
ancestrv distinguished in the same fields, and have left descendants of either 
moderate or inferior qualities, there is a diversity of opinion as to the po- 
tencv of hered::v id the mental faculties. That in the mind the law is not 
so uniformly visible in its effects as it is in the body there can be no doubt. 
One might anticipate this, however, prior to investigation; for it is only the 
higher activities of the intellectual powers which arrest the attention in 
this matter, and they are always the result of more or less education or 
training. Heredity in them, therefore, insures only the capacity to become 
exceptional and thus notable, while physical likenesses are from their 
nature apparent to the eye from the beginning. 

The fact of the transmission of mental faculties is not questioned ; 
the difference of opinion is upon the extent of its manifestations. The 
same remark applies equally to moral qualities. It has been shown by 
various independent examinations of statistics that families have for succes- 
sive generations been marked bv dark lines of theft, murder, lying, sensu- 
alitv, and the like, while others have been as noted for virtue. The per- 
plexities in the study of this kind of inheritance are as numerous as those 
concerning the mind, and doubtless more so. We do have instances of 
immoral offspring from the most upright parents, but it is obvious that in 
such cases the universal desire is to conceal any immoral tendency in the 
ancestrv. On the other hand, virtuous men and women rise from the level 
of immoral ancestors, but the public is less interested in the ancestry of 
such, and the line is less accessible to investigation. 

What shall we conclude from the fact- before usr That the descend- 



MAX HYGIENE. 497 

ants of those who are diseased in body, mind and spirit will inevitably be 
similarly afflicted? Certainly not, though this is the logical conclusion 
from the words of some extremists. " That hereditary influences make 
their mark in predispositions, in fixed tendencies, it were unscientific to 
deny; but yet it would be' inexact to pretend that they implicitly contain 
the future states of the physical being, and determine its evolution." In 
this temperate manner M. Papillon uttered a protest against looking upon 
heredity as a fatality. The "evolution" or final outcome of predisposi- 
tions and tendencies is largely under the control of training and observance 
of a proper hygiene. By such means the development of transmitted dis- 
ease may often be prevented, and when one knows that he is predisposed to 
such, he should make his case a subject of calm study, and adopt means of 
arresting its advance. It is his solemn duty to take every precaution 
against imposing his disorder upon others, even if that implies the smoth- 
ering of the fondest anticipations of parentage. 

With the facts before one it is certainly reprehensible to beget off- 
spring without carefully considering what, in the light of the knowledge 
he has, may be reasonably expected. It is not urged that physical perfec- 
tion should be a necessary condition to the enjoyment of progeny, for such 
perfections do not exist. But may not one be held to a sober accounta- 
bility who, afflicted with a known disorder, joins himself, in the prospect of 
issue, either to another with a similar ailment, to one who is known to be 
so predisposed, or to one who is notably weak in other important particu- 
lars? Such a duplicating of tendency greatly increases the probabilities of 
hereditary diseases. 

Unborn generations who have no will in entering upon existence 
have claims which are entitled to the most pains-taking respect. It is not 
enough that one surrender himself to the fascinations of his sensibilities, 
with a resolution, in compensation, to correct by hygienic observances and 
education any ill effects which may arise — and which he had it in his 
power to avoid. That such observances and training can do much there 
is no question, and it is a most gracious and beneficent provision of the 
Creator to give the means of partially atoning for violations of the past. 
But what of those violations which are committed with the facts under- 
stood ? Is one accountable to his posterity for them ? Is it one's right to 
form such alliances in response to impulses of sentiment, however noble in 
themselves, when his judgment foresees probable misery as a consequence? 

It will be asked whether, in the ordering of the marital relations, these 
facts should have an important influence, and ever counterbalance the incli- 
nations of the heart. Why not? Is it true that, of all of God's crea- 
tures, the only one not needing care and judgment in propagation is the 
32 



498 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



highest of all — man, who can suffer most or be most happy from the bad 
or good results of heredity? He doubtless does the part of wisdom 
who makes his calmer reason an arbiter in the decision of a question of so 
much moment to himself and his fellows. Every child has an inalienable 
right to be well born. For pecuniary reasons man takes great pains to 
secure quality and soundness in the animals which serve him, but he too 
often leaves to the unaided promptings of the heart, the founding of the 
temple in which is to dwell, perhaps in impurity, disease, and consequent 
misery, the divine part of posterity. The growth and activities of the 
soul and mind depend very largely upon the condition of the body in which 
they dwell. 

Those who shall heed these remarks and weigh the facts of nature 
given above should know that heredity follows family lines^ and is 
not confined simply to parent and child. A hereditary trait often disap- 
pears in a second generation, but comes up in a third or later one, a fact 
which explains the phenomenon of a greater resemblance between uncle 
and nephew, or between two more remotely related, than between parents 
and children. Hence, in considering the matter of hereditary tendencies of 
himself and of others, one should study the history of the families con- 
cerned as far as practicable. It should also be kept constantly in mind that 
a disease in one generation may afterward appear in another form. 




PART II 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES. 




PART II. 



THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES. 



INTRODUCTION. 

BY LEROY F. CAGWIN, ESQ., JOLIET, ILL. 



THE PREHISTORIC HORSE. 

; OSSIL bones of the horse have been found in both hemispheres 
together with those of other animals which indicate an antiquity as 
great as any fossil quadruped. The relics found in Europe in the 
' == yy' bone caves and drift deposits consist of innumerable skeletons as well 
as representations by drawing and carving on reindeer horn, bone and ivory, 
executed by their contemporary man countless ages before history began. 
Ecker says that the European horse of the fourth epoch probably gave birth 
to the small stunted breed with the large head, rounded forehead and short 
neck, which is found in fossil remains at Solutre and is still represented by 
the wild horses of the Rhone delta and the steppes of Russia; but he adds 
that this primitive breed was almost entirely supplanted by an Asiatic breed 
larger and more robust, and that our domestic horse is the result of a mixture 
of the two. The problem of the origin of the hors^ can no more be solved 
than that of man ; unless we assume the unity of species, and that the Great 
Architect created each kind in a specific mould at the beginning, subject to 
the law of variation, limited by the power of reproduction each of its kind, 
that man, animals and plants had attained a degree of perfection in 
variety at some period or periods in the remote past, and that the. process is 
now going on, slowly recovering from the great inundation which over- 
whelmed the earth during the glacial epoch. 

501 



502 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

THE HORSE IN HISTORY. 

Traces of the horse have been found in nearly all ages and all countries 
since the flood, the period at which history seems to have dawned. From 
time to time as the exigencies have demanded varieties of the horse have 
been produced suitable for the purposes required of them. In following the 
march of civilization from the very first, the finer breeds appear to have 
been maintained by the introduction of the Arab stock. Egypt, the most 
ancient of civilized monarchies that have left monuments to tell their history, 
as we gather from Rawlinson's "Ancient Egypt," introduced horses, prob- 
ably from Arabia, under the eighteenth dynasty, and they seem not to 
have been known in the earlier times. They were regarded as too noble 
and perhaps too valuable for draught and agricultural purposes, like the ass 
and the ox, but were commonly either ridden or employed to draw curricles 
and chariots, chiefly by men of the upper classes. Great numbers were re- 
quired for the chariots and cavalry. A brisk trade was carried on with 
Syria and Palestine where they were in great request and commanded high 
prices. It appears that they were not allowed to graze in fields but were 
kept constantly in stalls and fed on straw and barley. They seem to have 
resembled the Arab stock, being light, agile and high-spirited, and were 
probably introduced into Egypt by the Hyksos. 

The same class of horses apparently figures on the monuments of the 
ruins of Nineveh, Babylon, Assyria, Persia, and other ancient oriental coun- 
tries, while later, toward the decline of the Persian Empire and the rise of 
the Grecian, and about the time that the horse was beginning to be cultivated 
in Europe, the cavalry and war horse was stouter, of heavier quarters and 
limbs, drooping more at the croup, and altogether of a stockier mould and 
darker color. Peering into the realms of fancy we can weave a picture 
which the insufficient light of history can not satisfactorily complete. We 
can perhaps see the relation and conclude that the parent Aryan stock of 
the Caucasian civilization was the original possessor of the fine breed of 
horses known to oriental countries as the Arab, the white albinoish color 
and the refinement and symmetry peculiar to both going far in evidence. 

The great epoch in the history of the horse is at the time of the 
rise of the Indo-Germanic nations. Spain before England was the 
nursery of the fine blooded horse. The northern countries supplied the 
ponderous horse used for war. The cavalry of the time, requiring the heavy 
armor for both rider and horse, created the necessity of a heavy animal, and 
to this fact we are indebted for the introduction of the modern draught horse 
about the time of the Norman conquest. 

From that time the variety of purposes to which the horse has been 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. ')(J8 

found useful has given rise to all the so-called breeds, such as the draught horse, 
thoroughbred race horse, hunters, cobs, hackneys, coach horses, saddle horses, 
trotters, pacers, buggy horses, ponies, and others, the fashion continually 
changing so that new breeds are coming forward and old ones falling out; 
but none of these necessarily become obsolete, as they can at any time, if 
fashion demands, easily be cultivated to a standard in a few generations. 

THE MODERN HORSE. 

Presuming that the perfect horse combines all the possible requisites 
after the original design, we may further state that individuals of the species 
are subject to variation, so that no one animal combines all qualities in 
perfection, and no two are exactly alike, the physiological causes of which 
will be discussed under their respective heads. The classification that 
appears most suitable comprises four groups, namely: The Primitive, the 
Refined, the Varied, and the Common or Domestic. 

The Primitive. — The primitive stock, now found as a type in the 
high latitudes, is most nearly identical with the prehistoric horse. Left to 
their own resources, without domesticating influences, these are small, 
tough and hardy, of round build, large heads, short, heavy necks, sturdy 
limbs, dark and shaggy coats, familiar to all who are acquainted with the 
Shetland ponies, or better, with the old French and Scotch. 

The Refilled. — This class is typified in the Arab horse of ancient and 
modern times. The white, gray, and delicate lighter shades are an index 
of their refinement and purity; their artistic mould, the superb design of 
their proportions, and the exquisite carving of their form being very sug- 
gestive of antique statuary, there being a marked contrast to the more 
sturdy northern horse. 

The Arab of ancient history is finely represented in bas-relief in the 
ruins of Konyunjik, as we learn from Layard's " Nineveh and Babylon." 
A satisfactory description of the modern Arab also appears in the same 
work, from which we gather that great attention is paid to pedigree, it 
being the first consideration. Arabs divide their thoroughbred horses into 
five races, descended, as some declare, from the five favorite mares of the 
Prophet. The greatest number now, as formerly, is to be found in Meso- 
potamia and the great plains watered by the Tigris and Euphrates. The 
best are probably those of the Shamas and Aneyza tribes. 

The Arab horse is remarkable for its exquisite symmetry, united with 
wonderful powers of endurance, rather than for extraordinary speed. Their 
color is generally white, light or dark gray, light chestnut, or bay, with 
white or black feet. Black is exceedingly rare, and Mr. Layard never 







3£* 



(504) 



THE HORSE — INTRODUCTION. 505 

remembers to have seen dun, sorrel or dapple in the true-bred Arab, and 
when these colors occur the breed has been crossed. Their average height 
is fourteen to fourteen and a half hands, rarely fifteen, but they have great 
strength and courage for their size. Their most remarkable power is 
manifested in an ability to perform long and arduous marches upon the 
smallest possible allowance of food and water. In consequence of such 
labor they are lean, unsightly, and therefore disappointing to travelers who 
rarely see them at their best in the freedom of spring pastures, where they 
are sleek, and indeed beautiful. The Arab has but two paces, a quick and 
easy walk, averaging four or five miles an hour, *and a half-running canter. 
They are fed on camel's milk, dates when they can be had, and sometimes 
flesh. They are rapidly deteriorating. They are shod with a circular shoe 
which covers the bottom of the foot except a small hole, and which is 
fastened on with six nails. [Nineveh and Babylon.] 

The Varied. — This class is the product of the union of the two pre- 
viously mentioned, or may be produced as a freak without regard to breed- 
ing at all. The laws of breeding have a wide field of operation when 
these opposite forces combine. The modern varieties of the horse seem in 
most all cases to trace their origin to this system of violent crossing. Even 
the French draught horse, the mighty Percheron, is stoutly claimed to be 
a descendant of the Arab; but it is plain that its stocky shape and heavy 
head, neck and mane never came from that source ; so that it is probable he 
has the elements of both, and it is not beyond the range of probability that 
these were the prime elements, resulting in the first instances as a freak 
of nature, which cultivation and selection have at last succeeded in reduc- 
ing to a standard breed. It has been claimed that the Clyde draught 
horse originated from the Shetland pony; yet we see evidence of eastern 
blood in the white markings noticeable in this breed of horses. The 
English race horse is another instance, although he leans very much more 
to the Arab; still evidence of a northern character may be seen in his 
stouter, more arched back, and general bulk of bone and muscle. We 
could thus analyze others, but this brief statement will suffice. 

The Common or Domestic. — The last classification shows the gradual 
diffusion of all the elements until they constitute an animal furnishing all 
the requisites of the horse in general and none in particular, much as we 
oftenest see him in every-day life and in daily use, ready to gallop across 
the country under the saddle, to drive in the light buggy, useful for the plow, 
the team, or the cart, for every one in fact, and for every purpose. It 
would evidently be impracticable to give an analysis of this group. It is 
only in comparatively few instances that two individual animals have even 
the same blood. 



506 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

THE THOROUGHBRED HORSE. 

The blooded horse of the present age is best known as a type in the 
English race horse. The founding of the stud-book has led to the forma- 
tion of a race that in perpetuity of quality is not inferior to the Arab, and 
in other respects superior. In delicacy of organism the Arab is still 
the standard representative, although the English horse is sufficiently so to 
lift it above the varied class. The admixture of thoroughbred blood with 
the cold-blooded horses of the north will however produce the same phe- 
nomena as the Arab produces. 

Though the distinctive breeding of horses entitled to a place in the 
stud-book is Arabian, the best and most lasting results are traceable to but 
very few. In fact, three horses have given us the majority of all the recog- 
nized thoroughbreds at this time, and their lines have been handed down 
through celebrated individuals, while all others have been lost to view. 
The three horses of Arabian blood which thus figure so largely in found- 
ing the race were the Darley Arabian (imported from Aleppo), the Byerly- 
Turk, and the Godolphin, supposed to be a Barb or Arab. The lines of 
breeding from these are respectively known as the Darley line, the Herod 
line (Herod being the main branch of the Byerly-Turk descent), and the 
Godolphin line. 

Numerous other Arabians, Barbs, Turks and Spanish horses lent their 
influence in strengthening the race, but in a comparatively subordinate 
degree, and their names are to be found in the more remote crosses of 
tabulated pedigrees, so that this triple division may stand. 

THE DARLEY LINE. 

The celebrated Flying Childers gave prominence to the Darley Arabian 
by virtue of performance, although another son of the Darley and a full 
brother to Flying Childers, called Bartlett's or Bleeding Childers, perpet- 
uates the fame of his sire in the male line to a greater extent. The Darley 
was a light bay, with three white feet and a snip. The principal value of 
his line is its quality of producing game and lasting race horses, the more 
so if they take on the character, color and marks of their famous founder. 

This line is held to be the most valuable of the thoroughbreds. Flying 
Childers, by the Darley, was a bay, with four white feet and a snip, was 
fifteen hands high, and is accounted by some to have been the swiftest 
and best race horse ever known. He is best represented in the male line 
through his sons Blaze and Snip. But the grand current of succession is 
through Darley, Bartlett's Childers, Squirt, Marske, and Eclipse, in the order 
named. Childers' dam was Betty Leeds; Squirt's dam a Snake mare (a 




85. LADY THORN. 



Copyrighted, 1884, by 
The American Book Co. 



(507) 



508 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

half-bred Arabian); Marske's dam, by BLackiegs, by a bay Turk, second 
dam by Bay Bolton, third dam by Foxcub, his dam by Leeds' Arabian; 
Eclipse's dam, Spitella, was by Regulus, by Godolphin, second dam of 
mixed blood through the Bald Galloway. Squirt was a chestnut, Marske 
a brown, and Eclipse a chestnut. 

Eclipse, the principal perpetuator of the Bartlett branch of the Darley 
line, was a.s phenomenal in form as he was as a racer. He was sixteen 
hands high, and much higher over the croup. The hind cannons were very 
long, and the fore cannons very short, and for this peculiarity he was con- 
demned as deformed and unfit for racing purposes and sold, but afterward 
his extraordinary success in vanquishing every competitor with ease, in 
fact distancing a field of the best racers of the day, led to the adoption of 
the Eclipse pattern for race horses. He also had very oblique shoulders, 
high whirl-bones, massive thighs and a deep chest. He was the sire of 
three Derby winners, Young Eclipse (1S17), Saltram (17S3), and Sargeant 
(1784), and one Oaks winner, Annette (1787). His blood in the male line 
is through his sons Pot S os, King Fergus, Jo Andrews and Mercury. 

Pot 8 os' dam was by Sportsman, by Cade, by Godolphin, with back- 
cross of Darley. He had three Derby winners and one Oaks; he also had 
one St. Leger winner, Waxey, whose dam Maria was by Herod, the main 
artery of the Byerly-Turk line, with remote strain of Darley through Blaze, 
by Flying Childers. With this combination of blood Waxey is termed 
the " ace of trumps" of the stud-book. He was sire of Pope, Whalebone, 
Blucher and Whisker, all Derbv winners. Whalebone, the best, had two 
Derbv winners and one Oaks, all bavs. The branches of his familv were 
through his sons Camel, Defense and Sir Hercules. Camel was sire of 
Touchstone and Sir Lancelot, St. Leger winners. Touchstone united 
through his dam fresh strains of the blood of Eclipse, and was sire of Derbv 
and St. Leger winners. His son Surplus won both for the first time in 
forty-eight years. Orlando, a bay with white nose and hind legs, by 
Touchstone, was the most distinguished as a producer, and his best son 
was Tiddington, a horse which measured but sixty-three inches in girth. 
Xewminster, by Orlando, was more successful in the stud. Adventurer, by 
Xewminster, begot Pretender, winner of the Derby in 1S69. Hermit, the 
greatest of English sires, is a son of Xewminster. Sir Hercules was the 
sire of Birdcatcher, sire of the Baron, sire of Stockwell, one of the most 
fashionable of English sires. 

King Fergus, the second of the four great sons of Eclipse, founded two 
branches of his line through his sons H imbletonian and Benningbrough. 
From the former came the Blacklocks, and from the latter Emilius, Priam, 
Plenipotentiary and Muley Moloch, the sire of Alice Hawthorne, dam of 



1 '$,S 




(509) 



510 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Thormanby, a Derby winner (i860) and one of the best of modern sires. 
Benningbrough, a bay, was sire of Orville, also a bay, sire of Octavius, 
Emilius, Margrave, and Muley, sire of Little Wonder and Muley Moloch. 
Emilius, by Orville, begot Priam (imported to the United States), a chest- 
nut, and Plenipotentiary, a chestnut, both colts and Derby winners, though 
neither was very prominent in the stud. Hambletonian, son of King Fer- 
gus, begot Blacklock from an inbred Pot 8 os mare. Blacklock begot Het- 
man PlatofF, Derby winner of 1847, an ^ Voltaire, sire of Charles XII., and 
Voltigeur, Derby and St. Leger winners of 1850. 

Mercury, a chestnut horse, son of Eclipse, dam by Tartar, begot Go- 
hanna, a bay horse, sire of Catton, sire of Derby winner of 1835, anc * our 
own imported Trustee, sire of Fashion and the twenty-mile trotter Trustee. 

The last of the Ecliptic quartette, Jo Andrews, a bay horse by 
Eclipse, perpetuates his line in the male descent through his son Dick An- 
drews, a bay horse, sire of Tramp, also a bay, sire of Lottery, a bay horse, 
sire of Sheet Anchor, sire of Wetherbit, a bay horse, sire of Beadsman, Derby 
winner of 1858. Beadsman was sire of Blue Gown, Derby winner of 
1868, who died at sea on his way to the United States in 1880, and Pero 
Gomez, St. Leger winner and second for Derby of 1869. 

THE GODOLPHIN LINE. 

The so-called Godolphin— Arabian, a brown horse whose history is a 
myth and breeding unknown, but whose qualities are none the less remark- 
able, was the second of the three prime founders. Tne descent of this horse 
in the male line is through Cade, a bay horse, by Godolphin, out of Rox- 
anna, by the Bald Galloway ; Matchem, a bay horse by Cade from a Partner 
mare; Conductor, a bay horse by Matchem from a Snap mare; Snap, by Snip, 
by Flying Childers; Trumpator, by Conductor, was from a mare of a variety 
of strains. From Trumpator descended Paynator and Sorcerer, a black 
horse, sire of Soothsayer, a chestnut horse (St. Leger 181 1 ). Tiresias, a brown 
horse by Soothsayer, won the Derby of 1S19, and Smolensko (Derby 1813) 
was sire of Gulnare (Oaks 1S27) and Jerry, a black horse (St. Leger 
1824). Jerry was sire of Tomboy (sire of Nutwith, St. Leger 1S43) and 
Jericho; Nutwith was the sire of Knight of Kars. Comus, a chestnut horse 
by Sorcerer, begot Reveller, a bay horse (St. Leger 1S19), and Humphrey 
Clinker, a bay horse, sire of Rockingham (St. Leger 1833), and Melbourne, 
the great sire of winners. Melbourne was sire of Sir Tatton Sykes (St. 
Leger 1846); his dam Cymbria was an Oaks winner. Rockingham was 
sire of the dam of the great Sir Archy, the founder, in a great degree, of the 
American race horse. Melbourne was also sire of West Australian, sire of 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. 511 

Australian, the great Kentucky sire of Woodburn farm until his death. 
West Australian won the triple event of Derby, St. Leger and Guineas in 
1S53, the first time it was ever accomplished. Marchioness, by Melbourne, 
won the Oaks of 1855 and Blink Bonny, by Melbourne, Derby and Oaks of 
1857. West Australian's dam was by Touchstone, and was full sister to 
Cotherstone (Derby 1S43). 

THE BYERLY-TURK LINE. 

The Herod line, from the Byerly-Turk, the third of the great primary 
trio, descended through Jigg, by Byerly-Turk; Tartar, by Jigg; and King 
Herod (or Herod), by Tartar. Herod's dam was by Flying Childers. His 
line is further perpetuated by his sons Woodpecker, a chestnut horse, and 
Highflyer. The Woodpecker line is famed for its great speed, and the 
Highflyer line for its great staying quality. Buzzard, by Woodpecker, 
produced from one mare three celebrated horses, namely, Castrel, Selim and 
Rubens. Castrel begot Pantaloon and he begot Ghuzner, an Oaks win- 
ner, Satinet, a St. Leger and Ascot winner, Libel, Sleight-of-Hand and 
Windhound, sire of Thormanby. Sultan, son of Selim, brother to Castrel, 
another and important branch of the Woodpecker line, was sire of Glencoe, 
whose dam was Trampoline, by Tramp, out of Webby Waxey. Glencoe, 
a chestnut horse, was sire of the famous brood-mare Pocahontas, dam of 
the great modern English sire Stockwell. Glencoe was also sire of a great 
number of mares in America whose success on the turf and in the stud is 
unparalleled. Rubens, the third of the trio of own brothers by Buzzard, is 
more distinguished for his daughters. Highflyer, by Herod, was a bay. His 
sons Noble, Sir Peter and Sky Scraper were Derby winners and his 
daughter Violante was an Oaks winner, and he had three St. Leger winners. 
vSir Peter begot Gladiator who begot Walton, sire of the dam of the French 
horse Gladiateur, which was the first foreign-bred horse to win the English 
Derby. Gladiator was sire of Queen Mary, the famous brood-mare, dam 
of Blink Bonny, Bonnie Scotland (sire of Luke Blackburn and Bramble, 
the Tennessee cracks, and a host of other good ones), and also of Bal- 
rownie. Blink Bonny won the Derb}' and Oaks of 1857 and was the dam 
of Blair Athol, a Derby winner and great sire of winners. The dam of 
Caller-On, a Derby winner, was also by Gladiator. 

The foregoing will enable the reader to trace the breeding of most of 
our best strains, determining their line of descent and learning to which of the 
great channels they properly belong. As the most prominent only have 
been chosen to perpetuate the qualities of the race horse, the others are re- 
jected and become obsolete, so that it will be found comparatively easy to 
trace most racehorses and sires to some of the collateral branches. 



512 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

THE AMERICAN RACE HORSE. 

The English thoroughbred began to be imported into America from 
the first. Direct descendants of the leading primary strains were imported 
into the United States, but our blood is based principally upon that of im- 
ported Diomed and his descendants, collaterally replenished by the blood of 
succeeding importations. Diomed, by Florizel, son of Herod (founder of his 
line), was the first winner of the English Derby and the father of American 
race horses. He was a chestnut without white, except a small touch on one 
heel, fifteen and three-fourths hands high, rather dished face, straight hocks 
and springy pasterns; he was started in England fourteen times and won 
eight, and won the Derby in 17S0. He won £8,268 in all and was good at 
all distances. In England he produced many great race horses, including 
Young Giantess, and was imported into Virginia in 1798 in his twenty- 
second year, where he was more popular than any other horse had been 
until Sir Archy eclipsed him. Of his get, Sir Archy, Ball's Florizel and 
Duroc (sire of American Eclipse) were the greatest. He died in 1S08. 
The current of succession was mostly through Sir Archy, although 
Duroc got American Eclipse, whose blood in a pedigree is by some consid- 
ered the touchstone of success. 

Sir Archy by Diomed, foaled in 1S05, stood highest of all horses bred 
in this country, and yielded his owner S70.000. His dam Casti- 
aniri was by Rockingham. Sir Archy was a rich bay, right hind 
pastern white, sixteen hands high, with deep oblique shoulders, full 
girth and short back. He produced winners from mares with all sorts 
of pedigrees, and some from mares with no pedigree at all. He was suc- 
ceeded by his son Timoleon, whose dam was by Saltram (imported), son of 
Eclipse, out of Virago, by Snap, by Flying Childers. Timoleon was foaled 
in 1813. He started fifteen times, won nine, lost two, walked over four, and 
was a great horse in his day. His highest achievement was in producing 
the great race horse Boston, who in turn was the sire of the still greater 
Lexington, without a peer as a native sire. Boston was a chestnut, with a 
stripe and white hind legs, and familiarly known as "Old White Nose.'' He 
had a plain head, with dish-face, short neck, inclined shoulder-blades, a pro- 
digious chest, great length, immensely powerful loins, hocks and thighs, 
short limbs, straight but very springy pasterns, and altogether great sub- 
stance, almost coarse with his prominent ragged hips, rather flat ribs, but 
well-ribbed loins. He died in 1S49 in his seventeenth year. His dam was 
by Bail's Florizel. 

Lexington, by Boston, inherited his greatness in the male line, although 
the granddam of Iroquois is by Boston, thus skipping over the Lexington 



514 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cross. As a producer of race horses Lexington stands at the head of Amer- 
ican sires. His daughters are now proving themselves as good in the stud as 
his sons were on the turf. None of his sons inherit his prepotency to as 
marked a degree, although some of them are quite reputable as sires. It 
was through imported Glencoe mares that Lexington met with most suc- 
cess. Imported Leamington succeeded Lexington in popularity, and through 
his sons has become so generally the leading strain in the popular estimation 
in this countrv that every considerable breeding establishment of race horses 
has a stallion of the strain, or is seeking for one. Bonnie Scotland was very 
popular latterly, and is the foundation of General Harding's choicest breed- 
ing. The present blood of America is constantly being freshened by Eng- 
lish importations which for some physiological reason harmonize with our 
strains to a degree that makes the crosses better than either branch; so it 
seems at least by the way our horses have succeeded in England. 

THE HEAVY DRAUGHT HORSE. 

In speculating on the origin of the heavy breeds of horses it will be re- 
membered that we proposed to discuss the physiological causes of the varia- 
tions of breeds by the union of two such opposite elements as the oriental 
horse and primitive horse of Europe. 

According to the theory that like begets like or the likeness of some 
ancestor, which is the fundamental law of breeding or heredity, it will be 
understood that a slight or marked reversion to some ancestor more or 
less remote, from physical causes which it is impossible to determine, will 
make the produce of these opposite elements, even from the same sire and 
dam, so widely different that one of the offspring may take the character 
wholly of one of the parents, or intensify some quality of an ancestor, or per- 
haps partake of the characteristics of both parents. In fact, the variation may 
be unlimited. If a breed is to be established, something more definite than 
this is required, and we must select an animal that not only has the physical 
traits which we wish to perpetuate but which also has the additional power 
of reproducing himself. That individual instances of this kind have existed 
and do exist admits of no successful dispute. To secure perpetuation, animals 
must be sought for mating which will cross kindly with them, so that their 
character will assimilate without altering those characteristics, except per- 
haps when it is desired to correct some defect. By this process a satisfac- 
tory result will in time be secured, and such animals will with reasonable 
certainty produce their like. Hence, in taking the cases of two animals, the 
one carefully bred, and the other equal as to other particulars but not so 
well bred, a wide difference will be seen in their offspring. One will re- 



THE HORSE- INTRODUCTION. 515 

produce itself and the other will very likely beget something as different as 
one could well imagine. 

Now the Arab horse has a comparatively short thigh-bone, with a long 
hip; the European horse has a long thigh and a short hip; the cannons of 
the Arab are long, while those of the European are short — and a like dif- 
ference is seen in other parts of the skeleton. By breeding a stocky native 
stallion to a fine Arab mare one might get almost anything. The produce 
may take on the long bones of both parents, or the spongy tissue of the one 
and the length and looseness of the other. The extreme vital and nervous 
temperaments may be neutralized in the offspring and the bilious and 
lymphatic temperament predominate, the produce then becoming coarse, 
and gross, and thereby characterized by a tendency to excessive growth. 

This is one of the physiological influences mentioned as productive of 
variations. We may be pardoned for believing, sincerely enough to advance 
the conviction, that such was the foundation of the heavy horses now found 
all over Europe and the United States, which were first known in Flanders, 
and are still called by the general term "Dutch horses." By taking such 
individual horses as were of more than normal size and breeding them by 
judicious crosses with a view to preserving those specimens which are most 
capable of reproducing those qualities of size and power, we now have a 
variety of horses which is quite common. They were first extensively 
known in Flanders, were introduced into England in the time of William 
the Conqueror, and all the famous British breeds are by some attributed to 
those importations. The breeds now known to be thus descended are 
designated as Suffolk Punch, a sorrel breed, Lincolnshire Blacks, Cleveland 
Bays, English Cart-horses and the Clydesdales of Scotland, but all are of 
the same stock as the Norman of France, the Belgian and Hanoverian 
breeds, and also the Danish draught horse from which the Conestoga horse 
of the United States is sprung. These horses have been imported into 
America so largely of late that their form and character have become gen- 
erally known. Bulk of bone and hair are cultivated, as well as breadth and 
compactness of frame. The largest specimens weigh over a ton. 

The famous Norman draught horse of France and the heavy breeds of 
the Netherlands are from the same Flemish stock. These monstrous horses 
have been imported into the United States so largely of late years that their 
characteristics are familiar to nearly every one. The most popular importa- 
tions are the Normans, Clydes, English draught and Cleveland Bavs. The 
Normans tend to gray in color and some of the darkest grays are very beau- 
tiful. The predominance of their iron-gray color is a strong point with the 
Normans. The Clydes are usually bay, sometimes marked with white legs and 
faces. Their bulk of bone is immense, and they are distinguished for the 




(516) 



THE HOUSE INTRODUCTION. 51 7 

shaggy appearance of their legs, the fringe of long hair beginning just under 
the hocks and knees and reaching to the ground, all round the hoof in some 
specimens. The heavy draught horses of England are very bulky, but the 
Clevelands are more rangy and stylish. All the large breeds have heavy 
and wavy manes and tails, thick neck, large head and great round feet. 

THE AMERICAN TROTTING HORSE. 

American progressiveness, the wonder and admiration of the Old World, 
is manifested in many ways, not the least important of which is the rise 
and development of the trotting horse. Trotting began in a humble way, 
and yet one of utility. The ponies of the bakers or butchers were hitched 
to their carts and urged by honest endeavor to reach their patrons in advance 
of similar outfits of equally enterprising rival shopmen. 

Professor Brewer, of Yale College, has brought to light the fact that a 
horse called Yankey trotted a mile in 2 159, believed to have never before 
been excelled in this country, that time having been made in June, 1806, an 
account of the same appearing in the New York Spectator. This was the 
dawn of trotting for a time-record. Professor Brewer also shows why trot- 
ting became popular as a sport. He says: "Under the hostile laws against 
races other means were taken to gratify the instinctive pleasure of seeing 
horses get over the ground swiftly. A race, as then understood, was a con- 
test between two or more horses, to see which could run the fastest, as it 
still is in most countries. Men did not dream of a race being run by one 
of anything. Morever, in those times horse-racing meant horses running / 
so when horse-racing was a crime, punishable by fine and imprisonment, 
the good law-abiding citizen who owned a good trotter, and who instinc- 
tively yearned for the pleasure of seeing a spirited horse in action, would 
not run him, nor race him; he merely trained him and had occasional trials 
of speed in which he could hold his watch and see how long it took his 
horse to trot a given distance, and the timing of trots became common 
long before the system of records was established." 

It was not until the year 1843 that the present standard of speed, 2:30, 
was beaten, when Lady Suffolk trotted in 2 128. This mare afterward 
trotted under saddle in 2:261^ and was hailed the queen of the trotting 
turf. Before this time long distance was more the test, the heats being 
two, three and four miles, the culmination being reached with the great 
performance of Dutchman, ridden by Hiram Woodruff, three miles against 
time in 7:321^, and this was not beaten until Huntress, by Volunteer, did it 
in harness in 1872 in the remarkable time of 7:211^. Dutchman and 
Lady Suffolk had many contests, but Dutchman was too much for the Lady 



51S COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

at these long distances. After she trotted her fast mile, mile heats came 
into vogue, generally best three in five. Lady Suffolk was a gray, by Engi- 
neer 2d, he by Engineer, by Messenger. 

A greater star soon appeared in Flora Temple when she trotted at 
Kalamazoo, in 1859, against Princess and Honest Anse, making 2:19^, the 
first to trot a mile better than 2:20. She there appeared in her exhibition 
exercise with her driver, James D. McMann. Thousands of people were on 
the track, and when the business-like little creature, with her great eyes spark- 
ling in anticipation, made her appearance, submissively followed by the 
celebrated Ethan Allen, great was the demonstration of delight, and when 
the accommodating McMann consented to "give her a brush or two," loud 
and continued applause arose, at which Flora wheeled short around, tossed 
her head, kicked up her heels, and before McMann could gather the lines, 
dashed off at full speed, and soon reappeared with her fine electric stroke, 
her head eagerly extended, and her long mane flying in tangled confusion 
about her neck. Old Ethan was given a few spurts, and the beauty of his 
action could be seen, but he did not attempt to rival the flights of the little 
bay mare. Flora Temple became celebrated by her biography, charminglj' 
written by Mr. George Wilkes, in his Wilkes 1 Spirit of the Ti??ies, which 
first made its appearance at about this time. She was perpetuated in art, 
and the fine picture of her by Maurer, published by Currier & Ives, of New 
York, is considered, by horsemen at least, as a prime work of art. As we 
remember Flora, she was a bay about fourteen and a quarter hands high, with 
black points, roan on the off side, a blotch of white near the crupper, and a 
fashionably docked tail. She had a pacing conformation, stout legs 
and feet, a fine head and neck, and high withers; but her chief character- 
istics were her very large, full, hazel eyes, and her decidedly business-like 
expression and action. 

Flora Temple's harness-record remained the best until August 14, 
1867, when Dexter at Buffalo trotted in 2:171^, having previously trotted 
under saddle in 2:18^. Dexter is a brown gelding, fifteen and a quarter 
hands high, with four white legs and white face, by Rysdyk's Hambletonian, 
out of Clara by American Star, she out of the McKinstry mare, the dam 
of Shark, a fast trotter by Hambletonian. The Star blood was most appar- 
ent in Dexter, for, although very blood-like, he has a pacing-pony mould, 
lower at the croup than at the withers, fine shoulders, deep chest, strong 
loins but light waist, round, drooping quarters of great volume and compact- 
ness, back slightly roached, and strong legs. He trots with unsurpassed 
resolution and energy. Forward he makes some apparent waste of effort, 
but the way he gathers his hind legs, without that extreme tension seen in 
what is called big-gaited horses, gives an idea of nervous locomotion that 




(519) 



520 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

is superb. The writer first saw him to wagon. He rises forward and his 
manner of moving gives the appearance of uprightness like a man walk- 
ing. He was led from his stable onto the course by two attendants, whom 
he fairly dragged along with his quick walk, such was his nervous ambi- 
tion. He was a hard puller and bore heavily on the check. He also had 
that side-to-side motion forward so noticeable in the Star blood. He never 
had the chance to show his best on the turf, for Mr. Robert Bonner pur- 
chased him (for $35,000), and it is well known that he never trots his 
horses for money. We believe, however, that he trotted in 2:14 under 
saddle for Mr. Bonner. His most formidable competitors were Lady Thorn, 
George Wilkes, and Ethan Allen and running mate, these latter defeating 
him by making a record of 2:15. 

Lady Thorn was a large bay, sixteen and a fourth hands high, by 
Mambrino Chief, out of a mare by Gano, son of American Eclipse; back 
of that, pacing and thoroughbred. A first impression of Lady Thorn was 
that of a blood-like animal of great length and angularity. With pro- 
pelling powers of the grandest character, she looked as though she could 
" step over a house." Like Dexter, she was high-strung, but not so sensi- 
tive; she had a nervous habit of digging the air with a fore foot while in 
the stable; her length of limb was very great, but she had a low, 
easy stroke, settling close to the earth, trotting with great resolution. A 
smaller horse would look large alongside. She could do the home-stretch 
with an effect truly marvelous. Although her record is but 2:iS^, she is 
said to have trotted in 2 : 10 in a trial. She was cut short in her career by 
a deplorable accident while being shipped from Rochester to Buffalo 
where she was to trot against Dexter' s time. She fell from the platform 
while entering the car, and permanently injured her hip — and Lady 
Thorn's day was over. Although this great mare had the refined 
quality of a thoroughbred, she was somewhat unsightly. The right eye 
was gone, and this made her push her nose far out, and to one side, while 
one of her ears was pointed forward and the other backward. Beside 
this, she had a sinking of the neck forward of the withers. She was 
more beautiful to go than to look at, although at any time she was an 
impressive mare. 

George Wilkes, a brown horse, one hind pastern white, fifteen hands 
high, by Hambletonian, was the fastest stallion of his day, and considering 
his ability for speed of the fastest quality, and capability of producing speed 
in his descendants, he ranks as the best son of Hambletonian. Many mar- 
velous stories are related of the wonderful nights of speed to which this 
horse attained. When the writer saw him trot it was with Lady Thorn, 
American Girl, George Palmer and Lucy. In that race Wilkes would 



THE HORSE — INTRODUCTION. 521 

reach the three-quarter pole far in advance of the others, Lady Thorn being 
last. Thence home his speed would wane distressingly, but he would rally 
to a good position at the outcome, still in marked contrast to the terrific 
home-rush of Lady Thorn, the winner. He was not so in the early part 
of his career, it is said. His remarkable action has often been alluded to. 
While he trotted low and easy forward, he seemed to drag his hind legs, with- 
out drawing them under as in the case of his half-brother Dexter. He car- 
ried rather a low head. He was high at the croup and preserved some- 
what the Hambletonian model, as distinguished from the pacing angularity. 
The grand trotter Wilson (2:16) bids fair to make one of the first of 
the age. He is the best of the get of George Wilkes. 

George Wilkes' record, 2:22, has been surpassed by only one entire 
son of Hambletonian, Jay Gould, whose dam was by American Star, and 
he need be mentioned only as having the purest and best balanced of trot- 
ting strokes, the poetry of motion. 

Dexter's 2:17^ remained the fastest record until 1871, when Gold- 
smith Maid lowered it one-fourth of a second at Milwaukee in a race with 
Lucy. She steadily decreased this until she trotted a heat in 2:14, which 
she was unable to excel. She was a bay, fifteen and a fourth hands high, 
of a wiry build and blood-like appearance, and wide, rakish hips that show 
the pacing incline. She had a slinging, loose way of moving, and when 
she became the nonpareil, she would intersperse her trotting with a few 
judicious breaks so cleverly taught as to almost escape detection. For 
severe service on the turf she has never been approached. She trotted one 
hundred and twenty-one races and won $364,200. Prominent among her 
competitors were Lucy, Lady Thorn, from whom she could not wrest a heat, 
American Girl, Smuggler, Gloster and Rarus. Lucy was a large bay mare by 
George M. Patchen, with a big lunging stride, fastest heat 2:183^. Lady 
Thorn has been described heretofore. American Girl, a bay mare without 
white, sixteen hands high or nearly (by Amos' CM. Clay, Jr.,) was a large- 
boned, powerful animal that scored 2 :i6y^. Smuggler succeeded in getting 
one or two heats from the Maid, and scored 2:15^, still the fastest stallion 
record. Smuggler is pacing-bred and a pacer himself naturally. His grand 
sire Cadmus was the sire of Pocahontas the pacer, 2:171^ to wagon, the 
fastest on record. Gloster was a bay gelding, seventeen hands high, of the 
rarest promise, though it was cut short by death. Gloster was by Volun- 
teer. He was a grand trotting horse, of fine texture, with the pacing hip, and 
legs of the finest character. While he was moving one could detect a 
slight nod. He jogged peculiarly slowly, but this need not have signified 
any lameness at all, as it is not uncommon among trotters. 

Rarus succeeded in wresting her proud title from Goldsmith Maid, and 



522 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



placed it to his own credit in 2:13^. He was a rangy bay gelding, hind 
ankles white, a star and a snip, sixteen hands high, and a very fine, elastic 
mover, with his long neck well up, .and a graceful precision of stroke 
rarely seen. He is the beau ideal of a gentleman's trotter. Robert Bon- 
ner has him now, so that his turf career was necessarily short. 

Scarcely had Rarus disappeared from the public when St. Julien 
made a record of 2:12, which he afterward improved to 2:ii%\ He is a 




Cq$fr/f 



90. BASHAW (Green's). 



Copyrishted, 1*84, by 
The American Book Co 



bay gelding, white hind ankles and a small star, about fifteen and three- 
fourths hands high, of a rakish pattern and a pair of inclined, branching 
hips and angular leverage, unmistakably pacing-like, but never known to 
strike a pace. Although distinguished for intelligence, his head, according 
to the popular notion, does not suggest such intelligence, it being large and 
marked by a receding skull and Roman nose. In movement he is so power- 
ful and easy as to give the impression that some outside force is propelling 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. 523 

him, there being neither much knee-action nor width of propulsion behind. 
When entering the track, it is amusing to see him scan the grand stand, 
as if estimating the attendance. He is by Volunteer, dam by Harry Clay. 
Unfortunately for St. Julien's prospects, he too soon had a stubborn 
and successful rival in the renowned Maud S, who now has the title of 
queen of the trotting turf. Yet she has it by a slender thread, for her 
kinsman, the black five-year-old Jay Eye See, is shadowing her so closely 
that her wonderful performance pales by comparison, noting the time at 
which she achieved it. Maud S, a chestnut, no white, fifteen and three- 
fourths hands high, is a light-boned, very muscular mare with fine limbs. 
Her action is rather high forward, owing to the use of toe-weights no 
doubt, and she has a peculiar gliding but far-reaching stroke, a folding and 
backward reach of the hind leg, together with a wide-open and lateral out- 
reach that is peculiarly her own, with a spiralescent flexion and extension of 
the limbs. We learned from Mr. Bair, her driver, that she was not a nat- 
ural trotter at first, nor yet was she a true pacer; she had a mixed gait which 
was overcome by the use of toe-weights. " She was high-strung," he said, 
u but susceptible to good treatment and willing to do right, but resented 
compulsory methods and severe treatment." She was by Harold, . dam 
by Pilot, Jr., second dam thoroughbred — think she inclines to the Pilot-type. 
Jay Eye See is a black gelding, hind ankles white, fifteen hands high, 
by Dictator, out of Midnight by Pilot, Jr., second dam Twilight, by Lex- 
ington. The breeding of Maud S and Jay Eye See, being so nearly iden- 
tical, affords material for study; for, leaving out the Hambletonian influence 
which does not appear decided in either of them, Jay Eye See shows 
a Star energy that affixes him somewhat to that strain, with some of 
the Pilot characteristics; otherwise there are peculiarities in common be- 
tween these great horses. The gelding is a more natural trotter than the 
mare, and this would seem to favor the Star blood, a most potent element 
in a trotting pedigree. His dam produced Noontide by Harold, a great 
mare, but not so great by nearly ten seconds as Jay Eye See ; this again speaks 
for the Star cross. On complimenting Bither, his driver, for having made 
such a trotter, he disclaimed all credit for making him, and said: " He 
was a natural trotter from the start and made himself. All the credit due 
me is for not spoiling him." He has not that fine spiral flexion and ex- 
tension of the hind leg that Maud S has, and there is where perhaps she 
would prove the superior if she were not handicapped with toe-weights. 
The Pilots, then, have the finest propelling action, and the Stars the clever 
faculty of getting the fore feet out of the way of the hind ones naturally, 
without mechanical aids, and the writer considers the propelling action 
of Maud S without a parallel among all known trotters. 



524 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ULTIMATE TROTTING SPEED. 

To what rate of speed will the trotter finally attain? Many theories 
have been advanced upon this question. One mathematical professor has 
calculated from a law of progression that, taking the period from the time 
that the trotter became distinctly recognized to the present as the base, and 
the average reduction in speed from that time to the present as the ratio, the 
extreme limit will be about 1:31 to the mile. Absurd as this may seem, 
Mr. Wallace thinks that when horses are bred so that they become as 
natural at the trot as they now are at the run, so that they may be urged 
without fear of breaking, and not be hampered by the restraint of the 
bit or clogged with toe-weights, it may be possible for them to rival the 
runner in both speed and endurance. The Spirit of the Ti?nes says that, 
taking the extreme rate of speed for short distances as a base, with the 
natural improvements that time will bring to forward the continuance of 
that rate, considering also the fact that trotters and pacers have been known 
to go a quarter or even half a mile at a better rate than a mile in two 
minutes, a mile in two minutes or better will be made. The trotting horse 
Frank and his running mate J. O. Nay have a record that way of going 
of 2:083^. John Murphy, their driver, in order to satify himself as to the 
influence the runner actually had in assisting the trotter, harnessed him to 
a sulky, and with full trotting weights up drove him a mile as fast as he 
could run, and he could just make it it 2:01^ ; the first quarter, 31^ sec- 
onds; half, \\oiy 2 \ three-quarters, 1:313^. From this it would seem, the 
conditions being equal, that the trotter is now the equal of the thoroughbred 
runner, though it is claimed that a horse has run a mile to a sulky in 1 152, 
or thereabouts. Those who have seen the pacer Mattie Hunter get away 
from the score will agree that it would take a good runner to head her. 

THE ORIGIN OF THE TROTTER. 

What is the origin of the trotter, and how can he best be cultivated? 
Three distinct methods of producing the trotter are just now under 
discussion among the breeding public. The first is that of breeding a 
trotter with the trotting faculty to others with the same faculty, expecting 
that by this means a trotting breed of horses will in time become as stand- 
ard as the breed of running horses is now. The second is bv the intro- 
duction of thoroughbred blood into our present trotting strains, and thus 
giving them more refinement and speed, as these qualities are transcendent 
in the thoroughbred and Arab, care being necessary not to use so much as 
to destroy the trotting action or steadiness, qualities which the thorough- 




(525) 



526 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

bred and Arab do not possess at the trot. The third theory is that all 
trotting is derived from modifying the pacing gait or faculty, shown by 
some examples only among horses. 

The first theory is the one most desirable to arrive at, but in considering 
its probabilities we see that time will be required to form a breed of 
trotters bv selection of the best examples possessing the qualities of speed, 
steadiness and game-endurance, as well as the power of reliably reproduc- 
ing these characteristics in their progeny. The running horse shows but 
little improvement upon those examples which originated the breed, as 
Eclipse and Flying Childers. Except for the improvement of methods, it 
is doubtful whether out of the great numbers of race horses any could 
be found to have the natural qualities of speed and endurance much, if any, 
superior to those two horses. Running is a natural gait, and, so far as 
history shows, may always have existed as such. Is not it possible to make 
trotting just as natural a gait by carefully eliminating the running tendency? 
How long this may take, and whether the same object might not be accom- 
plished differently, time will determine. 

The second theory, the engrafting process by the union of examples 
already found to possess the trotting faculty with the more quickening im- 
pulse of the thoroughbred, is not reliable. Observation has led us to con- 
clude that neither speed nor endurance of any kind is possible without the 
aid of Arab blood or its equivalent. The difficulty with this method is its 
uncertainty and consequent want of value to the average breeder, although 
individual examples of the highest class may now and then crop out. 

In drawing special attention to the third theory of producing the trot- 
ting quality, the writer will try to first show how the pacers originated, 
according to his idea. That they are a distinct species is impossible, because 
they are fertile with other horses, and therefore belong to the same species. 
If they were a breed caused by circumstances, the outgrowth of a demand 
for that gait by some people in the remote past, and if those pacers now 
found reverted to some such ancestor, we should be able to trace them ; but 
when we attempt to do so, we find that they trace back to two distinct 
breeds in every case where their breeding is known, and we are confronted 
on the one hand by the Arab horse, and on the other bv the native Euro- 
pean horse, neither of which furnishes as many pacing examples as when 
the two are combined. This brings us to the idea previously alluded to, 
namely, that all of our strains have arisen from the union of animals which 
present antagonistic characteristics, mental or physical, or both. Of such 
unions one result was the marked tendency to excessive growth, as found 
in the draught horse. By crossing two opposite temperaments both 
were neutralized and a third temperament was produced. The idea is now 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. 527 

advanced that the pacing gait and habit result from an intermixture of tem- 
peraments, not producing growth, as was the case with the draught horse, 
but the predominance of the physical structure of the one and the mental 
quality of the other, though by what physiological process or law this takes 
place is only guess-work. 

To illustrate our meaning we will take as an example the stout 
and rugged northern horse, of which the French Canadian is a familiar ex- 
ample, disinclined to a gallop or any gait less leisurely than a walk, slow 
and difficult to arouse, activity at any gait an impossibility. On the other 
hand, we know that the Arab or thoroughbred has a nervous energy and a 
constant desire to go, but at a gallop; he can not restrain himself to trot, 
having no more trotting action than a cow, and he knows it and can never 
be taught to trot, but his swiftness at a gallop exceeds that of any other 
quadruped in existence. Now in the amalgamation of these extremes there 
may be produced, if not in the first cross, in some succeeding and more har- 
monizing remove, an animal that has the physical structure, angular frame 
and consequent angular action of his coarser ancestor, with the muscular re- 
finement and nervous temperament of the finer one. He desires to go fast; 
running would for him require great waste of muscular energy and be an 
arduous task at which he would soon tire; he could not effect the graceful 
canter and gallop; he could adopt a compromise of a walk, a square trot and 
a run, and such as would be easiest for him would be likely to be the 
pace, especially in his first steps when a colt at his mother's side; and thus an 
original mental faculty would be developed. 

Without such a faculty in some ancestor the writer believes it 
is not possible to teach a horse to trot fast, for while the ability to trot 
is possessed by most horses, fast trotting can only be derived from a modifi- 
cation of the pacing faculty, and this we believe to be the origin of the "trot- 
ting instinct," so called. This pacing habit once formed, like any other 
oddity, may be so fixed as to be perpetuated several generations without 
the necessity of doubling its strength, and even with doubling and redoub- 
ling may be difficult to preserve. 

A careful observation of Goldsmith Maid led the writer to the firm 
conviction that trotters derived their form and gait from a source other than 
the thoroughbred. In studying her over he concluded then and there that 
she had a pacing form, and suddenly the thought struck him that the key 
to trotting was the pacing faculty modified, an impression of which he 
could never free himself. Under date March 10, 1874, the writer sent the 
following letter to Mr. J. H. Wallace, editor of the Trotting Register: 

"I see In a late number of the 'S fir if that you qualify your Messenger theory of 
trotting instinct by admitting pacers as next to Messenger stock for imparting that in- 



528 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

stinct Nc . . _ September Z wrote you a letter inquiring about Jim Irving 

and your views about his thorc ugh r edigree, and you wrote me that his sire was a 

..nd not a thoroughbred, which you have since proved to your satisfaction. Shortly 
tftc ward I was in Chicago, lock;:;^- at Goldsmith Maid with a view of trying to make 
out her likeness to a thoroughbred, as others had, having in mv mind at the time that 
breeding gave a trotter his -reed; but I failed. I could see no particular resemblance, 
but those hips, thighs and stifles set my mind inquiring what particular breed they be- 
longed to. for they looked decidedly familiar. At last I was persuaded and exclaimed 
that Goldsmith Maid was a pacer in form, consequently in breeding, although I was 
aware that there was no known pacing blood in her. So firmly was I convinced that 
pacing blood gave the trotter his speed that I then referred to all the known instances 
from Highland Maid down to the pacing sires and trotters of the present day. 1 wrote 
you a long letter bat destroyed it, not willing to trouble you before I had investigated 
further, a-d not wishing to disturb the Messenger theory on which you had already 
en one book and were compiling another. I did investigate and found every circum- 
stance strengthened the proposition that the pacing element in a trotter gives him speed. 
* * * The question whether the world will be benefited by a knowledge of the 
fact that our grand trotters, our beautiful fas: flyers, are after all descended from an 
insignificant scrubby ponv, or worse, the long-despised pacer, will be answered by asking 
whether the world will be set right, or go on blindly breeding to horses and from mares 
that have no more trot than a Newfoundland dog, simply because zhey are Hambletonians, 
Marnbrinos. or thoroughbrri. 

In reply, Mr. Wallace wrote as folio ws, from AL-erhei-y, Perm., under 
date March 16, 1S74: 

••Your very interesting letter is before me, and it is row that I ... e not 

time to consider it in detail. * * * It is a truth - firm as the everlasting 
hills that English Mambrino and his son Messenger did found a race of trotters, without 
any known assistance. It is a truth also, just as well established, that fast trotters have 
come from pacing ancestors. All the trolling speed of this country comes from one or 
the other of these sources, except possibly from the dam of Vermont Black Hawk. 
ever speed the Morgan possesses and imparts comes from the Canadian. I propose to 
make the Canadian a subject of careful investigation the very e and opportunity 

that I have. He > worthy of great consideration in the problem, but he cannot displace 
Messenger as a fountain of trotting blood. Why net gi re jar ideas to the public 
through the Spirit f I assure you they are valuable." 

Since that time Mr. Wallace endeavors tc show that his ideal trotting 
founder, Messenger, derived his faculty from the old English pacing breed. 

TROTTING BREEDS, ETC. 

The foundation is already laid for a breed of trotters : the Hambletonians 
being noted for general make-up, for substance and qu: veil as for 

positive trotting capacity; the Marnbrinos for size and lasting endurance; 
the Clays for tenacity of trotting action; the Black Hawk and other Mor- 
gans for their general utility; and other strains for remote crosses. Other 




(529) 



530 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

families will no doubt come forward with much more prominence for the 
furtherance of the trotting habit and the establishing of a breed of trotters. 
Therefore it must be plain that, according to the law that like begets like, 
if these examples thus show the tendency to either trot or pace, in time a 
breed of trotters must result, if such animals with this tendency are selected 
for breeding purposes as have the further capacity to reproduce numbers as 
well as individual examples. This brings us to the question, What has 
been done toward establishing a breed of trotters? 

In the early history of trotting in this country it was found that the 
blood of imported Messenger was frequently met with in the horses, so 
that it became very popular, and its best use has culminated in the descend- 
ants of his son Mambrino through two channels, the main one of which 
was through his son Abdallah, and through Abdallah's son Rysdyk's 
Hambletonian. The other Mambrino branch came down through his 
grandson Mambrino Chief. 

The horse Hambletonian became popular in the stud because of the 
Messenger blood he inherited, and because he was a son of Abdallah, the 
popular trotting sire of his day. Then his son George Wilkes, by virtue 
of his performances, gave him great notoriety, quickly followed by Dexter 
and others, until now he has thirty-six representatives in the 2 130 list. 
Hambletonian heads the list as the foremost prepotent element in the for- 
mation of a breed. A great deal of writing and tabulation of statistics has 
been advanced to show his excellences, but that the arguments may not be 
one-sided, the following comparison is presented: The stud-books of Ham- 
bletonian -show that he begot over thirteen hundred foals, thirty-six of which 
trotted in 2 :3c Woodford Mambrino begot eighty-nine foals, ten of which 
have trotted in 2 :3c This shows about three per cent, for Hambletonian 
and ten per cent, for Woodford Mambrino. This fact is attracting atten- 
tion, and the stud-books of other horses are to be investigated. 

To what extent a sire will attain to the perpetuating capacity is a ques- 
tion which deserves as much consideration as the rate of speed. That 
Hambletonian's record will be far surpassed there can be no reasonable 
doubt. Other horses with like chances might perhaps have done as well 
or better, but this strain has in some w T ay been forwarded, and has evinced 
a harmonizing and neutrally composing element which will be advanta- 
geous in a lasting degree. Next to George Wilkes, Volunteer is the most 
prepotent of Hambletonian's sons, with twenty-three 2 130 performers, five 
of which have marked below 2:20, and one 2:111^. Dictator, brother to 
Dexter, has three trotters in 2:17 or better, and one in 2:10^. 

Harold has the fastest trotter of all the sons of Hambletonian, or any 
other horse, in the performance of Maud S in 2:103^, though a great 



THE HORSE — INTRODUCTION. 531 

many other sons have produced numbers of 2 130 horses. Beside this 
speed-production, Hambletonian has begotten horses with his capacity of 
reproducing producers, the most prominent of which is Alexander's Abdallah, 
who produced the trotter Goldsmith Maid (2:14), and the great producing 
stallion Almont, who has produced twenty-three trotters and one pacer 
with 2:30 records or better, three of which have beaten 2:20, beside 
several stallions that have produced 2 130 performers. Among the other 
sons of Alexander's Abdallah that have produced 2:30 trotters are Jim 
Monroe, Belmont, Major Edsal, Thornedale, Wood's Hambletonian, and 
Abdallah Pilot. Many grandsons of Alexander's Abdallah have also 
produced well. 

The other Messenger branch, through Mambrino Chief, is scarcely 
less important. While not giving us as many trotters or as great speed, 
for other purposes perhaps just as desirable, it has done much to preserve 
the trotting form. Its representatives incline to size and style, as well as 
to constitutional vigor, vitality and lasting power. Their founder 
was a large, coarse, heavy-headed, but strong and resolute horse, with a 
very powerful, sweeping gait. He has six 2 130 performers to his 
credit. His son Mambrino Patchen, brother to Lady Thorn, has thirteen ; 
Woodford Mambrino, another son, has ten; of his other sons, Clark Chief 
has eight, Mambrino Pilot six (one in 2:173^), Ericsson five, Manbrunello 
two, Fisk's Mambrino Chief four, Idol three, Ashland Chief two. His 
grandsons bid fair to produce equally well. This in the main brings 
down Messenger. 

If we classify pacers under the head of distinct individual founders, 
one pacing stallion would still take rank in direct prepotency, although 
his powers of perpetuation have gone no farther than the first generation 
to any extent. We refer to Blue Bull, and it is a question whether he 
does not take equal rank with Hambletonian in this respect, and some 
claim that he even surpasses the latter. He has thirty-four trotters to his 
credit in the 2:30 list (another being doubtful), and he has one pacer, so that 
in this matter he would equal Hambletonian's thirty-six, if the pacer and 
doubtful trotter are reckoned. Besides, it is very certain that he will surpass 
him in the future. If the present standard should be cut down to 2:25, each 
would have fourteen; if it were reduced to 2:20, Hambletonian would have 
two and Blue Bull one, both being then surpassed by a number of others. 
(Since the foregoing was written two other trotters of the 2 130 class have 
been added to Blue Bull's record). 

The next greatest of the pacing families are the Pilots, the descend- 
ants of old Pacing Pilot, through his sons Pilot, Jr., Tom Crowder, and a 
few others of less note. Pilot, Jr. has seven or eight trotters in the 2 130 



532 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

list; of his sons, Bayard has three, Tattler two, Roscoe one, Pilot Temple 
one, Pilot Duroc one. Yet it has been through the female lines that his 
blood has gained its greatest celebrity, one of his mares producing a 2:101/ 
trotter and another a 2:103/ performer. Many other daughters of 
Pilot, Jr. have produced wonderfully well, and no mares are more 
eagerly sought than his. The Crowder branch of the Pilot stock is most 
favorably known through Tom Wonder, sire of four 2 130 trotters, and 
there are many other scattering examples of the Pilots. 

The Hiatogas were great speed-producers, both pacers and trotters. 
Scott's Hiatoga was the sire of six 2 130 pacers and five 2 130 trotters. The 
Cadmus family were descendants of Iron's Cadmus who was the sire of 
Pocahontas (pacer, 2:17^ to wagon), and grand sire of Smuggler (2:151/, 
the fastest trotting record bv a stallion). Pocahontas was the dam of Tom 
Rolf, sire of Sleepy Tom (pacer, 2:12^), Gem (pacer, 2.135/), Lady Rolf 
(trotter, 2:221/), Tom Hendricks (trotter, 2:25), and Young Rolf, a new- 
comer, is now also added to his 2 130 list. Tom Rolf was also the sire of 
Pocahontas Boy, sire of Buffalo Girl (pacer, 2:12^), the fast pacer Gurgle, 
and about a half-dozen of 2 ^o pacers and trotters. Bonner's Pocahontas 
(2 1265/) was a daughter of Old Pocahontas, and the fast young stallion Rev- 
enue, by Smuggler, is descended through his dam from old Pocahontas. 

The Davy Crocketts have a large showing, though scattering, the 
best results being reached through Legal Tender, sire of Red Cloud (2:18), 
and several other 2 ^0 pacers and trotters. Then there are the Tom Hals, 
Redbucks, Corbeaus, with many others, and when the fact is appreciated 
that these horses were mostly kept in the back ground, with no opportuni- 
ties and a nominal service fee, not held for the purpose of breeding trotters, 
and when we further consider their limited produce, we may reasonably sup- 
pose that, with such chances as are now afforded stallions, much greater 
celebrity might have been attained. 

Looking at the unhampered results of the produce of pacing-bred 
mares, we see a legion of trotters that spring from this source which, when 
gathered together, are a convincing proof that the pacers are the Cinder- 
ellas of the trotting world, and their proud sisters, if their breeding were 
studied and the pages of their history were fully open, would after all be 
seen to be of the same plebeian origin. 

Whence came the pacing tendency in the Hambletonians? has been 
asked. Whence, indeed? There are many gaps to fill in the Ham- 
bletonian pedigree. Perhaps it is in these. Look for it in the dam of 
Abdallah, or even in the dam of Hambletonian himself. You do not know 
that it is in them, nor do you know that it is not there, though vou do know 
that, if they have it, they must have received it from some source. 




(533) 



534 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

In reviewing the claims of the pacer as a progenitor of trotters, we see 
that the fastest trotter in the world, Maud S (2:101^), is a converted pacer, 
for she paced and racked. The fastest trotting stallion, Smuggler (2:151^), 
was originally a pacer. The greatest progenitor of trotters (if we accord 
to Blue Bull this distinction) was a pacer and the most of his best trotters 
were converted pacers. The fastest trotter under saddle, Great Eastern, 
was once a pacer. Trinket (2 114) was converted to the trotting faith, though 
a very fast pacer, and a majority of the best trotters pace or amble more or 
less, which it is well known the best thoroughbreds never do. Moreover, 
nearly all of the best trotters have a pacing conformation. 

The next family of trotters is that of the Bashaw blood, generally 
understood to have originated with imported Bashaw, an Arabian or Barb 
horse. It is sub-divided thus: (1) the Bashaw proper; (2) the Clay, through 
the descendants of Henry Clay, the son of Andrew Jackson, son of Young 
Bashaw, by imported Bashaw 5(3) the Patchen, through the descendants of 
George M. Patchen, son of Cassius M. Clay, by Henry Clay. To the 
descendants of the Bashaw proper belong Long Island Black Hawk and 
his descendants, chiefly represented by his grandson Green's Bashaw, who 
has eleven 2 130 performers to his credit. Long Island Black Hawk was 
by Andrew Jackson. The Clays are the descendants of Henry Clay, 
principally through his son Cassius M. Clay and his descendants (not 
including the son of the latter, George M. Patchen, and his descendants, 
which constitute the Patchen branch). Two of Cassius M. Clay's sons 
produced each four 2:30 trotters, and another three; another produced 
American Girl (2:16^), the fastest representative of this branch. The 
Clay blood is further diffused through their sons and is considered very 
valuable in both the male and female lines, the dam of St. Julien, by 
Harry Clay, son of Neaves' Cassius M. Clay, Jr., being the choicest 
specimen in the female line. Other descendants have more or less distin- 
guished themselves, as the dams of Hattie Woodard (2:15^), George 
Wilkes and others. Among the much-sought Clay mares those of Harry 
Clay have heretofore been the favorites. George M. Patchen, sire of 
Lucy (2:18^), is best represented in the male line by Godfrey's Patchen, 
sire of seven 2:30 performers, one being Hopeful with 2:14^ to his 
credit, with the best wagon time, 2:16. 

The next family to be noticed will be the Morgans with their innumer- 
able branches, chiefly known through Vermont Black Hawk, and he mainly 
through two channels, Ethan Allen and General Knox, the first a son and 
the second a great-grandson. Ethan Allen produced seven 2 130 trotters, his 
sons Daniel Lambert twenty-six, Woodard's Ethan Allen six, Bacon's Ethan 
Allen three, Honest Allen two. Many other sons have produced well, as 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. 585 

also the sons of Daniel Lambert. General Knox produced eleven and his son 
Gilbreth Knox three 2 130 performers, and others of his sons have produced 
well. Golddust, a Morgan, produced five 2 130 trotters. 

The blood of American Star, now so fashionable, is to be met with 
almost wholly in the descendants of his daughters, about thirty of which 
have produced 2 :30 trotters, many of them two each, and Clara, the dam 
of Dexter, produced three, being also the dam of Dictator, the premier sire. 
All of these were by Rysdyk's Hambletonian, and it was to Clara that the 
Hambletonian Star cross owed its first impetus. Widow Machree, a 
daughter of Star, and one or two others were the only trotters he can claim 
for the 2:30 list, but the Widow produced Aberdeen, who has more 2:30 
performers to his credit than any other stallion of this cross — nine trotters 
and one pacer, the fastest of which is Hattie Woodward (2:15^). Be- 
side these, the others of this cross who have produced well are Jay Gould, 
Enfield, Masterlode, Independent, Startle and Walkill Chief; and some of 
the sons of American Star are represented by one, two or three each. The 
breeding of American Star is not certainly known, but as he and his de- 
scendants possessed many physical characteristics in common with the Pilots 
and Blue Bulls, it is most probably the case that the pacing element was 
the dominant feature of his ancestry, well ground in with thoroughbred, 
especially if his daughter, the gray mare Peerless, owned by Robert Bon- 
ner, may be taken as a model. 

There are many other valuable strains of trotting blood, mostly of 
Canadian origin, among which are the descendants of Champion, Royal 
George, Columbus, St. Lawrence, and many others that will no doubt in 
the future rank high. Some individual trotting sires have other merits as 
well as speed to recommend them to favor. Especially is this the case in 
regard to size, style and showy appearance. The most noted are Daniel 
Lambert, Mambrino King, Don Cossack, King Rene, and Almont Lightning. 

COLT TROTTING. 

The educating of the trotting horse in his infancy has attracted much 
attention of late years, and is very important to breeders, for it enables 
them to dispose of their stock much more quickly than if they were obliged 
to wait for the animal to mature. The first notable colt performance was 
that of Ethan Allen on May 10, 1853. He gained a record of 2 136 when four 
years old. Magna Charta, at four years, on October 14, 1S59, scored 2 133 ^ . 
Erricsson, in i860, lowered the record to 2:301^ ; Bruno, in 1865, to 2:30; 
Galatea, m 1877, to 2:251^ ; Elaine, in 1878, to 2:241^. Trinket was the 
first to get below 2 120, making 2:19^. Jay Eye See lowered the same 




IV CD 



THE HORSE INTRODUCTION. 537 

three-fourths of a second, and Bonita now holds the scepter with 2:18^. 

As a three-year-old, Cora, in i860, made 2:37^; Blackwood, in 1S69, 
2:31; Lady Stout, in 1874, 2:29; Phil Thompson, in 1881,2:21; and Hinda 
Rose, in 1883, obtained the fastest heat on record, 2:191^. 

At two years, Julia Ann Johnson scored 2:451^ in 1871. The follow- 
ing year Doble lowered this record to 2 140^ ; in 1877, So-So made 2 :^S]4 ; 
in 1880, Fred Crocker made 2:251^; in 1881, Wild Flower made the re- 
markable time of 2:21, and Sweetheart 2:231^. 

The great yearling performance of Hinda Rose, 2:365^, stands alone 
and unapproached, and is a remarkable record for that age. 

PACING. 

Nothing like the attention has been devoted to the pacer that the 
trotter has received, so that his history and performances are obscure. 
There have no doubt been many fast pacing records that are now lost 
through neglect. In old times such horses as Roanoke, Oneida Chief and 
Hero were accounted on a par with the trotters of the day ; but when the 
wonderful mare Pocahontas distanced Hero in 2:171^, and drew a wagon, 
and that too with an overweight driver, with the greatest ease, it was found 
that the trotters of the day were not up to that record. Since then the 
record has been gradually lowered, till now 2:10 has been reached by the 
bay gelding Johnston, and this also eclipses the trotting record which for a 
time held the supremacy. It is the popular belief that the star of the 
pacer is in the ascendant, but it is very doubtful whether pacing can ever 
compare with trotting, especially when we can breed trotters from trotters 
with certainty, so that the trot will be as natural as the pace now is. 
Already we see so many examples of great performers bred directly from 
trotting stock that we may hope in the near future to rely on the actual 
establishment of a breed of trotting horses, and a pure-bred trotter will be 
much more desirable than an animal produced by the hap-hazard method of 
hybridizing from which most of our great trotters have sprung. 

[At Chicago, on July 10, 1884, when the above was standing in type, 
the pacer Westmont, a chestnut gelding, by Almont, with his running mate 
Firebrand, a thoroughbred by Fireball, made the marvelous record of 
2:01^ on an exhibition turn — first quarter, 30^ seconds; half, 1:00; three- 
quarters, 1 :3c In spite of a break at the finish, he thus did the fastest 
mile ever made in harness, and handsomely led all former pacers and 
trotters. Frank and mate had astonished horsemen in the fall of 1883 D y 
a score of 2:08^. — Editor.] 




SKELETON OF THE HORSE. 



Cranium. 
Lower jaw. 
Cervical vertebras. 

4. Dorsal vertebra?. 

5. Lumbar vertebrae. 

6. Sacrum. 

7. Coccygeal vertebrae. 
Sternum. 

9. True ribs. 

10. Cartilages of true ribs. 

11. False ribs. 

12. Cartilages of false ribs 



Scapula. 

Humerus. 

Radius. 

Elbow. 

Os Pisiforme. 
19,) 

21, vCarpal bones. 
23- ) 

Large metacarpal bone. 

Outer small metacarpal bone. 

Inner small metacarpal bone. 
2S. Sesamoid bones. 

47- 



Inner small metatarsal bone. 

538 



29. Os suffraginis. 

30. Crown bone. 

31. Hoof. 

32. Wing- of pedal bone. 

33> 34» 35> 3<5- Os Innominatum. 
37. Femur. 
3S. Tibia. 

39. Os Calcis. 

40. Astralagus. 

41. 42, 43, 44! Tarsal bones. 

45. La rare metatarsal bone. 

46. Outer small metatarsal bone. 




CHAPTER I. 
SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 

:HATEVER may be one's opinion upon the great question of 
evolution, even a little observation will demonstrate to every one 
that the Creator of the universe has maintained a marvelous 
unity of design and organism throughout the various orders of 
animal life. While man is " fearfully and wonderfully made," the same 
wonder is aroused when we see that the several animals, particularly of the 
higher kinds, have substantially the same physiological organs and func- 
tions. He who has made a study of the human body has the material facts 
about the horse, ox and other domestic animals. It would evidently 
involve tiresome and unnecessary repetitions to give the general anatomy 
and physiology of these animals after the treatise which we have set forth 
on those subjects as related to man. The reader will find about all the 
information on these topics that he will have occasion to apply in the domes- 
tic treatment of his animals if he will refer to the introductory pages of the 
appropriate chapters in Part I. To be sure, the functions vary not a little 
and a few differences in organism exist, but these will be mentioned in the 
course of the following pages as the treatment will most properly demand. 
It is obvious, too, that after the horse has been fully treated, very much 
will have been said that is applicable to other animals, the cow, sheep, 
hog and dog in particular. Hence, the part of this book which is devoted 
to the Horse will not only give all needful information upon the compara- 
tively few disorders of the Ass and Mule, but will be frequently referred to 
in the parts devoted to other animals. 

In giving the Signs of Health and Disease of the Horse, we ask the 
reader to understand that he has before him very much that applies to other 
animals, and can gain the required facts by substituting the name of the one 
which he is studying in the context. 

Signs of Health. — The following are general signs of health: 
Smooth and bright coat, loose skin, medium warmth of all the parts, clear 

539 



540 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and bright eye?, natural but not excessive appetite which is not affected by 
ordinary work, regular and easy passages from the bowels and bladder, 
regular respiration from eight to ten times a minute, uniform heart-beats 
about forty-five per minute and a medium load of fat. If any of these are 
materially disturbed some derangement exists, and more or less disease is 
present if such disturbance is more than fitful. 

Signs of Disease. — The family physician is helpless unless he knows 
the symptoms of his patient, but these he can learn with more ease bv ask- 
ing questions than one can determine the condition of a dumb animal. He 
who would treat the latter must wholly depend upon his observation. 
Indeed, the owner of such an animal can scarcely be deemed less than cruel 
if he is so careless as not to extend to it a reasonable attention to ascertain 
whether it is in health. Any one can be reasonablv certain whether his 
domestic animals are sick or well if he but be observing. 

Prominent signs of disorder are these: Failure to notice a sound or the 
approach of another animal or a person, heedless standing, hanging head, 
general dullness, with eves and ears perfectlv still or drooping. Such signs 
are to be seen whether the animal is tired, old, abused, sleepy or sick. If 
the skin is pimply, or cold and damp, or unusually hot, dry and harsh, or 
sticks closely to the flesh and bones; if the hair stands on end and is not 
bright and smooth; if the nose, ears and feet are unduly cold in moderate 
weather; if the animal paws his bedding, or shows an unusual disposition 
to lie down, or looks around at his sides, switches his tail in the absence of 
flies, or uneasily -rands on different feet successively, then pain is most likely 
present, and certainly the animal is not well. A more detailed notice of 
some signs is now in order. 

The Pulse. — The pulse is the stroke felt at a point where an arterv 
comes near the surface. In man, it is more commonly sought out on the 
wrist; in the domestic animals it is more easiiv found at the edge of the 
jaw. Passing the finger from the angle of the jaw along the lower edge, 
we will notice a slight depression or notch, and bv pressing the finger into 
this we feel the pulsations of the artery. Whereas in man in adult life the 
heart beats, or the pulse, will be from 65 to 72, and may be increased a half 
or even doubled by excitement, those of the horse are much less, ranging 
about as follows : At birth, 100 to 120; at two weeks of age, So to 96; 
three months, 6S to 76; six months, 64 to 72; one year, 48 to 56; two 
years, 40 to 4S ; four years, 38 to 4S. The average after three years is 
about 45. These figures may be considered the standard of a healthv 
pulse, some allowance being made for variations of temperature. 

In health the pulse is regular, full, round and distinct, and when 
increased bv excitement it retains the same relative characteristics. It is 



THE HORSE SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 541 

well to frequently examine the healthy pulse that the finger may become 
accustomed to it. In doing this we should note not only its rate, but the 
characteristics as well, with the conditions surrounding the animal, for the 
characteristics and rate materially depend upon these conditions. In disease 
there are many variations, and a few of the most common will be given. 

When the pulse is^ quick and strong, from 60 to 120 beats per minute, 
and the artery feels full and not easily compressed, it is an indication of 
fever or some inflammatory disease. 

When it is quick and small, the artery appearing not full, and the pul- 
sations are feeble, it indicates a state of depression or debility, such as is 
found in low, exhausting diseases, as typhoid pneumonia in the latter 
stage. 

When the circulation through the brain is obstructed, the pulse is full 
and strong but slow, sometimes the beats being one-third below the normal 
standard. When this condition exists and the pulse is feeble, it indicates 
apoplexy or other serious bfain disturbances, as paralysis for example. 

Sometimes the pulse is intermittent, losing a beat occasionally; it may 
be the result of some functional disorder of the heart, or permanent and 
point to some organic diseases of this organ. 

The compressible pulse is full and plump, a very light pressure will 
detect the pulsation, and if the pressure increase the pulsation ceases; this 
indicates a weak circulation and is usually the result of congestion. 

The Nervous System. — If any of the following symptoms are seen, 
affections of the nervous system are indicated, and such diseases should be 
studied under their special divisions: — Defective hearing or sight, or com- 
plete loss of the same, eyes changed in color, general stupidity, loss of use 
in some part of the body, tremors, twitching, convulsive motions, stiffness, 
marks of dizziness, perhaps with falls, repeated turnings around, frights 
without cause, enlarged or injured head. If these symptoms are noticed, 
further examination should be made to ascertain especially whether the 
pulse is right, as well as the temperature of the body and the breathing. 
Of course the tongue, mouth and urine should be examined. 

The Digestive System. — Evidences of disorder in the digestive sys- 
tem are these: — The tongue and mouth may be dry, hot, furred or slimy, 
or of a bad odor, or may show eruptions or sores ; the appetite may fail, or 
be unnatural, as shown by eating poor instead of good food, and licking 
iron, dirt or stones; the thirst may be unusually great; the belly swollen, 
giving a hollow sound when struck; the dung may be hard, dry, light or 
dark-colored, difficult or infrequent in passage, or too soft and thin, passing 
too frequently or involuntarily, or it may be discharged with apparent fear, 
may smell disagreeably, or be bloody; the teeth may be decayed or worn 



542 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

short, and the animal, even when eating good food, may suddenly stop eat- 
ing and soon commence (in such cases an examination should be made to 
ascertain if there are not sharp edges on the teeth to be filed down, or 
whether there is not a thorn or other foreign matter to be removed). 

Breathing. — It being well known that any disorder in a horse's 
breathing depreciates his value very much, this subject should be well 
studied. Breathing consists of two parts — the taking in and the expelling 
of air, marked by the swelling and falling in of the flanks, which should 
be even and barely perceptible. Symptoms of disordered breathing are a 
cold nose (in ordinary circumstances) or nostrils unusually red, dry and hot, 
or giving out a discharge with or without bad odor; raw or ulcerated nos- 
trils, the breathing though being perhaps interrupted by swelling, mucus, 
or warty growths in them; dry, short, or spasmodic coughs; sneezing; 
coughs, with phlegm-discharges, and short, obstructed, or painful breath- 
ing. Breathing is most rapid in young animals. It becomes more rapid 
by overloading the stomach and by other causes which impede the action of 
the lungs. Any excitement, as a fright or exercise, will have a like effect. 
By a test on one horse which normally breathed ten times to the minute, 
the number was nearly trebled after a walk of a few hundred yards; after 
a trot of five minutes, the respirations exceeded fifty, resuming their natural 
conditions after three minutes of rest; by a gallop of five minutes the 
number was extended to sixty-five for one minute. 

A quick, short respiration denotes pain, most probably in the intestines, 
and a catching and interrupted respiration indicates pleurisy. 

The respiration in which the heaving of the flanks is seen at a dis- 
tance is a sign of inflammation either in or about the lungs. 

The respiration in which the rising of the flanks is suddenly cut short, 
and the expulsion of the air performed by two efforts successively of the 
muscles of the belly, indicates broken wind; but may also be seen in in- 
fluenza in horses having heart-disease. ' 

Deep breathing indicates water in the chest. 

Retarded respiration usually attends diseases of the brain. 

The breathing of most animals in health is through the nostrils, with 
the mouth shut, is noiseless and without any manifestation except that of 
the slow, prolonged heaving of the chest in the larger animals, and the 
still, even, and regular though quicker movements of the chest in the 
smaller ones. The latter can breathe either through the nostrils or the 
mouth, but the horse is prevented by the formation of the soft palate from 
inhaling by the mouth; he therefore has extended nostrils to admit a large 
supply of air. In disease the nostrils may be contracted or widely opened 
at each inspiration; the breathing may be too quick, short, labored, irregu- 



THE HORSE SIGNS OF HEALTH AND DISEASE. 543 

lar, jerky, superficial, wheezing, or grunting, as if each breath caused pain, 
one side of the chest may fill out more than the other; the pressure of the 
hand on the chest may cause the animal to flinch or groan. Beside the 
cough, which may be barking, croupy, whistling, or dry and hard, the 
sounds which are heard within the chest in health, when one applies the 
ear to it, may be altered greatly in character, as also may the sound heard 
when the chest is smartly struck. These various sounds enable an experi- 
enced person to detect the character of the mischief within the chest. 

Urinary and Generative System. — The urine and general functions 
of the urinary and generative organs are deemed of great importance in 
treating man, and are of equal relative value in animals. We give the 
most important deviations from the healthy condition of these organs, and 
the best methods of detecting the same. 

In the female there may be discharges from the womb or from the 
vagina; the sides of the exterior opening may be swollen and red; the 
udder may be swollen, tender, hard, or inflamed; the teats may be cracked. 

In the male the penis may be inflamed or ulcerated, the foreskin (the 
end of the sheath or covering which incloses the penis) may have warty 
or other growths on or within it. 

The urine in either sex may indicate derangement by being either 
scanty; seldom passed ; thick; whitish; darker than usual; strong-smelling; 
bloody; discharged in too large quantities; paler than usual; passed in 
small quantities, accompanied with straining, or in spurts with pain. 

All that is passed in twenty-four hours should if possible be col- 
lected and measured, and an observation should be made as to whether more 
or less than the usual quantity is passed. A healthy horse will discharge 
from five and a half to seven and a half gallons in the time named. A part 
of the amount passed during different portions of the day should be tested 
as to its specific gravity. This test may be made as directed under the topic 
on " The Urine " in Chapter II of Part I. Placing water at 1000, the 
normal urine of the healthy horse will show a specific gravity of 1015. 

Sometimes the urine contains albumen. This element is one of the 
constituents of the blood, and its presence in the urine is indicative of a 
serious disorder of the kidneys, and its early discovery is of great impor- 
tance. To detect its presence follow the direction given on page 216. 

Occasionally, though not often, sugar is found in the urine of animals; 
this also indicates serious disease. It is known as diabetes, and when pres- 
ent the urine is passed in large quantities and has a clear, syrupy appear- 
ance and high specific gravity, reaching in some cases as high as 1030. 
When urine preserves this high specific gravity a test for sugar should be 
made, as directed on page 218. 



CHAPTER II. 



THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 

BRAIN FEVER.— INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

HIS disorder affects the brain or its membranes, or both, and is caused 
by over-exertion in warm weather or exposure to the sun on a hot 
day; insufficiency of water; very stimulating food; hard blows on 
^pJ the head. It is not common among horses. At first the symp- 
toms are mild, including heavy eyes, with red membranes under the eyelids; 
loss of appetite; the head rests on some object or between the legs; sleep, 





96. VIOLENT SYMPTOM OF BRAIN FEVER. 



followed by sudden waking, staring, and dozing again. In a day or two 
there will be delirium with convulsions and fits of excitement; heaving 
flanks; wild, red, staring, bloodshot eyes, wide open; nostrils stretched out; 

544 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



545 



the breathing has a snoring sound; constipation; scanty urine. Then may 
follow dullness, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and death; or the horse 
may grow more violent before death, plunging about, pawing, biting and 
striking at every one near, with eyes standing out from the sockets, breath- 
ing and pulse rapid, and mouth hot and dry; the horse dashes violently 
against any object by him, falls exhausted, foaming at the mouth, sweating, 
and then dying. Symptoms of colic may be confused with these, but in 
colic rolling is prominent, as it is not here, and consciousness is not lost. 
The symptoms of brain fever, or "mad-staggers," should be carefully com- 
pared with those of apoplexy, or "sleepy staggers," found in the next sec- 
tion. But those of stomach staggers (see section on that disease) are most 
likely to be confused with the indications of brain fever. Hence the fol- 
lowing distinctions made by Gamgee should be carefully noted: 



INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

Very rare ; never epidemic. 

History indicates the cause to be some 
local injury; sometimes due to disease of 
the ears. 

Originates and progresses slowly. 

Usually very slight functional disturb- 
ance of stomach and intestines, indicated 
by costiveness. 

High fever of a persistent type. 

Stupor, listlessness. 

No signs of colic, and rarely sweats. 

Permanent uneasiness, ranging very 
slightly in intensity ; delirium occasionally 
marked, but more frequently coma. 

Symptoms yield slowly and with diffi- 
culty to treatment. 

Consequences. — No tendency to ruptured 
stomach; suppuration often results, with 
marked symptoms of coma or blood-poi- 
soning. 



STOMACH STAGGERS WITH DELIRIUM. 

A common disease ; often epidemic. 

History indicates the cause to be repletion 
of the stomach. 

Comes on suddenly. 

Marked signs of derangement of alimen- 
tary canal. 

Febrile symptoms easily dispersed, 
Symptoms of severe pain. 
Colic, sweats, tremors. 
Paroxysmal derangement and severe de- 
lirium. 

When evacuation of the stomach is ob- 
tained the delirium disappears, and the 
animal soon recovers. 

Consequences. — Death in a few hours in 
many cases ; ruptured stomach, indicated 
by symptoms of vomiting. 



Treatment. — The most common treatment is free blood-letting, with 
powerful cathartics. While this may give temporary relief, the depletion, 
even if recovery takes place, will often produce a useless animal, a fine- 
spirited horse scarcely ever becoming more than a broken-down hack. A 
much better treatment consists in arterial sedatives which lessen the fever 
and allay the inflammation. Among the best of these we mention 



546 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tincture ot veratrum viride in five-drop doses every half hour to two hours 
until the pulse is diminished in frequency and the symptoms improve. 
Aconite is another good remedy for the early stages, especially 
for prominent and persistent fever-symptoms; hard, rapid pulse; labored 
breathing; inflamed nostrils and eyes. Belladonna is needed for dull, red, 
or wild eyes; vessels of the head swollen, and those of the neck pulsating; 
hot, drv mouth; plunging; raging; unconsciousness; increased paroxysms; 
convulsions in the legs; foaming at the mouth; the horse falls, sweats, lies 
a short time, and rises again with violent actions. Give opium for constipa- 
tion; slow and full pulse; drowsiness; stupor; breathing slow; glassy eyes; 
nostrils spread. Gelseminum :s desirable when the disease results from 
direct exposure to the hot sun; much weakness of the muscles; enlarged 
pupils. Give glonoine when the eyes protrude, with wild, staring look, 
without the fury which indicates belladonna. Arnica (putting ten drops 
of tincture in a pint of water, and giving a tablespoonful every hour, or 
oftener) is desirable when the disorder arises from a blow or other external 
injury. Bromide of potassa in half-drachm to one-drachm doses, or chloral 
hydrate in doses of twenty to forty grains, will allay the delirium and 
violent symptoms. Put cold cloths about the head, and give as diet a 
little hay or grass, with a free allowance of water, keeping the animal in a 
cool, airy stable and insure as complete quiet as possible. 

APOPLEXY.— SLEEPY STAGGERS. 

This is characterized by an impairment or loss of consciousness, feeling, 
and power of motion, caused by pressure on the brain from concussion, con- 
gestion of blood-vessels. We treat apoplexy and sleepy staggers together, 
though they are not the same. The former is much more rapid in its 
course, but calls for such measures as are here indicated, if time is given for 
any treatment. 

Symptoms. — Dullness in the stable or harness; hanging of the head, 
often with some object as a support; sight and hearing dull; pulse and 
breathing slow ; the horse takes food with his lips, dozes, wakens and re- 
news eating; the dung does not pass frequently, and is scanty. As the dis- 
ease increases, the horse may be startled by a sharp noise, as the cracking 
of a whip, but is unable to move; prefers to stand, the legs being in strange 
positions, pushed forward or back, or even crossed; falls, and cannot rise; 
hind legs sometimes convulsed ; then the eyes protrude, staring fiercelv 
and immovably, the pupils becoming enlarged; grinding teeth; swallowing 
difficult, or wholly stopped; muscles twitch; vessels of the neck are en- 
larged;' nose cold; dung passes involuntarily; sometimes nervous excite- 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 547 

ment and delirium, followed by stupidity. It is not attended with swelling 
of the stomach, as in the case of Stomach Staggers. 

Treatment. — Treatment is seldom beneficial, but the remedies most 
likely to relieve are here given, and should be administered while the horse 
is kept perfectly quiet in cases of Apoplexy. Belladonna is desirable for 
wild, staring, immovable eyes, with enlarged pupils; twitching and jerking 
of the legs; involuntary passage of urine. Continue it some time. Give 
nux vomica for lessened consciousness; constipation; involuntary discharge 
of urine; inability to move the limbs; spasmodic jerks. Opium may be 
given for drowsiness, or deep sleep; irregular, snoring breathing; full, slow 
pulse; contracted pupils. In the case of Apoplexy, keep the horse per- 
fectly quiet. When Sleepy Staggers are under treatment, do not work 
the horse at all in warm weather, and never to excess at any time. While 
the former is rapidly fatal, the latter may continue even for years, though 
the animal is not fit for breeding purposes after it has appeared. 

PARALYSIS. 

This is a loss of the power of locomotion, perhaps with loss of sensi- 
bility, resulting from a disorder of the nerves. It usually affects only the 
hind parts, but may be found in any portion of the body which is influ- 
enced by the nerves that are disordered. It is caused by attempts to stop a 
heavy load when descending a hill; by slipping up; by straining in a leap; 
by a severe blow on the back; by turning in a stall; by casting in the stable; 
by violent exertion during a surgical operation; by a fall in a race, in which 
case the horse lies a short time, rises slowly, is stiff, drags his legs, lies in 
the stable unable to rise, indicating great pain, quivering and slight spasms of 
the muscles of the hind quarters if there be a strain in the muscles; (if the 
spine be injured by such a fall, the muscles are quiet and soft to the touch). 
Another cause is the bringing of young horses to a sudden halt, throwing 
them upon their haunches. 

Symptoms. — In slight paralysis, dragging of the hind legs; in other 
cases, inability to rise, excepting to receive a support on the front legs; loss 
of sensibility in the affected parts; involuntary discharge of dung and urine; 
mortification. It should be said, in general, that any portion of the body, 
however small, may be paralyzed. 

Treatment. — The first aim in the treatment is the discovery and re- 
moval of the special cause, if that is possible, whether it be a derangement 
of the urinary, digestive or uterine organs, congestion, inflammation, or the 
pressure of some foreign substance on the brain. When paralysis is due to 
some inflammatory condition of the brain or spinal cord, with wild, staring 



548 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

eyes, fever, and other symptoms of congestion, belladonna should be given. 
Hellebore is useful in cases marked by dry skin, retention of urine and 
dung, and when the disorder comes on suddenly. The various nerve- 
stimulants will be found valuable in protracted cases, and among them 
strychnia and nitrate of silver hold the first rank. They should be given in 
small doses, and be continued some time. Give nux vomica for stiffness of 
the back, and when the cause of the paralysis is not known; also when it 
results from insufficient food. When the cause is blows, contusions and 
other injuries of the kind, give arnica. Rhus is needed when the par- 
alysis is caused by strains, running, jumping, or general over-exertion, 
or rheumatism. Of the last two medicines, a wash may be applied 
externally on the injured part. 

Rub the affected part frequently. Give nourishing food. A current 
of electricity passed through the affected part will be of great value, but 
should be applied only by one who has been well informed. 

EPILEPSY.— CONVULSIONS. 

This is a disorder of the brain or nerves, marked by sudden fits. It is 
not frequent in the old horse, though it sometimes attacks the foal. If 
neglected, it will lead to much danger. Its causes are injury to the nervous 
system from disordered blood, brought on by exposure to the heat of the 
sun; difficult teething; grazing upon low pastures, chiefly when much dew 
falls; sudden change from poor to very rich food; protracted complaints, as 
fever and jaundice. 

Symptoins. — The animal, having been perhaps in apparently per- 
fect health, suddenly stops feeding, stares, trembles, staggers, falls, is seized 
with sudden and often severe convulsions; the eyes are much sunken, roll, 
or are distorted ; affected breathing; teeth grind; mouth foams; muscles of 
the neck stiff and contracted ; body twisted, perhaps violently ; insensibilitv. 
Then the colt may rise, eat, and be in seemingly good health again. The 
fit may last several hours, and may recur in a few weeks, growing more 
frequent if not prevented, and many repetitions will probably cause death. 
This disorder is due to reflex irritation of the nervous system, and generally 
has its origin in some deranged state of the digestive tract, most cases being 
due to worms, the removal of which will cure the affection. Remove the 
cause, if possible, whatever it be. 

Treatment. — For general convulsions, especially of the mouth, eyes 
and face; sparkling, red, staring, protruding eyes; difficult breathing; 
foaming mouth; limbs stiff and stretched out; loss of sensibility; involun- 
tary passage of urine and dung; body stiff, and head drawn back during 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 549 

the fit; falling down of the horse, and for irritation of the teeth, give bella- 
donna night and morning for a while; then at night for several weeks, to 
prevent a recurrence. Should belladonna fail, give stramonium for the 
same symptoms, but resume belladonna for several weeks after an attack, 
five to ten drops of the tincture at night. Nux vomica is desirable when 
indigestion or constipation is the cause of the attack. When the cause is 
teething, the gum may be lanced and belladonna be given. If the animal 
is excitable and robust, give less nourishing food, and more exercise ; if 
weak, tone up the system with nourishing food. During the attack prop 
the mouth open with a stick, to prevent injury to the tongue, and allow the 
animal to inhale ammonia slowly and with the greatest caution. 

FITS.— VERTIGO.— MEGRIMS. 

This disorder is a congestion of the vessels of the brain, marked by 
sudden faintness and insensibility, without convulsions, and with speedy re- 
covery. One form (called megrims technically) is caused by pressure of 
the collar on the jugular vein, by which the blood is prevented from pass- 
ing out of the vein. This form is most common in horses with peculiarly 
shaped heads; in those which carry the head high, with stiff neck, the nose 
being stiffly held out, so that running is difficult ("star-gazers"); and in 
such as carry the head on one side. Horses are predisposed to the com- 
plaint by the following (and perhaps these are the whole cause in some 
cases): Hot weather; high temper; hard work 
and bad feeding, or little work and high feed- 
ing; excessive exertion; pulling heavy loads up- 
hill; bearing reins; sudden and tight reining. 

Symptoms. — The horse may be in such good 
condition as to give no outward signs of liability 
to the disorder, even to the practiced eye of the 
veterinarian. All at once, perhaps on a hill at 
a critical moment of work, he shakes his head, 
perhaps his whole body ; lays back his ears ; 
throws up his head, with twitchings in the mus- 
cles of the neck; looks wild, his whole body 

, ■■ . , . , , , . , . i , i 97- After Repeated Attacks 

trembling; nostrils and eyelids quiver; eyeballs OF Megrims _ 

are prominent; sometimes he then is quiet a 

moment and the tit passes away; at other times he reels, falls to the ground 
lies nearly or quite insensible, and convulsed ; urine and dung may be in- 
voluntarily passed; free sweating at the close of the fit. The attacks are 
periodical, and more often occur during hot weather, and at hard work. 




i 



550 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — When the premonitory symptoms appear, stop the 
horse, loose the collar, cover the eyes, and wet the head with cold water. 
Drawing a little blood from the mouth often relieves at once. Bromide of 
ammonia or potassa will be found useful as a preventive of further attacks, 
and should be given in doses composed of a half-teaspoonful of the salts 
in a half-pint of water one to three times a day. Stramonium is of the 
highest value when the symptoms are trembling, convulsions, rolling eyes, 
and sudden fail. Give once in two or three hours, according to the se- 
veritv of the case. Aconite will immediately give relief if the disorder re- 
sults from fatigue in hot weather; but should the attack not abate readilv, 
it is probablv of the nature of apoplexy, with like cause, and the section de- 
voted to that trouble should be consulted. Nux vomica mar be given if 
the dung is hard and the urine scanty. It may also be given at night, 
followed in the morning by sulphur, the alternation being kept up as a 
preventive of recurrence of the attack. In this case give ten drops of either. 

The medicines selected should be continued, a dose a day, for at least a 
week after the attack. Avoid undue pressure on the veins by collars, 
bands, and tight reining; shade the top of the head when in the sun, keep- 
ing a sponge wet in cold water between the ears. If the animal is robust, 
give an abundance of moderate work and restrict the feed. After an at- 
tack, turn the animal out for a while, and insure rest and quiet. 

CONCUSSION OF THE BRAIN. 

C : ncussion of the brain results from a violent blow or other mechan- 
ical agency on the head, and may lead to serious disorders. 

Treatment. — Apply arnica lotion freely, and give a dose of rive 
drops of diluted arnica three times daily, or oftener if the severity of the 
case demands it. If inflammation ensues, treat as for Brain Fever. 

CEREBRO-SPINAL FEVER. 

The true causes of this disr se re unknown, but it is probablv due to 
various debilitating conditions, such as over-exertion, indigestible food, foul 
water, or sudden exposure to extreme heat. 

Symptoms. — Many of these are similar to those in man: Sudden 
cramps of the voluntary muscles of the neck and hind limbs, trembling of 
the whole body, and when the attacks come on slowly there is extreme 
dullness and lassitude for many hours, with paralysis of the throat and lips, 
c.v^ing a great flow of saliva. General paralysis follows these conditions, 
and eventually the animal is unable to stand, and lies prone upon its side 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 551 

with lax and extended limbs. The usual symptoms of coma and stupor 
appear. Recovery may ensue in mild forms of this disease. A good, but not 
excessive appetite throughout is a favorable sign. The pulse, at first slow 
and soft, becomes weaker and more rapid in the latter stages; external 
temperature cool ; bowels costive, with involuntary voiding of urine with no 
change in its character. Often there is tenderness of the spine, which may 
be detected by pressure. 

Treatment. — In some cases little can be done in the way of treat- 
ment. Unless there is complete paralysis, the patient should be placed in 
as comfortable a position as possible, and be fed on laxative food, as bran- 
mashes and like articles, with cold water to drink. The spine may be 
rubbed with stimulating liniments, or alternate applications of hot water 
and ice. The limbs should be kept warm, and frequently given a hot 
mustard-bath. When the fever is high and the pulse rapid, veratrum 
viride, in three to five drop doses, should be given until the heart's action is 
controlled. If there be great coldness of the limbs and ears, quick pulse 
and hot mouth, aconite may be given in five to ten drop doses of the tinc- 
ture. Bromide of potassa in twenty-grain doses will be found useful in the 
early stages to allay the pain and quiet the animal. It may be given in 
alternation or with either of the above remedies. Should the horse be un- 
able to swallow, the medicine can be put on the tongue or injected in a 
watery solution under the skin. After the acute symptoms have subsided, 
mild tonics will be found useful; if paralysis supervene, treat that. 

NERVOUS FEVER. 

This is rare, and is caused by insufficiency of space allotted to the 
horse in his stable. In such case, the stable being closed during the night 
or during bad weather, the air becomes impure and produces the fever. 

Symptoms. — Shivering; cold legs and skin; no sweats; pulse from 70 
to 100, small, thready, and growing very weak; respiration quick and 
short, about 60 per minute, with working of the wings of the nostrils; 
great weakness and dejection; increased flow of saliva; tongue and mem- 
branes of the mouth seem congested; difficult swallowing; glands not 
swollen; pain, as shown by an anxious eye; pawing; looking at the flanks; 
attempts to lie down, the horse immediately resuming the standing pos- 
ture, with the head on the ground or under the manger; urine scanty and 
high colored; bowels constipated, or pass a few soft balls covered with 
slimy mucus; at an early stage, wind in the stomach, with frequent belch- 
ing; pressure near the stomach gives pain; the action of the heart grows 
feeble, fluttering, and then silent, or hardly perceptible; breathing may be 



oo\ 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



labored and deep; perhaps dysentery or diarrhoea; frequent passage of 
wind; straining; dung chiefly mucus, tinged with blood; in fatal cases the 
horse walks around, knocks his head against objects about him: lies down; 
tries to rise, but fails. The animal has pains in the abdomen, but does not 
roll and often rise as in colic. 

Treatment. — For the shivering, give aconite four times an hour, for 
one hour in five-drop doses, then lengthen the interval between doses. For 
the symptoms in general, give nux vomica every quarter or half-hour, ac- 
cording to the severity of the case. If the abdomen be not swollen and 
full of wind, give it once in two hours. If the swelling of the abdomen 
be great, and not relieved bv nux vomica, give ammonium causticum or 
cocculus as long as the distension lasts, the dose being ten drops in a wine- 
glassful of water every twenty minutes. Arsenicum will be found useful 
when there are scouring of the bowels and a low state of the system; give 
one-hundredth of a grain, or three to five drops of Fowler's Solution. 

MADNESS.— RABIES.— HYDROPHOBIA. 



This is never spontaneous with the horse, but is always occasioned 
by the virus of madness, usually received from an infected dog, whether 
the dog bites the horse or licks a wound, or the horse in some way swal- 
lows the saliva of the dog. When a dog is around the stable showing the 
symptoms of madness (see under Madness in the Dog), the matter de- 
mands immediate notice. 

Synifitoms. — Though the 
disease usually appears in about 




[X Hydrophobia 



Violent Symptoms in Hydrophobia. 



three days after the infection from a dog, the horse should be guarded and 
treated for six weeks, if the disorder do not sooner occur. At first, among 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 553 

the symptoms, the upper lip quivers; head down; anxious and sad look; legs, 
ears and mouth cold ; staring coat ; loss of appetite ; eyes closed, or have an 
inquiring look, or become suddenly fierce; shivering skin; eyes, jaws or 
limbs become convulsed. Then there occur great restlessness; violent con- 
vulsions; wandering eyes; dread of cold air; aversion to light; prominent 
sexual excitement in stallions and mares; tendency to bite any object; great 
thirst; violent snorting; grating of teeth; change of voice when neighing; 
foaming mouth, with phlegm discharged in strings; kicking; pawing; 
plunging, or flat prostration on the ground or floor, the legs and head 
dashing about; tearing of the flanks and fore legs; partial paralysis of hind 
parts; increased convulsions in death. Madness may be confounded with 
inflammation of the brain, but in the latter consciousness is lost, while it is 
not in the former. 

Treatment. — If the bite or infection be known at the time, wash 
the wound, if there be one, with cold water (into which it is better to put a 
few drops of belladonna), removing as much of the virus as possible. 
Then thoroughly cauterize the wound, as directed for Hydrophobia in the 
Dog, cover the bite with bandages saturated with water and belladonna, 
and continue the application as long as any traces of the wound remain. 
Give five drops of belladonna four times a day for six weeks. If a mad 
dog has been among a number of horses, even when it is uncertain 
whether he has bitten any, treat all with the belladonna, as directed, for ten 
days or two weeks. 

When the active symptoms have appeared, it is best to kill the horse at 
once, in view of the improbability of a cure and the danger to attendants. 
See Hydrophobia in Chapter III, Part I, and in succeeding parts. 

INSANITY. 

This is generally not distinguished from madness, but that it exists in 
horses as well as in man there is good reason to believe. 

Symptoms. — These are a perverted or depraved appetite ; change in 
the affections and temper; viciousness. Many horses which suddenly be- 
come vicious and violent are affected with insanity, and not with obstinate, 
willfully bad temper. The horse may be permanently afflicted, when it is 
easy to distinguish the disorder from madness; or he may be only tempo- 
rarily insane, with an absence of some of the more special symptoms of 
madness, recovering after the cause (inflammation, abscess of the brain, 
thickening of the membranes of the brain, etc.,) has disappeared. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna when the disorder results from an 
affection of the brain, when the symptoms indicating this medicine, as 



554 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



mentioned under belladonna in inflammation of the brain, occur. Give 
stramonium for the symptoms indicating belladonna, if the latter remedy 
fails. Hyoscyamus is beneficial for great excitability, enlarged pupils, and 
sleeplessness. Put ten drops of the chosen remedy in a pint of water and 
give a wine-glassful once in from one to six hours, according to the severity 
of the case. Chloral hydrate or bromide of potassa will be found useful in 
violent cases, to produce quiet, twenty to forty grains at a dose. 

LOCK-TAWV— TETANUS. 



This is a general or partial contraction of the muscles. It is more 
common in old horses. The causes we divide, for convenience, into two 
classes: — (i) Exposure to cold after clipping; snow and cold winds; ex- 
cessive heat; severe weather of any kind; over-exertion; worms in the 
bowels; bots in the stomach; disordered digestion; inflammation of the 
stomach, bowels, lungs, or liver; advanced stages of stomach staggers (which 
see). (2) Wounds, especially those that are not inflammatory, such as 
result from clipping; docking; nicking; castration; cutting of abscesses; 
bruises; pricks in shoeing; open joints; broken knees; nails in the sole of 
the foot; dirt; rust, or points of instruments in wounds; galling of saddle 
or harness; severely crushed bones. Slight wound.-? and injuries most often 
lead to it because thev are too much disregarded. Horses are rendered 
more liable to lock-jaw by low condition, cold weather, starvation, and 
other debilitating conditions. 

Symptoms. — Though these may occur within a half-hour, especially 
when the cause is found under fi) above, the effects may not come on, 

when resulting from a 
wound, until the wound 
is nearly healed. At 
first, the horse seems 
to be in good health, 
neighs when a person 
approaches, as if hun- 
gry; appetite usually 
good throughout; diffi- 
39' culty in taking food 

with the lips; champ- 
ing of jaws; grinding 
of teeth ; mouth closed, 
or so nearly so that the horse can not feed ; free discharge of saliva ; any 
excitement causing twitching of the muscles of the neck and faCe; perhaps 




Mode of Feeding in Chhonic Lock -Jaw. 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 555 

colic and constipation. In later stages, the mouth is firmly shut, the muscles 
of the lower jaw being contracted and hard; head raised; neck stiff and 
immovable; nose stuck out; nostrils enlarged; breathing loud and quick; 
pulse hard, frequent, and unyielding; eyes wide open, fixed, drawn back- 
ward into the socket, with the white drawn over the eyeballs; lips firmly 
drawn across the mouth, exposing the teeth, which are clenched or 
slightly parted; saliva drops from the mouth ; ears erect, stiff and pointed 
forward; the look is distressed and frightened; as the disease progresses the 
head is fixed in one position; neck stiff on one or both sides, drawn to one 
side if that only be affected. The limbs are not usually involved at first, 
but later their muscles are hard and stiffened, the feet being placed wide 
apart, the horse standing fixed to one place; any movement causes great 
pain, all joints appearing inflexible; the upper muscles of the neck con- 
tract, producing "ewe-neck;" belly hard and tucked-up; tail elevated and 
trembling; the alimentary system is involved, causing costiveness and per- 
haps scanty urine; swallowing difficult, if the horse can indeed suck up 
liquid food. Any excitement exaggerates the symptoms. Lock-jaw may 
not commence with spasm of the jaws. It often begins with contraction 
of the muscles of the hinder extremities and extends to the whole body, 
becoming severe, if not fatal, when it " locks " the jaws. 

Treatment. — In the early stages a cure may often be effected by 
giving a small piece of stale bread saturated with fifteen to twenty drops of 
tincture of camphor, followed by another dose in an hour, another two 
hours later, a fourth four hours later, or more frequently if the urgency of 
the case demands it. Arnica may be used instead of camphor for cases 
caused by mechanical injuries. Give aconite for early stages of cases re- 
sulting from exposure to cold. Nux vomica is the leading remedy and 
should be given when the spasms are first discovered; it is useful when 
lock-jaw results from disorders of the alimentary canal; for twitchings and 
jerks; increase of spasm by excitement; stiffness of muscles; head drawn 
upward and backward, and the body arched and bent rigidly backward. 
For symptoms indicating nux vomica, strychnia is invaluable, but must 
be giveit cautiously, alone, and never more than one-fifth of a grain at 
once, the usual dose being one-hundredth of a grain. Arnica may be ap- 
plied externally to wounds, pricks in shoeing, and sores from nails in the 
sole of the foot; in such cases it may be given internally as well, alternated 
with nux vomica, Gelseminum is very good for shivering, great distress 
and complete loss of muscular power. To relieve the spasm chloroform 
internally, in twenty drop doses, or by inhalation, will be of great service, 
inhalation being the more efficacious. Sulphuric ether may be used in the 
same manner as chloroform. If all other remedies prove ineffectual, 



00'? COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

twenty drops of nitrate of amyl may be given by inhalation. Put it on a 
small towel and let it be slowly inhaled by the horse. It may be repeated 
in two or three hours if no perceptible effect has been produced. 

The slightest excitement will aggravate the distress. Loud noises, 
exposure to the sun's rays . angry words, the presence of spectators, and 
even the rustle of straw, are excitants. Hence, let the attendants be as few 
as is consistent with proper care. Let the stall be comfortable and re- 
moved from annovances, with but little light. Chop the bedding into short 
pieces, to allow free movement of the feet, changing it often: have plentv 
of dry clothing, using the amount required by the circumstances, and chang- 
ing frequently on account of the free sweats incident to the disorder. If a 
prick in shoeing or stepping on a nail be the cause of lock-jaw, remove the 
shoe, pare and rasp the foot thin; remove all foreign substances from the 
wound; squeeze out the pus or watery matter; then make a poultice of 
bran soaked in sixteen fluid ounces of hot water, into which has been pre- 
viously* put one ounce of tincture of arnica. Applv this to the wound two 
or three times a day. Such a poultice may also be put upon the spine. 
Tincture of lobelia, aconite or belladonna, may be used in place of the 
arnica. When a flesh wound has caused the disease, a warm arnica-wash 
mav be applied to the wound, one ounce of tincture of arnica to sixteen 
ounces of hot water. Aconite or belladonna may be used instead of the 
arnica, if the symptoms indicate, Soak a sponge in this wash and bind it to 
the wound with linen strips, fixing the ends of the latter to the skin with 
glue or collodion, raking care that the lotion does not drain out of the 
sponge so as to moisten the glue on the ends of the strips. Do not b 
force open the jaws that are firmly set. If food can not be taken natu: 
and if suction be impossible, broth, milk, or rich gruel may be injected with 
a svringe into the bowels through the rectum. Frequent and careful rub- 
bins' of the bodv is verv useful for stimulatinsr the action of the skin and 
reducing stiffness of the muscle-. Back-raking with a well-greased arm 
and hand should be carefully applied, as it is verv useful. 

STRINGHALT. 

This is a peculiar irregular and spasmodic action of the muscles, due 
to some nervous disorder that eludes accurate discovery, causing a singular 
movement of the hind legs; the fore legs are seldom affected. The hock 
is bent, and the leg is lifted high in locomotion, with a twitching or con- 
vulsive action in picking it up. It is no: lameness, and diminishes or wholly 
disappears after the horse has been in motion a while. It increases as the 
se g-rows older, and in later years interferes seriously with traveling. 



THE HORSE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



557 



Treatment. — This disease is by many deemed incurable, but it is 
not necessarily so. Give a teaspoonful of cimicifuga night and morning, 
alternating with nux vomica. For constipation, twitching or jerking of 
the limbs or sets of muscles, impaired appetite, and other marks of disor- 
dered stomach, with irritable temper, give ten drops of nux vomica three 
times a day. A lotion of rhus or poison oak may be applied with benefit. 




CHAPTER III. 
THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 



THE TEETH. 



fHE general treatise on the digestive organs is found in Chapter 



fe TV of Part I, but the importance of the teeth of the horse as an 

Jtyl |JJk index of age calls for a special notice and copious illustration. 

^Pd Points in determining the age are the following: — There are two 

sets of teeth, the temporary or milk-teeth, and the permanent, the same 

number being on each jaw. 

The temporary are twelve front teeth, or incisors, and twelve molars, or 
grinders. The permanent set has twelve incisors, twenty-four molars, and 
four canines or tushes hi the male. At birth, or within about ten davs 
afterward, the two central incisors are found, and about the same time three 
molars on each side of either jaw appear; at six months, four more middle 
incisors are seen; about the eighth month, two corner incisors on each law; 
at one year, there is the full temporary set. During the second year are 
cut two molars on either side of each jaw — eight in all — making twelve inci- 
sors and twenty molars, of which twenty-four are temporary and eight 
(molars) permanent. At two years and a half two permanent incisors 
displace the two temporary central ones, and are distinguished by increased 
size and a dark mark in the center. Between three and four years the next 
incisors are displaced by permanent ones. Between four and five, the corner 
incisors are likewise changed, and about this time the twelve temporary 
molars are replaced by permanent teeth, to which are added the remaining 
molars of the ??iare i s mouth. At about four and a half, the four canines 
or tushes of the horse are seen and become fully grown at five. At six the 
central incisors of the lower jatv lose the dark mark in the crown which 
appeared at about three, perhaps a little before. At seven, this mark dis- 
appears from the middle incisors, and at eight is worn from all of them. 
At ten, eleven and twelve, the mark disappears from the central, middle 
and corner incisors respectively of the iipper jaw. We thus have a fair 
index to the age. The teeth becoming longer, their edges triangular (tushes 
round and blunt), dishonest men attempt to practice various impositions, by 

558 




ioi. One Yeak. 




102. Two Years. 




103. Three Ybaks. 




104.. Four Years. 

(559) 




io5. Five Years. 




106. Six Years. 





io8. Another View at Seven. 




109. Eight Years 




no. Nine Years. 




in. Ten Years. 




112. Eleven Years. 
(561) 




"3- 



Twelve Years. 




114. Sixteen Years. 




115. Twenty Years. 




116. Twenty-Four Years. 




THE HORSE — THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM, 



563 



changing- their appearance — "bi^hoping" the teeth. For instance, a three- 
year old may be made to appear older by drawing the teeth which would 
soon drop out, thus allowing a more rapid growth to the permanent teeth; 
or a cavity is cut into the surface of the corner teeth and darkened with 
a hot iron or other means, to make a horse look younger. 

COLIC. 

This should not be mistaken for inflammation of the bowels (enteritis), 
or for stomach staggers. The following table will aid one in distinguishing 
it from the former, as well as from other disorders. 



ENTERITIS. 

The attack comes on gradually ; restless- 
ness and fever-symptoms being present five 
or six hours before the violent symptoms. 

Pain continuous, with but slight intervals 
of comparative ease. 

Pressure on the abdomen gives pain. 



The pulse quick and full, or hard and 
thready ; as the disease advances, rising to 
double the number of beats, or even more. 



The extremities cold. 



"* The pain comes on suddenly, without 
any symptom, and is violent from the first. 

Pain comes on in paroxysms, with 
marked intervals of ease. 

Pressure or friction on the abdomen 
gives relief. 

The pulse not affected, except during the 
paroxysms of pain, or after the latter has 
continued some time. It is thus variable ; 
sometimes natural, at others small and 
feeble, then full and quick. 

The extremities warm. 



Colic is of two kinds, the spasmodic and the Jiatulent or windy, and the 
two kinds require separate description and treatment. 



SPASMODIC COLIC. 

This form is caused by impure air and irregular exercise, with dry, poor 
food and insufficient water. It is aggravated or excited by sudden chills, 
chiefly after hard work; free drinking of cold or mineral water; constipa- 
tion; gritty lumps in the intestines; violent purging; green food in undue 
quantities. 

Symptoms of Spasmodic Colic. — Severe pains in the abdomen coming 
on in paroxysms; the horse, in apparently previous good health, turns his 
nose toward the flanks with a frightened look, paws, and is uneasy. As 
yet the pulse is natural ; an appearance of ease is now observed for a short 
period, then the symptoms return and are aggravated ; the horse stamps 



564 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 




nS. 



First Stage of Spasmodic Colic. 



and kicks at his belly; starts to lie down, but again stands up; suddenly 
snatches up a leg and slowly lets it down again; walks around uneasily, 
occasionally dashing his head on some object; stops in the midst of mastica- 
tion, resuming the eating as usual during the temporary ease, shaking him- 
self at these times; draws 
the legs to the belly, or 
stretches them out rigidly; 
sometimes rolls violently 
on the back; puffs at his 
belly ; if the attack is often 
repeated, he falls with a 
grunt, and stretches himself 
at full length, lying quietly 
until another spasm occurs, 
when he will rise or roll, 
resting his back against the 
wall ; the pulse during the 
pains is hard or wiry, and 
small, but is full and soft during the periods of ease; as the disease advances 
the eye grows wild and haggard, the pulse imperceptible, the breathing 
short and hurried, the sweat clammy and cold ; the horse dashes his head 
around until it becomes cut and swollen. When death is near, the bowels 
are constipated and the urine stopped. 

Treatment of the Spasmodic Form. — Give aconite (every ten 
minutes, gradually increasing the intervals to thirty minutes) when the 
colic results from chill, or 
drinking cold water when 
the horse is heated; for 
frequent but fruitless at- 
tempts to pass dung or 
urine; and when the ab- 
domen is tender, swollen 
and rumbling. Give nux 
vomica as often and at the 
same intervals as aconite, 
when the disorder is caused 
by over-eating or unsuit- 
able food ; when there are 
constipation, hard lumps 
and no urine resulting from attempts at evacuation; and for great pain, 
indicated by the animal lying down, being restless, and frequently looking 




Second Stage of Spasmodic Colic. 



THE HORSE— THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 



565 



at the side. Cantharis is serviceable for stoppage of urine; if it fails, give 
hyoscyamus. Opium is valuable for constipation when the dung is scanty 
and blackish, in which case injections of soapsuds should also be admin- 
istered. Nux vomica and opium may be alternated for obstinate constipa- 
tion which tends to keep up the pain of colic. 

A very superior remedy when the colic results from eating green food, 
when the belly is swollen with gas, and watery dung and wind are ex- 
pelled, and when the horse rolls violently in severe pain, is colocynth. It 
should be given in five-drop doses every half-hour until relief ensues. Ar- 
senicum should be given when there is much wind, and when the colic is 
occasioned by imperfect digestion, bad or excessive food, or drinking cold 
water Use injections of warm water and soap, as they are preferable to 
back-raking. Apply cloths wrung out in quite warm water in severe cases 
(See cut 123). Keep the horse in a loose stall, with an abundance of 
straw for him to roll on as he is inclined, confining him thus without 
exercise until the attack passes off. After the violent symptoms have sub- 
sided, give gentle exercise and soft food for a few days. 

Windy or Flatulent Colic. — This form arises from excessive or 
bad food, especially green clover; a hearty meal eaten greedily after hard 
work or a long journey; 
irregular exercise; or any- 
thing that promotes indi- 
gestion. 

The Symj>to?ns of 
Wiiidy Colic are similar 
to those of the spasmodic, 
with the addition of fre- 
quent passage of wind, and 
a drum -like enlargement 
of the abdomen by gas. 

Treatment of the 
Flatulent Form. — Nux 
vomica, ammonium causti- 
cum, aconite, arsenicum and colocynth are valuable remedies. Cocculus is 
best for all cases of windy colic when it does not result from eating exces- 
sively, or the taking of green food. Rub the abdomen with the hand with 
considerable pressure, and give warm injections. Immediate relief will 
often follow a drench of a pint of dilute vinegar and a thimbleful of pow- 
dered chalk, well shaken and given quickly before it wastes by fermenta- 
tion. In other respects, observe the directions above on the general care 
in spasmodic colic. 




120. First Stage of Flatulent Colic. 



566 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS.— ENTERITIS. 



Inflammation of the muscular coat of the intestines is caused by expos- 
ure to cold and wet; excessive exercise, with sudden chill; drinking cold 
water when heated; over-feeding; want of work; bad treatment or neglect 
of colic; strong purgatives ; continued constipation; rupture in the intestines. 

Symptoms. — These are similar to those of colic, from which thev 
should be studiously distinguished. (See the table of symptoms under 
Colic.) The pain is continuous, not paroxysmal; pulse hard and small, 
ranging from 60 to 100, and in extreme cases imperceptible or threadv; 
mouth hot, and usually dry; nostrils expanded, red and hot; bowels very 
much bound; urine stopped; abdomen tender and tucked up; extremities 
cold; copious sweats, becoming cold and sour-smelling in latter stages; 
breathing quick and short; the horse paws; lies down and rises often; 
strikes his belly; looks at his flanks as if in great pain; as the pain increases, 
the horse drops, rolls, and lies on his back; these symptoms, after some 
hours, may be followed b}* a subsidence of pain, the body being still covered 
with a cold, clammy sweat; the eye becomes lusterless; the lips hang; the 
mouth is very cold; tremor 
occurs in the muscles, par- 
ticularly in the extremities. 
These symptoms indicate 
an inflammation of the outer 




Ge.ver.u- Sigx of Abdominal 
Irritation. 



12. PiCtSsLKE TO II Kl I iKITIS. 



muscular coat. An inflamed inner coat will be marked, in addition to most 
of the above, by warm ears and extremities; discharge of liquid, frothy 
dung, sometimes bloody; feebler and quicker pulse; the taking of breath is 
short, and its expulsion checked and then completed with a groan. In 
extreme cases the horse totters, knocks his head on various objects, falls, 
and with a few struggles dies. 

Treatment. — Treatment should be given as soon as possible, and 
since the disease is most likely dependent upon some derangement of the 
mucous surface and the cellular tissue under it, it should not be entirelv 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 



567 



local, but general as well. Aconite is by far the best remedy, and if 
administered in the early stages, will usually effect a cure. It should be 
continued as long as the pulse remains hard, and the pain severe. After 
giving several doses fifteen minutes apart, it should be administered every 
half-hour, or in alternation with another remedy if the pulse continues 
hard and quick. If the constipation is inflexible, give nux vomica, fol- 
lowed in fifteen minutes by aconite, and continuing the alternation in this 
manner. Give belladonna, not in the first stages, as a remedy interme- 
diate between aconite and arsenicum, when the pulse becomes feeble or 
thread-like; the eye red and wild-looking; the animal delirious; prostra- 
tion; mouth and body yet warm; belly swollen and tender; great pain. 
Arsenicum should be given when the inflammation has resulted from cold, 
drink taken when the body is warm, or from irregularity of feeding; also, 
if there be rapid prostration, restlessness, cold and clammy sweats, hur- 
ried and weak pulse. Colocynth is desirable, perhaps in alternation with 
aconite, when the large intestines are mainly affected, and there is wind in 
the belly, with ineffectual attempts to pass dung. If there be great thirst, 
tender belly, prostration, 
shivering, perspiration, 
watery, offensive dung, 
passed with straining, some- 
times slimy and bloody, mer- 
curius corrosivus will be 
found an efficient remedy. 
Apply to the abdomen cloths 
wrung out of water as hot 
as the horse will bear, with- 
out scalding or blistering. 
Warm injections of starch 
will be of assistance. Ap- 
ply to the legs mustard to 

restore circulation. Never resort to bleeding. Give gruel freely. An anti- 
dote must be given in cases resulting from poisoning, upon which consult 
the treatment given for the poison in question, to which reference will be 
made in the list on page 359. Remember, however, that emetics are not 
to be given to the horse. Give mild food until all irritation has subsided. 



■ 




Application of Hot Cloths. 



DIARRHCEA.— SCOURING. 



This is a looseness of the bowels caused by unwholesome food, min- 
eral or brackish water, strong cathartics, atmospheric agencies, derange- 



568 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ment of the blood, congested lining membrane of the intestines, nervous 
excitement, worms, derangement of some organ, as the stomach or liver, 
influenza or other disease. 

Syjnptoms. — Frequent passages of dreggy or watery dung, without 
the blood which is common in dysentery, with or without griping; some- 
times straining and discharge of wind; pawing, rolling and looking at the 
flank; discharges occasionally black and very offensive, but usually not 
offensive, and containing small pieces of hay; appetite lessened or lost; 
pulse quick, weak and irregular, and breathing hurried, though neither is 
much affected in early stages; straining increases with the advance of the 
disease, with more wind passing. In severe cases there, will be offensive 
breath, cold skin and extremities, and rapid decline of flesh and strength. 

Treatment. — When diarrhoea results from taking cold, or when 
congestion of the mucous membrane is supposed to exist, aconite will allay 
the inflammation. This remedy may be given in connection with mercu- 
rius if the discharges are slimy and offensive, and the breath is foul. Some- 
times the disorder follows constipation, and the discharges will then first 
be composed of dry, hard balls, then loose, and thus alternating. In such 
a condition nux vomica will be invaluable. In painless diarrhoea, with 
watery discharges, cold skin and shivering, give half-teaspoonful doses of 
tincture of camphor every hour until relief is afforded. Give arsenicum or 
phosphoric acid for watery, slimy, greenish or brownish diarrhoea, with or 
without griping pains; also when the animal is weak, thin, with poor or no 
appetite; and for diarrhoea in fevers of a typhoid nature. Cinchona is very 
useful in cases induced by hot weather, and not of an inflammatory char- 
acter; for chronic cases, with painless discharges, loss of flesh, appetite and 
strength; for intermittent cases, and as a tonic after the acute symptoms 
have disappeared. Give veratrum album when the discharges are alto- 
gether watery and involuntary, the pulse collapsed or almost imperceptible, 
the nose, mouth and ears cold, parts of the body moistened with cold 
sweat, the expression haggard ; thirst, and occasional griping pains ; admin- 
ister it every quarter of an hour at first and increase the intervals as the 
diarrhoea declines. Use mercurius corrosivus every half-hour when the 
dung is mixed with blood, or is merely mucus with wind and straining. 
If there is much pain, administer colocynth. Large draughts of linseed or 
olive oil will clear the bowels of any irritating substance, and they should 
be followed by starchy and mucilaginous drinks. Astringents and opiates 
should be given with caution, and never when there are any irritating sub- 
stances in the bowels. Give three or four times a day three table-spoonfuls 
of flour paste in a quart of water, or more water if the horse is thirsty, 
especially if the disorder has resulted from an overdose of physic; clothe 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 5(59 

the body and legs warmly; omit all exercise for two or three days, and 
when the appetite returns feed boiled oats or barley. 

DYSENTERY.— BLOODY FLUX. 

Inflammation of the membrane lining the large intestines occasions 
an unusual secretion of mucus, usually tinged with blood, attended with 
straining, and this is called dysentery, or bloody flux. A fever of a low 
typhoid nature may cause it, or extreme heat, or indeed anything that de- 
presses the nervous system may be the cause, as well as exposure to cold 
and wet, sudden chill, diseases of the skin and breathing organs, bad, exces- 
sive, or insufficient food, low, marshy grazing, oppressive, dry, sultry 
weather long continued, and it may result from diarrhoea. It is not com- 
mon among horses, except in the chronic form. 

Symptoms. — These are in some respects like those in diarrhoea, but it 
will be observed that the disease under question is marked by a mixture of 
blood and mucus in the dung; pulse small and quick; great thirst; quick- 
ened breathing; at first, shivering and fever-indications; appetite gone; 
slight griping; frequent straining; pain in belly; end of rectum some- 
times protrudes in straining; loss of spirits. When the discharges are oc- 
casional, following marked constipation, and consist of a small hard ball or 
two, with wind and much straining, the disease is true dysentery; when 
they are dreggy, it is called diarrhoea, the discharge not being attended 
with straining. 

Treatment. — Dysentery is often the result of clogging or impaction 
of the bowels, giving rise to inflammation, and in such cases this cause is 
to be removed by giving large draughts of olive or linseed oil, together 
with full injections of starch-water. When this has been effected, and the 
disorder is still accompanied with severe straining, protrusion of the rectum, 
discharges of blood, or of slimy, bloody mucus, with hardened dung, or 
with discharges nearly black and mixed with tough lymph, and frequent 
and straining attempts to pass urine, mercurius corrosivus will be invalu- 
able. Give nux vomica if the dysentery is attended with constipation at 
times, with frequent passage of one or two hard balls, straining and un- 
successful efforts to pass urine and wind. Phosphoric acid is very service- 
able for dysenteric diarrhoea, with fevers of a typhoid character. Give 
arsenicum if the dung is liquid, passed nearly involuntarily, bloody, offen- 
sive, and greenish, or nearly black; rumbling and windy bowels; loss of 
appetite, strength and flesh; skin and extremities cold; straining and pas- 
sages of wind; for debility resulting from bleeding, purging, and such dis- 
eases as typhoid fever. As food give mashes of bran, crushed wheat or 



570 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

barley, or of roots. Boiled linseed, starch-water or barley-water should 
be mixed with the drink to allay pain and irritation. 

CONSTIPATION.— COSTIVENESS. 

This is a stoppage of the bowels, usually affecting the rectum. It is, 
properly speaking, a symptom of some disorder, but as its neglect may 
lead to inflammation of the bowels, it is here separately treated. It is 
caused, in addition to different specific disorders, by old age, inability to 
pass the dung which is in the rectum at birth, indigestible food, such as old, 
rough grass which clogs the rectum, deficiency of water, insufficient exer- 
cise, imperfect mastication, lack of digestive fluids, as the saliva and bile. 

Symptoms. — Impaired appetite, indications of pain in the abdomen, 
straining efforts to empty the bowels, hardened dung, restlessness and 
irritability. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica and sulphur will almost always afford re- 
lief, a dose of the former being given at night and one of the latter in the 
morning. Give regular exercise, boiled food, less oats for a while, and in- 
jections of warm soap-suds. Back-raking is dangerous. The bowels are 
sometimes obstructed by the lower part of the small intestine slipping 
down into the upper end of the larger one (invagination), and in such a 
case powerful cathartics are extremely dangerous, and indeed should never 
be used. If free injections will not relieve this latter condition, the abdo- 
men may be opened by skillful hands, though it is a hazardous operation. 
Relief is sometimes afforded by jumping from a bank about two feet high. 
Manipulating, by the hand in the rectum, has produced good results. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.— GASTRITIS. 

This is of two kinds, which, for the sake of convenience, we will call 
special and ge?ieral. The distinction should be carefully made, as the 
treatment of the one differs from that of the other. 

THE SPECIAL FORM. 

This is caused by some vegetable or mineral poison or animal irritant 
taken into the stomach, especially by too much aloes, oil of turpentine, cor- 
rosive sublimate, arsenic, lead, copper, antimony, ammonia, cantharides, 
oxalic, nitric and sulphuric acids. 

Symptoms. — Quick pulse (So per minute ), steady, small, perhaps im- 
perceptible; thirst usually great; partial sweats; cold extremities: saliva 



THE HORSE TIJE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 



571 



flows from the mouth; indications of dysentery, such as straining and 
passage of bloody mucus; weakness; perhaps paralysis; increasing pain in 
later stages; in cases of vegetable poisoning, stupor and great drowsiness, 
enlarged pupils, paralysis, snoring, breathing; in mineral poisoning and 
animal irritants, nausea, pains 
in belly, horse looks at his 
left flank, paws and rolls. 
In all extreme cases the 
horse dashes against the 
walls, or throws himsel 
upon the ground, becoming 
delirious, and dies. 

Treatment. — In all 
cases the poison must be re- 
moved, or neutralized by 
antidotes. For metallic poi- 
sons, as arsenic, corrosive 
sublimate, verdigris, lead, 

copper, etc., give white of egg in water, soap-suds, or sugar and water, 
adding iron-rust for arsenic; for lead, give Glauber's or Epsom salts. For 
acids, as sulphuric, prussic, nitric, etc., give soda, chalk and water, am- 
monia, or magnesia. For alkalies, such as ammonia, salt of tartar, etc., 
give lemon juice and other acids. For any case, give linseed-tea, starch- 
water, or arrowroot. Injections are serviceable. Generally give mild 
food, and in small quantities, during treatment and some time thereafter. 




Symptom of Acute Gastritis. 



THE GENERAL FORM. 



This type is caused by a subtle poison in the air, acting on the brain 
of such animals as are predisposed to disease by general debilitating agen- 
cies, and especially by impure air from improper ventilation, the latter be- 
ing an independent cause; by the coating process attended with some chill 
or nerve-disorder or fever. All of these operate on the nerves of the 
stomach and neighboring organs, producing inflammation. 

Symptoms. — Pulse sixty to eighty per minute, small and weak, though 
soft and full at the beginning; foul and slimy tongue; saliva increased; 
appetite wholly lost from the commencement; limbs swollen and hot, or 
cold and not swollen; great weakness, the horse walking with legs wide 
apart, or dragging them ; membrane of the mouth deep red, yellow, or of 
a brick-dust shade; eyes nearly closed, water penetrating the lids; some- 
times a mucous pus instead of tears; the coat may be dry and loose, com- 



572 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



ing off easily when touched, and standing up when eruptions occur, which 
is not unfrequently the case; no sore throat and no discharge yet, as in 
catarrhal troubles. The disease advancing, cough or sore throat may be 
added, or the lungs become disordered, with other complications; dung 
clay-colored or black, passed in small balls covered with mucus, or it may 
pass in small quantities, frequently soft and slimy; horse usually stands 
stupid and resting his head on the manger, indicating headache ; if he lies 
down, he stretches out, occasionally turning the mouth, with curled lip, 
toward the stomach, giving evidence of nausea; sometimes marked rest- 
lessness, pawing, and walking about; the point and sides of the tongue 
very red, the middle being a dirty white; mucus-glands on each side 
much enlarged; sometimes the lining of the cheeks and lips is of a saf- 
fron color, with scarlet blotches on the gums, and red streaks on the mem- 
brane of the nose, though without sore throat; in other cases, ulceration of 
the inside of the lips and the gums, with a craving for lime, the horse lick- 
ing whitewash if it is in reach; teeth covered with yellow tartar, which 
disappears when the stomach-disorder passes off; the animal drinks water 
freely, a?id will take gruel; sometimes grinding of teeth; heart often 
affected, its beats being loud and irregular; in very bad cases, inflammation 
of the lymphatics on the legs and chest. In either form, inflammation of 
the stomach is characterized by much pain. 

Treatment. — When the symptoms are loss of appetite and spirits, 
with rapid loss of strength, tongue red at its sides, with eruptions, mouth 
slim}', its lining membrane yellow, or with scarlet blotches, dung hard 
and slimy, or soft, passing frequently only a little at a time, covered with 
mucus, with or without indications of pain and restlessness, fever of a 
weak type, the pulse being quick and small, no abnormal sound in the 
thorax, give nux vomica. In cases with greatly increased saliva, offen- 
sive breath, and ulceration or congestion of the gums, give mercurius cor- 
rosivus. If the fever become typhoid, breath, dung, and secretions offen- 
sive, pulse imperceptible, and legs dropsical, give arsenicum every two 
hours. Give only gruel and mucilaginous drinks for the diet and drink. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

Inflammation of the liver, a disease that is not frequent in horses, 
results from excess of food, especially of that which is very stimulating; 
want of exercise; hot stables; exposure to sudden changes of temperature; 
or may result from other diseases, as influenza and inflammation of the 
lungs; a heavy fall on the side may cause it; as also miasmatic influences 
and ague. It is of two kinds, acute (which seldom occurs) and chronic. 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 573 

Symptoms. — In the chronic form the symptoms are dullness; listless- 
ness; fever; pulse hard, frequent, irregular both in number and character, 
occasionally slow, sometimes fuller than usual; breathing almost wholly in 
the abdomen; mucous membrane joining the eyelid to the ball tinged 
with yellow; appetite bad; coat staring; mouth foul; tongue furred and 
dirty ; dung hard, lumpy, light-colored, sometimes white or clayey, offen- 
sive and coated with mucus; pain in right shoulder, with lameness in right 
leg; sometimes dropsy or diarrhoea; itchy skin; mucous membrane in gen- 
eral yellowish; breathing usually little affected, though fits of blowing 
occur, with hollow cough; glands about the throat sometimes enlarged; 
rapid decline of condition; occasionally dropsy of the belly; congestion 
may be present, gradually continuing, with no marked change in general 
health of the horse, until the liver bursts and causes death; inflammation 
may set in and cause swelling in the region of the liver, with quick, hard, 
and small pulse. 

In acute inflammation the horse perhaps coughs occasionally; hangs 
the head; drooping eyes; loathing of food; internal pain, not severe; 
passages of dung small and dark; urine scanty; mouth hot; fever; later, 
mucous membrane of the eyes, nose, lips and mouth yellowish; urine 
yellow; pulse strong, quick and bounding; perhaps the horse staggers. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for high fever; hot skin; thirst; furred 
tongue; restlessness; tenderness in the region of the liver, detected by the 
touch. In acute cases, give ten drops every one or two hours until the 
symptoms abate. If there be yellow coating of the tongue, yellowish 
membranes of the eyes, knotty and clayey dung, give mercurius, alone or 
in combination with podophyllin. Nux vomica is suitable for great ten- 
derness in the region of the liver; thirst; costiveness; high-colored urine. 
This may be given in alternation with mercurius. If the disease progresses 
and is attended with offensive, blackish diarrhoea, weak, small and irregular 
pulse, cold extremities and great weakness, give arsenicum; this remedy is 
also efficacious when, in chronic inflammation of the liver, that organ has 
become enlarged, and the urine is scanty, and is adapted to dropsy of the 
belly, and to cases which arise from other disorders. The diet should in 
all cases be mild and not stimulating, such in general as is given for inflam- 
mation of the bowels. Tonics may be administered to sustain the strength, 
as taraxacum, cinchona and Colombo, during the above treatment. 

PERITONITIS. 

This is an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen and of the 
membrane which covers the outside of the bowels. From inflammation of 



574 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the bowels it is distinguished by greater tenderness in the back part of the 
belly, and greater swelling; while it is unlike colic in that its pain is con- 
stant and is attended with acute fever. It is caused by wounds and injuries 
to the abdomen; exposure to cold; over-exertion, as in running and leaping; 
castration, a cold setting in afterward. It is very dangerous. 

Symptoms. — Shivering, followed by fever and inactivity or uneasiness; 
loss of appetite; thirst; breathing short, and mainly confined to the chest; 
pulse hard, quick or wirv at first, becoming thready later; the disease grow- 
ing worse, the horse paws and looks at his side; stands with legs under his 

body, with haunches against 



something, or crouches; 
motion causes more pain; 
abdomen tender, and in first 
stages tucked up, but after- 
ward grows swollen or con- 
tains wind; nostrils wide; 
anxious look; the animal 
does not lie down and arise 
often, as in colic; urine 
scanty and high-colored. In 
later stages pulse very weak ; 

125. Frequent Position during Peritonitis and Other Cold, clammy Sweats ; mouth 
Abdominal Disorders. , .". ,, , 

and extremities cold; tremb- 
ling of muscles; the horse stands moodily in one position, finally dropping 
and dying. Peritonitis may pass from the acute to the chronic form, and 
the latter may terminate in dropsy. 

Treatment. — During the inflammatory stage give aconite if there 
is high fever; and if there is a bloody discharge from the bladder, alter- 
nate it with cantharis. If there be great swelling and tenderness of the 
bellv, with pain and quick, short breath, give belladonna. If the disease 
progresses, and is marked by great loss of strength and a dropsical condi- 
tion, arsenicum will be of value, and five-drop doses of Fowler's Solution 
will be a suitable form for its administration. In cases attended with great 
swelling of the sheath, scanty urine, painful and hurried breathing, bryonia 
will be of value. Rub dry mustard on the abdomen and apply large cloths 
wrung out in hot water to the belly, holding them in place with blankets 
and girths, changing them every hour in extreme cases. (See cut 123). 
All treatment should be applied at the earliest stage possible. During 
recovery be very careful about the diet, giving first linseed-tea and well 
boiled gruels of oat, barlev or rye meal, following gradually with soft, warm 
mashes before the ordinary food is allowed. 




THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 575 

PILES. 

Piles are small tumors in the muscles forming the circumference of the 
anus, caused by swelling and enlargement of the veins, and are the result 
of constipation, unwise use of cathartics, heating food, insufficient work, and 
an obstruction of circulation which often arises from derangement of the liver. 

Symfito77ts. — Small, soft tumors at the outer extremity of the rectum, 
sometimes bleeding in efforts to pass dung; straining; occasionally protru- 
sion of the outer end of the rectum; sometimes constipation; symptoms of 
liver derangement; perhaps matter in the rectum. 

Treatment. — The bowels should be kept free, though not loose, and 
if there is a relaxed, paralytic condition of the rectum, accompanied by 
obstinate constipation, nux vomica will be found valuable, a dose being 
given night and morning. If the bowel protrudes, give podophyllin in 
small doses. Should there be much bleeding or inflammation, apply extract 
of hamamelis and inject a solution of equal parts of the same and water 
into the bowel. If the bowel protrudes and is swollen and very much 
inflamed, apply hot fomentations, and carefully return it after oiling well. 
An excellent application will be found in the ointment here given: 

Stramonium ointment, 3 ounces. 

Pulverized nut-galls, 1 drachm. 

Morphia sulphate, 10 grains. 
Mix. Apply warm, passing some into the bowel. 

CONCRETIONS. 

These are balls, usually in the large intestine, composed wholly of im- 
perfectly digested food mixed with mucous matter; or made by some hard 
substance which has been swallowed and acts as a nucleus in the stomach 
for the collection of undigested food. They vary much in size and obstruct 
the bowels. 

Symptoms. — Usually no inconvenience is shown, the balls passing out 
when small; when they become large, great constipation. 

Treatment. — If the presence of the balls is certainly known when 
they are small, a purge will remove them. Usually, however, this is not 
known until the balls have become so large as to stop the bowels. In this 
case treatment is of little avail, and the use of purgatives is very dangerous. 
Injections of soap and warm water may assist in the removal, as will also 
drenches of olive or linseed oil. To allay the pain, treat as directed for the 
spasmodic form of Colic, page 565. 



576 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

RUPTURE. 

This is a protrusion of a portion of some part of the intestine, or of the 
membrane attached to the stomach and lying next to the front part of the 
intestines, through a natural or artificial opening into some cavity. It is 
caused by drawing heavy loads, kicking, rearing, running, straining induced 
by colic, injuries resulting from a blow or kick, or hereditary tendency. 

Symptoms and Treatment. — When a soft tumor is found at the 
navel, consisting of a sac that is elastic or inelastic, according as it contains 
respectively intestine or the membrane mentioned above, bad effects seldom 
result, the horse recovering as he grows older. Should this increase in size, 
and be attended with colic, a surgical operation is required at the hands of 
a skillful practitioner. If there be a fluctuating tumor or sac in the belly, 
containing a portion of intestine, which can generally be pushed back into 
the abdomen, a cure may often be effected by so pushing back the intestine 
and applying a bandage carefully and securely, if this be done at first. 
Since this kind of rupture seldom does harm, excepting as it disfigures the 
horse, it is usually best to omit an operation. Sometimes, when the treat- 
ment just named will not effect a cure, the intestine may be pushed up, and 
a strong band put around the neck of the sac which contained it, and left 
thus until it drops off, which will be in three or four weeks; or the band 
may be replaced with another after the first week. In either case, wooden 
clamps must be tightly placed over the skin forming the sac. If it 
be found that the aperture through which the protrusion has taken place 
has contracted so that the intestine cannot be pushed back, a skillful practi- 
tioner may perform an operation. 

When the rupture is in the groin, the symptoms will be alternate as- 
cent and descent of the testicle on the side affected, with a final ascent ; cold 
sweats; constant colic, the horse often looking at the flank; perhaps attempts 
to vomit. In this case, the hand may be passed ur) the rectum and the in- 
testine liberated from its confinement, though this is better done by a sur- 
geon. When the intestine descends into the sac containing the testicles, it 
will disappear during rest, but reappear with exercise. Then the tumor 
grows larger gradually, and the aperture closes in, preventing the ascent of 
the intestine; there are dullness and indisposition to move; loathing of food; 
colic; constipation; rumbling of wind; in extreme cases, gangrene; cold 
sweats ; shivering, and death. This form of rupture may not injure a horse's 
usefulness, and should be treated only by successful practitioners, if at all. 

Owing to the liability to " constriction" and consequent inflammation 
and even gangrene, attention should be given to any case of rupture as soon 
as it is known to exist or is suspected. 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 

INTESTINAL WORMS. 



577 



Several species of worms are found in the intestines of the horse, among 
which may be named (i) the long white worm, from six to twelve inches 
long, resembling the common earth-worm; (2) the slender one, from two to 
four inches long; (3) the small, active, needle-like worm, found in great 
numbers in the large intestines and rectum, causing great irritation, and be- 
ing darker than those named above; (4) the tape- worm, white and jointed 
into regular sections; (5) the long threadworm. Two views are held re- 
garding the cause of worms. One is that they are injurious in themselves 
and wholly foreign to the animal's 
constitution. The other is that they 
are due to a derangement of the mu- 
cous membrane and its secretions, pSS^ttffM 
favorable to the growth of their 




126. Rubbing the Nose during the 
Presence of Worms. 




Picking the Hair when Worms are 
Present. 



germs. In support of the latter view it has been remarked that worms are 
seldom found in healthy horses, or at least not in large numbers, while in 
horses delicate or poorly fed they exist in great numbers. 

Symptoms, — Appetite at one time poor or wholly lost; at another vora- 
cious; low spirits; coat loses its gloss; the horse is hide-bound, licks the wall 
and cats dirt; dry, yellow or white matter about the anus, with itching, caus- 
ing the animal to rub his tail or switch it about; dung often covered with 
mucus; worms in the dung are the unmistakable symptom. 

Treatment. — Give salt in the food, and liquor arsenicalis, thirty drops 
three times a day. Or give one-fifth of a grain of arsenic night and morn- 
ing in a little bran-mash ; if it fails to effect a cure after two or three weeks, 
give five grains of sulphate of iron night and morning. In place of either 
of these courses, it may be well to give two powdered Croton beans in a 
handful of bran-mash, and a half-pint of linseed oil every morning. This 
has often been effectual. The Croton beans are also highly recommended 



578 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



for expelling the worms, previous to the administration of the arsenic or 
sulphate of iron. For tape-worm, if its presence is known, felix mas has 
been deemed the best remedy, a half ounce of the decoction of the male fern 
being given early in the morning and late at night. 

BOTS. 



These are often found in large numbers in the horse's stomach, to the coat 
of which they attach themselves firmly by two strong hooks. They appear to 
feed on the mucus of the stomach. A gadfly deposits eggs on some part of 
the bodv, which after a while produce itching, when the horse gnaws at 
them and so swallows them; or they may fall from the hair of the throat 
and breast into the feed. At this stage the larvae are very small, but in the 
stomach grow to the size of a 
small grub, when they let go, and, 
passing away in the dung, turn to 
a chrysalis, and finally to the gad- 
fly. It is a disputed question 
whether botsdo injury to the horse 

when they remain upon the coat ' mXfim h^Sk^F: 

of the stomach, some even claim- 
ing that they are in these cases a 
benefit. If however they pass 
into the intestines and attack the 
sensitive tissues, their ravages are 
very alarming, producing colicky 
pains and other evidences of in- I2S ' BoTS IN THE Stomach - 

testinal disorder. They may certainly be nearly if not quite harmless in a 
horse in ordinary health. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms which call for treatment are agonv of the 
horse, with inclinations to violent colicky attacks; general symptoms of 
indigestion or colic. 

Treatment. — Give mix vomica for the colicky pains and ensuing indi- 
gestion. The appearance of the bots in the dung, though an unmistakable 
evidence of their presence in the horse, does not call for treatment; indeed, 
this is the best evidence that none is needed and that thev are passing off in 
a natural way. When there is great agony, with colic-attacks, pour down 
the horse's throat a half-gallon or more of warm milk, or, still better, fresh 
warm blood. This is rich food and the bots leave the tissues to feed upon 
it. As soon as the agony is relieved, give a pint or even a quart of linseed 
or olive oil, which will bring away the liquid and the bots. It is useless to 




THE HORSE — THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 579 

try to kill the matured bots in the stomach, as they will resist the most 
"heroic" remedies. Means of prevention are the shaving off of the long 
hairs on the fore legs, throat, breast, or other parts where the eggs are de- 
posited so as to find their way to the mouth. Such parts may also be oiled. 
The proper use of cloths and branches fastened on these parts will prevent 
the depositing of the eggs. Tf any eggs are seen on the animal, they can be 
washed or rubbed off, thus keeping them out of the mouth. 

LOSS OF APPETITE. 

Loss of appetite often results from long-continued feeding on hay and 
oats, without change; from too much feeding; from insufficient or irregular 
work; from bad food and bad water; from a dirty stall; or it may be a 
symptom of some disease whose cure is the remedy for the lost appetite. 

Symptoms. — Nothing may be observable but an indisposition to eat for 
a long time, the horse tossing his food around; the mouth may be hot, tongue 
red, breath dry and offensive; sticky mucus in the mouth. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica four times daily is usually sufficient. If 
the mouth, tongue and breath be affected, use mercurius. For disordered 
stomach, marked by hot mouth, red tongue and offensive breath, together 
with lost appetite and diarrhoea, give arsenicum. A simple change of the 
food to mashes and roots will often restore the tone of the stomach and im- 
prove the appetite. When this fails and there is no such impediment to eat- 
ing as too long teeth or sore tongue, particularly if the horse is listless and 
the coat staring, one of the condition powders mentioned in the Materia 
Medica may be used. Give moderate exercise in the open air. 

INDIGESTION.— DYSPEPSIA. 

Acute dyspepsia or indigestion is caused by excessive feeding; rich 
food; hasty eating; copious drinks after meals; hot food; irritating plants. 
The chronic form results from insufficient or irregular work; badly-cured 
forage; a long continuance of the same kind of food without change; irregu- 
larity in times and quantity of feeding; rapid eating just before work; im- 
perfect mastication; badly- ventilated stables; improper treatment of some 
disease, as by too large doses of calomel or tartar emetic. 

Symptoms. — Tongue foul and coated; mouth slimy; changeable or 
corrupted appetite; unhealthy coat; sometimes ravenous eating, dirty litter 
and even dung being consumed; perhaps licking the whitewash on walls 
and manger, ending often in wind-sucking or crib-biting; or the appetite 
may be wholly lost; rapid loss of flesh; abdomen full or tucked up; weak- 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

aess; easy sweats; dung black and hard, or offensive and soft; urine thick, 
white, or high-colored; most of the grain is passed whole; frequently a 
short, hacking and irritating cough. 

When there is a capricious or vile appetite, with hard, dry cough, there 
is derangement of the nerves of the lungs and stomach (pneumogastric 
nerve). The capricious or ravenous appetite, with the dung passed in hard, 
small, black or clav-colored balls, being slimy and offensive, the mucous 
membranes being: of a vellow ting-e, indicates gastric derangement: in which 
case slight pains in the abdomen are felt, skin variable in temperature, ex- 
tremities cold and hot alternately, urine generally scanty and high-colored, 
though it may be paler than usual. If the horse becomes "pot-bellied" or 
dropsical, or loses flesh rapidly, or has dropsical swellings on different parts, 
the bowels being altematelv loose and constipated, the symptoms show de- 
rangement and enlargement of the glands in the folds of the intestines. 
Imperfect mastication is followed by hay rejected from the mouth partially 
chewed, grain passing whole, the animal being in a low condition and 
hide-bound, and these symptoms demand an examination of the teeth with 
a balling-iron. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica is especially demanded by capricious or 
depraved appetite, and is preferable to mercurial preparations when this 
appetite results from disease of the liver. Nux vomica is also needed when 
food passes undigested, or when the dung is hard, lumpy, or glazed with 
mucus; tongue slimy and furred; three to five drops of the tincture three 
or four times a day being suitable doses. Arsenicum is required in cases 
of long standing, with much weakness and loss of flesh, little appetite, fre- 
quent coughing after eating and drinking, dung soft, purging during work, 
skin scurfy and hide-bound. This drug in the form of iodide of arsenic is 
particularly valuable in cases induced by enlargement of the intestinal 
glands, with dropsical swellings of the chest, belly or legs. Antimonium 
crudum is superior for windy stomach, with pains, rough coat, thirst, and 
offensive dung, or when dreggy lumps are passed, and also for aversion to 
food. Ipecac is useful for nearly all forms of indigestion. Phosphorus or 
phosphoric acid is very useful for narrow-chested horses with consumptive 
tendency, and what is improperly called a " stomach cough " (reallv caused 
by irritation of the pneumogastric nerve), as it removes the cough and 
checks the diarrhoea. A few doses of cinchona, followed bv one or two 
of nux vomica, are desirable for horses weakened bv shedding the coat, 
which has induced indigestion and capricious appetite. Mercurius is desir- 
able when both liver and stomach are deranged, the skin and eves being 
yellowish. In chronic cases of indigestion marked by the general symp- 
toms which indicate nux vomica, a dose of sulphur may be profitably given 






THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 583 

every morning, "with nux vomica at night. For liquid and offensive dung 
and total loss of appetite, give pulsatilla. Ten to twenty grains of bismuth 
or sulphate of soda night and morning will be serviceable. 

In the way of general care, ascertain the cause of indigestion and re- 
move it if possible. For example, if the teeth are uneven or long, rasp 
them; if the food be bad, change it; give a variety of green food if dry 
grain has been fed; give oats only when crushed; feed often, but little at a 
time. When exercise has been Ions: neglected, give regular and moderate 
walking, avoiding quick work soon after feeding, and hard work altogether 
for a time. If the animal bolts the food at the beginning of the meal, give him 
a little hay to partially appease hunger, then follow with the oats, meal, 
bran, or whatever is to be given. Proper food and exercise are the essentials. 

CRIB-BITING AND WIND-SUCKING. 

These are caused by a disordered stomach, or they may be acquired by 
imitation; hence animals given to the practices should be separated from 
others, lest they afford a pernicious example. They reduce the condition 
of the horse and induce colic. After long indulgence the gullet is irregular 
in width, the abdomen swells, and wind in the stomach ensues. 

Symptoms. — Front teeth worn unnaturally by rubbing or pressing the 
edge of the teeth on a hard substance, as the manger; the teeth are fastened 
into the manger; the neck is curved, and air is sucked in and swallowed 
with a peculiar noise; such is called a crib-biter. The wind-sucker presses 
the lips, instead of the teeth, against the manger; the neck is curved; the 
feet brought together, and wind sucked in and swallowed. 

Treatment. — Straps, racks and muzzles are of little use; straps are 
liable to induce disorders of the air-passages which will end in roaring. 
Nails and sheet-iron put on the manger are apt to fail of their purpose, and 
will break the teeth. Aloes and coal-oil put on the manger have done some 
good. An effectual remedy is to remove the manger and whatever else the 
horse can fix his teeth or lips upon, and to feed him upon the ground. The 
simplest and most effective plan, however, is to put in a smooth, ha?'d roller 
for the edge of the manger, which will revolve easily from any attempt to 
fasten upon it with the teeth or lips, thus preventing the practice. Some 
form of muzzle may be put on that will make the act impossible. 

STOMACH STAGGERS. 

This disease is usually caused by overloading the stomach, especially 
after a considerable fast, and by quick feeding; dry hay or barley, mingled 



582 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



in the stomach with water; or excessive eating at a crib may be the cause. 
Any of these produce a swelling of the stomach, and lead to the disorder. 
Symptoms. — The horse stands listless, drooping, drowsy, unsteady, or 
staring vacantly and unwilling to move; presses hard against the wall or 
rests the chin on the manger; occasionally falls asleep with partially masti- 
cated food in the mouth; pulse full and slow; yellow mucous membranes; 
bowels constipated ; urine stops ; breathing deep and snoring ; if the disease 
increases, there ensues partial paralysis of the hind extremities; wild and 
staring eyes, or dilated pupil and insensibility to light; the animal walks 
around the stable, striking his head upon different objects; some tremors 
and sweats, with pain in the abdomen, or delirium; he stamps and looks at his 
sides; lies flat down, or sits on his haunches, not rolling or throwing him- 
self as in colic; or brain-symptoms may predominate, the pulse being full, 




Violence Sometimes Evinced in Stomach Staggers, but More Common in Mad Staggers. 



bounding and quickened; the horse raises the fore feet into the manger, 
falls back, blowing or snorting, and lies exhausted; rises, grows sleepy, the 
enlarged pupils of the eyes and wild expression giving place to drooping 
lids and hanging tongue and head, with staggering; then the furious man- 
ner recurs and, being repeated, is followed by death from ruptured stomach. 
These symptoms should be carefully observed, as some of them are attend- 
ant upon apoplexy and brain fever. One of these is indicated if the horse 
has not eaten heartily after a fast, has not been at the crib, or on rich pas- 
ture in a hot sun when he is in bad condition, has not had grain whole and 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 583 

unsoaked, has not been previously attacked, or if the disease is not prev- 
alent in the neighborhood. An explicit showing of the difference be- 
tween Stomach Staggers and Brain Fever (Mad Staggers) is given under 
the latter disease. Read also what is said upon Apoplexv. 

Treatment. — Give a drench of five drachms of horse-aloes and two 
drachms of carbonate of soda, dissolved in a pint of boiling water, to 
empty the stomach. Then treat the paralysis and brain-disorder with nux 
vomica and belladonna. When no delirium exists, nux vomica will suffice, 
given every two hours, beginning two hours after the drench of aloes. 
For symptoms of delirium, give belladonna every two hours in alternation 
with nux vomica. Should the cleansing of the stomach commence, alter- 
nate these remedies every two hours. Give all the water the horse wants, but 
withhold all food the first twenty-four hours, thereafter giving bran-mashes 
or thick gruel. Apply cold cloths to the head during treatment. 

PAIN IN THE STOMACH. 

This is indicated by symptoms similar to those of colic (which see), 
but the horse in stomach-pain puts his nose behind the left elbow-joint, 
the seat of the stomach; gas rises from the stomach, producing waves 
along the gullet like those caused by the passage of food or drink, though 
in the opposite direction. 

Treatment. — Give ten drops of antimonium crudum in a little flour 
every half-hour or hour until relief is given. A mild laxative may be 
given in the form of linseed oil or aloes. To quiet the pain, chloral 
hydrate or a hyperdermic injection of morphia may be used. Copious in- 
jections of hot water into the bowel will aid in giving relief. 

CHOKING. 

Bolting oats, swallowing potatoes, apples, carrots, medicinal balls, or 
even a whole egg, will cause choking ; it may also result from stricture of 
the gullet, which is mentioned below. 

Symptoms. — Refusal of food ; slobbering; water flows from the mouth 
in an attempt to drink; frequent efforts at swallowing, with spasmodic con- 
traction of the muscles of the neck ; occasionally a sharp noise indicating 
pain. When the difficulty is in the throat, slobbering, cough, quick 
breath, sweats and frequent retchings occur. When it is further down in the 
gullet, a swelling arises in the left side of the neck; when still lower down, 
violent retching after swallowing a fluid, with less violent choking. 



584 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 




High Choke— is Upper Part of Gullet. 



Treatment. — Linseed oil forced into or through the throat will usualiy 
remove the difficulty. If the choking is in the throat, open the mouth, 
draw the tongue far out and put the hand into the throat and remove the 
obstruction, the throat being rubbed or pressed at the same time to loosen 
it. If it is in the neck, rub and press the swollen part, and drench with 

tepid water until the horse 



swallows the substance, or 
throws it up in retching. In 
the failure of these expedients, 
or when the offending object 
is out of reach by other means, 
such a probang as is men- 
tioned under Stricture of the 
Gullet, or other like instru- 
ment, may be slowly and very 
gently pushed along the gut- 
ter of the roof of the mouth 
until the obstruction is reached, 

and pressure be then gently applied to force it into the stomach. Such an 

operation is a delicate one, and should not be resorted to unless it is cer- 
tainly known that the obstructing body has passed below the opening into 

the windpipe. The instrument is to be perfectly smooth and always well 

oiled before it is used. 

When the choking persists, gag the animal by passing between the 

jaws a smooth roller of wood, drawing it well up between the teeth, and 

securing it thus by cords 

attached to the projecting 

ends and reaching up over 

the head. This prevents 

swelling of the abdomen, 

and the obstruction will 

probably soon pass down 

into the stomach. When 

using the probang, if the 

clogging is stubborn, it is 

well to stop the pressure, 

gag the animal as here 

directed, and then apply 

the probang again after a brief interval. If meal, bran and other fine food, 

or even oats, be fed, they will only become packed closely in the gullet, or 

oesophagus, after remaining a short time, and make the case worse. It is 




Low Choke— in Lower Part of Gullet. 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 585 

always best in this kind of choking to pour down well-cooked gruel or 
water to break up the mass and carry it into the stomach a little at a time. 
The last resort is the opening of the gullet by a surgeon. After the 
removal of the object, and the stitching of the wound, no solid food should 
be given for some time. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH AND TONGUE. 

This is caused by bruises from severe bits; biting of the tongue; lick- 
ing irritating substances; improper administration of medicines, such as 
turpentine and ammonia; injuries from giving balls; teething; irregular or 
decayed teeth. 

Symptoms. — Mouth red, painful and swollen; much fever; free dis- 
charge of mucus; peeling off of the mucous membrane of the mouth, 
followed by new sores, ulceration, and perhaps gangrene; the tongue 
sometimes hangs out, possibly with formation of matter, or it may remain 
stiff, hard and enlarged; difficult swallowing; obstructed respiration, with 
threatened choking; perhaps suppuration. 

Treatment. — Should any feverish symptoms be present, give aconite 
every four hours. When local inflammation alone exists, give belladonna. 
When, after the inflammation has remained some time, the tongue is swol- 
len and hard, and salivation continues, administer mercurius corrosivus. 
When the inflammation has been caused by injuries, arnica may be given 
internally, and a lotion of the same may also be applied to the wound. 
Arsenicum is valuable when gangrene is threatened or the discharge is 
offensive. In cases threatened with gangrene, or attended with an offen- 
sive discharge from the mouth, a wash should be used composed of two 
dessert-spoonfuls of Condy's Fluid and a half-pint of water. When this 
difficulty is a simple inflammation from deranged digestion or other causes, 
wash the mouth frequently with cool astringent agencies, as vinegar and 
water, alum, tannin, tincture of myrrh, or a very weak solution of carbolic 
acid, ten drops to a pint of water. Sometimes the tongue becomes so 
much swollen as to threaten suffocation, and matter also forms in it. In 
these cases a cutting or scarifying of the tongue becomes necessary, fol- 
lowed by washing the mouth four or five times a day with a lotion com- 
posed of one ounce of calendula and twelve ounces of water. As food, 
give oatmeal- gruel or linseed-tea, by drenches if necessary. Give all the 
cold water the animal wants. Should ulcerations " gather" or point, 
lance them. On examination of the list of causes one will readily infer that 
irritating drugs are to be given with care, the teeth to be watched, and the 
food carefully regulated. 




5S6 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

APHTHA OR THRUSH IN THE MOUTH. 

This is less frequent in the horse than in other animals. It is an in- 
flammation of the tongue or mucous membrane of the mouth, consisting 
of a pimply eruption which terminates in white scabs or dead skin. 
Though usually constitutional, it may result from a chemical process, or 
from a mechanical one, such as pressure. 

Symptoms. — Clusters of white vesicles on the tongue, especially the 
sides and tip, and on the inside of the cheeks and lips ; increased flow of 
saliva; difficult feeding; vesicles burst; small ulcers take 
place; the scaly covering of the tongue peels off, leav- 
ing a raw surface, which prevents eating ; sometimes 
strangles occur with this disease. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius three times a day, 
dry on the tongue. Should the mercurius not remove 
the disorder in two days, or if unmistakable signs of 
derangement of the stomach be present, give nux 
vomica three or four times a day. Arsenicum and sul- 
phur are useful for ulcerations of the lips and nose. As 

i 3 2. Aphthous Mouth. & ^^ remedy? Qne dessert-spoonf ul of Condy's Fluid ill 

eight ounces of water will cleanse the mouth. A solution of bi-sulphite 
of soda, or of borax, will also be a good wash. 

CARIES OR ULCERATION OF THE JAW. 

The use of the high bit and tight nose-band causes laceration of the 
palate, followed by unhealthy sores which extend to the bone and end in 
ulceration. Between the tushes and molars of the lower jaw a like injury 
may also be produced by a long check-bit and tight curb. 

Symptoms. — Slobbering, often offensive and bloody; inability to eat 
hard food, which is thrown from the mouth during mastication; ragged 
wound in the mouth, with granulations at the bottom or on the sides; the 
probe easily finds the bone; sometimes mortification. 

Treatment. — For a sloughing wound, with dingy-colored base and 
unhealthy granulations, touch the bottom of the wound and the granula- 
tions once a day with some mild caustic, as nitrate of silver, until the 
wound becomes of a healthy appearance, when treatment should cease. 
Give green food, if possible, not using a bit until the wound is healed. The 
reckless use of severe curbs and check- bits deserves the highest censure. 
The substitution of more grateful ones, and the proper change in the nose- 
band will prevent many cases. 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 587 

CARIES OR ULCERATION OF THE TEETH. 

This is a result of some disease of the teeth, and produces a half-bone, 
half-cartilage growth on the cellular structure of the jaw, which can be 
remedied only by cutting it off. It is generally a corruption of the 
dentine and enamel and may originate at the fang, when the inside pulp is 
destroyed, and hence the tooth dies. If it attacks the last three upper 
molars, it extends to the maxillary cavities and nasal chambers, producing 
a discharge similar to that in glanders. Should an abscess break on the 
surface, fistula of the face occurs, and should be treated as directed under 
the section on that disease. Ulceration of the teeth may result from 
strangles and catarrh when the nasal discharge has been free for a long 
time. Hot food or large doses of mercury may cause it. Usually, how- 
ever, there is an unknown cause acting through the nerves and blood-ves- 
sels of the center of the tooth. 

Symptoms. — If the tooth aches, the horse rests one side of the head 
on the manger and refuses food ; swollen cheek and increased flow of saliva. 
In other cases, the horse " quids " hay or corn, 
and drops it, or bolts corn, so that it is whole in 
the dung; offensive breath ; if the maxillary cavi- 
ties are diseased, a discharge of pus and mucus 
flow from the nostril on the side affected — from 
both if both sides are diseased ; the glands under 
the jaw are swollen as in glanders; eye some- 
times irritated ; the horse loses flesh and becomes 
hide-bound; the balling-iron shows a black spot I33> sign of Caries and tooth- 
or cavity in the tooth, with collections of decom- ache. 

posed and very offensive food; gums sometimes inflamed and swollen. 

Treatment. — This consists mainly in the removal of the diseased 
tooth by a skillful operator. If the jaw be diseased, it should be cleansed 
daily with carbolated water. Apply tincture of myrrh to the gums. 

IRREGULAR GROWTH OF THE TEETH. 

The grinding surface sometimes becomes sharp and uneven, causing 
serious injury to the tongue, cheek or palate, and occasionally a disorder in 
the upper jaw, with symptoms similar to those in ulceration of the teeth. 
One of the most common forms is the projection of one of the incisors out- 
ward ( " buck-tooth " ) ; while an extra tooth appears sometimes in front of 
the molars ( " wolf-tooth " ). 

Treatment. — Rasp the teeth or cut off the projecting parts. Some- 




588 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

times remove the irregular tooth. These steps should be taken by a 
skillful operator with special instruments, never be knocked out with a punch. 

LAMP AS. 

Lampas is a disorder occurring especially among young horses, and 
consisting in inflammation and swelling of the front part of the palate, 
causing it to descend as low as the front teeth, or below them. It results 
from teething or derangement of the stomach, usually preventing the horse 
from eating. 

Treatment. — Xo treatment, as a rule, is necessary except that the 
horse be given bran and other soft food for a few days, and the mouth be 
occasionallv washed with a solution made of a teaspoonful of alum and a 
half-pint of water. For derangement of the stomach, nux vomica is often 
useful. Mercurius is also beneficial. Scarifying is unnecessary, but it is 
best to apply some soothing wash, as one of tincture of myrrh. Give lin- 
seed-tea, gruel and bran-mashes, but no hay, until recovery ensues. 

SALIVATION.— '- SLOBBERS." 

Salivation, or undue flow of saliva, is caused bv eating certain kinds of 
green food; administering mercury, whether bv the nose or mouth, or by 
friction on the skin; inflammation of the mouth and salivary glands. It 
has sometimes occurred when it could be attributed only to some derange- 
ment of the nerves supplying the salivary gland. It is indicated by an un- 
usual flow of saliva, with or without offensive breath, and with or without 
sore mouth. When the administration of mercury is the cause, the teeth 
may be loose, the gums ulcerate, and general disorder of the stomach and 
bowels set in. 

Treatment. — When the cause is green food, change the feed and 
give a few drops of nitric acid or mercurius night and morning; if caused 
by mercury, give nitric acid, iodine, and iodide or chlorate of potassium. 
When traceable to nervous derangement, and not to mercury, give arseni- 
cum every four or five hours. In persistent cases, try chlorate or iodide 
potassa, rubbing iodine ointment over the glands, under the ears and be- 
tween the jaws. A wash of hydrastia and water (one part of fluid hydras- 
tia to ten of water), or an infusion of butternut-bark will restore the in- 
tegrity of the gums and lessen the flow of saliva. " Slobbers " which 
arises from feeding on low clover pasturage is often very disagreeable to 
the rider or driver, and he may give temporary relief by feeding a pint of 
dry bran, but a cure comes only by a change of pasture. 



THE HORSE THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM, 



589 



SALIVARY CALCULI. 



These are masses usually composed of phosphate and carbonate of 
lime mingled with animal matter, which form in the glands that pass over 
the margin of the jaw below the ear, or in the glands beneath these, or in 
those which are under the tongue. A 
grain of oats, barley or wheat may have 
lodged in the duct, and have formed the 
nucleus of a calculus. 

Symptoms. — Enlargement of the ducts 
which lead from the glands, due to accumu- 
lations of saliva which the obstruction pre- 
vents from passing out; matter may form 
and burst out ; chewing and swallowing are 
more or less impeded. 

Treatment. — A skillful operator may 
remove the calculus by surgical means, 
bring the lips of the cut together, and sew 
and plaster it evenly. If this be poorly 
done, salivary fistula (see below) will prob- 
ably ensue. If the calculus forms at the mouth of the duct, the duct may 
be expanded and the obstruction be removed with forceps. In mild cases a 
cure may be effected by pushing the calculus into the mouth by manipula- 
tions along the outside, over the obstructed part of the duct. 




134. Seat of Salivary Calculus and 

Fistula. 

a, Salivary Gland, b, Duct, in which 
Calculi form, c, d, e, f, g, Muscles of 
Mastication. 



SALIVARY FISTULA. 



This is a tube-like sore which opens into the salivary gland at a point 
where the latter passes over the angle of the jaw. It is caused by some 
obstruction in the gland, or by a wound, and if neglected is difficult to cure. 

Symptoms. — Discharge of clear, limpid saliva from the sore, especially 
when the animal is chewing; impairment of digestion and general health. 

Treatment. — Keep the head elevated, tying the halter to both sides 
of the stall to prevent rubbing of the sore. Give gruel and soft food, put- 
ting the meals and drinks at long intervals, and allowing no oats, whole 
grain, or hay. Wash the w T ound frequently with a solution of one part of 
calendula to ten of water. If the fistula is of recent development, shave 
the edges of the sore, bring the lips evenly together, and apply enough 
layers of collodion to make a fastening sufficiently strong to prevent the 
bursting out of the secretions. Sometimes a blister over the opening is 
advisable. It may be necessary to close the opening with sutures of cat- 



590 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

gut or other material. The natural opening of the gland into the 
mouth should be kept open, and thorough cleanliness of the mouth will 
assist in keeping it so. Mastication tends to retard the cure. 

PROTRUSION OF THE TONGUE. 

Hanging or protrusion of the tongue is an indication of paralysis, 
wounds or injuries to the tongue, or weakness and lengthening of the mus- 
cles which control it. Paralysis of the lips sometimes attends it, the lip 
then hanging down, with slobbering and difficulty in picking up food. 

Treatment. — Many times a faulty bit is the cause, and a change in 
it will relieve the trouble. When paralysis is the occasion of the disorder, 
the best results will be obtained by giving strychnia, one-hundredth of a 
grain three times a day. Plumbum will help some cases. Electricity ap- 
plied to the nerves may stimulate them to action and thus afford relief. A 
piece of the tongue is often cut off to prevent injury, but that is seldom 
necessary if the treatment here noted be observed with precision. 

STRICTURE OR CONTRACTION OF THE GULLET. 

This may be caused by the lodging of some food in the neck, or may 
occur near the stomach when only the introduction of a suitable instrument 
into the gullet, through the mouth, can afford relief. It is caused by a 
mechanical or chemical injury, by thickening of an inflamed mucous 
membrane, and by cancer. 

Symptoms. — Difficulty in swallowing, with expulsion of food from the 
nostrils; quidding of hay and throwing it from the mouth; sharp appetite, 
with inability to gratify it; loss of spirits and condition. 

Treatment. — Prepare three probangs, long, smooth and slender, of 
different sizes, made of gutta-percha, with an ivory knob on the end to pre- 
vent injury to the membrane. Oil these well and use them every day, apply- 
ing the first (about the size of the little finger) until it passes down freely; 
then the second (slightly larger), until its passage is easy, when the third size 
may be used. It is a delicate operation and can safely be performed only 
with the closest care. Give soft, nutritious food, but no dry hay or grain. 




CHAPTER IV. 

THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 

PALPITATION.— THUMPS. 

SjfHIS is an unhealthy increase in the heart's action, found in horses 
that are feeble, or that are subjected to severe or straining exercise, 
as running or drawing heavy loads up hill. We recognize two 
*t§?) forms and give them separate treatment. 

The First Form. — Poor blood is the cause of this form. Its symp- 
toms are a dull, thumping sound in the breast, being heard at a distance of 
several yards in extreme cases, corresponding to the pulse and heart-beats; 
troubled breathing; increased temperature of the body; red mucous mem- 
branes ; the ear placed to the heart detects "blood-sounds" about the heart, 
veins and arteries, made by the blood passing through the channels of the 
heart, and making a continuous hum ; sometimes shaking or jerking of the 
whole body. 

Treatment of the First Form. — Give stimulants and tonics with 
mild exercise. Aconite should be given every half-hour when the cause is 
violent exercise, and the breathing is rapid. It may be beneficially alter- 
nated with nux vomica. Arsenicum is desirable when the disorder attacks 
horses that are in fair condition, and when it manifests itself especially at 
night. The tincture of Peruvian bark will relieve the constitutional weak- 
ness, a teaspoonful or less being given three or four times a day. Nux 
vomica is recommended for palpitation induced by indigestion. Asafcetida 
is useful for the form which results from excessive physical motion, with an 
intermittent pulse. Digitalis should be given if there be oppressed breath- 
ing and great distress, half a teaspoonful of tincture at a dose. Give bella- 
donna for palpitation during rest and increasing with motion; intermitting 
pulse; and for trembling heart, with great distress. For horses with palpita- 
tion which have been subject to rheumatism, spigelia is one of the most 
valuable medicines, twenty drops being given three times a day. Give 
moderate, nourishing diet; perfect rest for a few days after an attack, and only 
light work thereafter for several weeks; fresh air; freedom from draughts. 

(59i) 



592 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



The Second Form. — This is often improperly called spasm of the dia- 
phragm, which is really hiccough and is elsewhere considered. The second 
form of palpitation, also called "thumps," is caused by excessive action of the 
heart incident to a hard or exciting run, which causes a jerking of the whole 
body as the heart strikes the region toward the upper part of the false ribs. 
The symptoms of the first form of palpitation, as noted above, attend this, 
together with a violent raising of the flanks which proves unpleasant to a 
rider. The symptoms come and go suddenly. As an aid in distinguishing 
this form of palpitation from true spasm of the diaphragm, or hiccough, the 
reader is referred to the subjoined parallel tables of symptoms. 



PALPITATIOX OR THUMPS. 

Hiccough is seldom present. 

The action of the abdominal muscles is 
increased, and the heaving of the flanks is 
quite A-isible. 

The flanks are tucked-up. 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

Hiccough is ahuays present. 

The action of the abdominal muscles at 
the flank is imperceptible. 

There is great fullness in the flanks from 
the abdominal viscera being pushed back- 
ward. 



Treatment. — Digitalis is valuable for great irregularity of the heart's 
action, inability to lie down or walk, and much distress, a half-teaspoonful 
to a teaspoonful two or three times a day being suitable as the dose. 
Stannum has alone cured this form of palpitation. Observe the same gen- 
eral care as was outlined above for the first form. 

DROPSY OF THE HEART. 



This is the result of an inflammation of the serous membrane which 
envelops the heart as a sac, causing serous fluid to be deposited within this 
membrane in unnaturally large quantities. It may result from exposure to 
cold, damp, changes of temperature; from those conditions which produce 
acute diseases of the breathing organs; from changes to a hot stable from 
the field; from a sudden transition from poor to rich and heating food. It 
however generally comes along with influenza, rheumatism or pleurisy. 

Symptoms. — These are easily confounded with those of pleurisv. The 
horse stands still, with anxious face and lowered head, showing signs of 
great pain; fixed eyes; extended nostrils; pulse ioo to 120, wirv, j^erhaps 
irregular or intermittent; great fever; breathing 30 to 40 per minute, diffi- 
cult, with complicated movement of flanks, much like that in broken wind; 
in early stages pressure in the region of the heart causes flinching and signs 
of pain; the ear placed in the same region perhaps detects friction-sounds» 




THE HORSE THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 593 

before the serous matter has accumulated, not heard after that effusion; when 
these friction-sounds cease the heart-beats are muffled ; later still, the effu- 
sion increasing, the impulse of the heart is not well defined, but is a flutter 
in uncertain beats, giving a peculiar pulsation to the hand ; breathing grows 
more distressing;; movement aggravates the 
pain; pulse feebler, being even imperceptible ^1|1| 
at the jaw; legs and ears cold; chest, abdomen, 
legs, and other parts dropsical; death soon 
ensues. In some of the more advanced stages, 
striking upon the parts near the heart produces 
a dull sound near that organ, but does not dis- 
turb the bronchial and respiratory sounds, 
which are affected in hydrothorax, or water in I3S . General symptom of heIrt 
the chest. In pleurisy, the frictional sounds Disease. 

occur during the respiratory movements of the lungs; in dropsy of the 
heart, during the beats of the heart. The reader should be very careful to 
take note of these distinguishing symptoms. 

Treatment. — During the inflammatory stage, when the sound of the 
heart is lessened, with strong, regular impulse, and hard, strong and quick 
pulse, give aconite every two hours; or alternate it with bryonia, especially 
in complications with rheumatism. For irregular or intermittent action of 
the heart, give ten to twenty drops of digitalis every four hours; and when 
the disorder follows or accompanies rheumatism (in which case the beats are" 
usually jerking), alternate digitalis with colchicum. Give arsenicum or apis 
in the second stage, when the serous matter has distended the sac which 
envelops the heart, particularly if dropsical swellings exist in other parts. 
Acetate of potassa will induce free action of the kidneys and lessen the 
tendency to dropsy, and a teaspoonful may be given much diluted with 
water. In extreme cases, and when the collection of fluid is great, it may 
be drawn off with a trocar or an aspirating needle, as in hydrothorax or 
dropsy of the chest, the puncture being made by a skillful hand between the 
fifth and sixth ribs. Hot fomentations applied to the chest will tend to allay 
the inflammation. Mustard and flaxseed poultices will also be of service. 
Keep the surface of the body warm, and bandage and hand-rub the legs. 
Blood-letting is highly injurious in this disorder, as in most others. 

ENDOCARDITIS.— INFLAMMATION OF THE HEART. 

This is a very frequent complication of rheumatism, or may result from 
an undue strain in severe work, is dangerous, and may lead to many serious 
disorders of the heart. 

38 



594 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Symptoms. — The heart contracts energetically with vibrations, and 
often irregularly; pulse irregular, frequently intermittent, and is feeble, in 
striking contrast with the violent beats of the heart ; a bellows-sound or saw- 
ing noise. In early stages the breathing is not so difficult as in dropsy of 
the heart, but may grow very distressing if the valves of the heart become 
thickened; legs generally cold; the membrane is thickened, wholly or in 
part, sometimes resulting in a polypus of great size. 

Treatment. — For the primary symptoms aconite is the best remedy, 
especially in rheumatic forms, and if given in time may effect a favorable 
termination in many cases. It is desirable for palpitation and irregular action 
of the heart and for difficult breathing. Give it every hour. Give arseni- 
cura and digitalis in alternation, four or five doses of each in twenty-four 
hours, if the pulse becomes feeble and intermittent. Most cases have their 
origin in a rheumatic condition which calls for colchicum and iodide of 
potassa. After the inflammatory symptoms have subsided the following 
prescription will be found of value : 

Wine of colchicum seeds, i ounce. 

Iodide of potassa, i^ ounce. 

Digitalis tincture, i ounce. 

Water, i pint. 

Mix. Give a half- wineglassful three or four times a day. 

ENLARGEMENT OR HYPERTROPHY OF THE HEART. 

This is a thickening of a part, less frequently the whole, of the walls 
of the heart. It is often found in broken-winded horses. Some of the 
causes are contraction of the vessels and the openings of the cavities of the 
heart, or deposits on the valves which lead to excessive action of the heart 
to overcome the obstructions, thus enlarging the muscles of the heart's 
walls; tumor in the aorta, or pulmonary artery; exhaustion from excessive 
exertion, especiall} r from arduous labor with full stomachs. It also results 
from other diseases, especially affections of the lungs. 

Sympto7ns. — The movement of the heart becomes and continues strong 
and impulsive, with an intense sound and loud, thumping, hollow beat; irreg- 
ularity of heart-action; dull sound on striking a part near the heart; pal- 
pitation comes on from quick work, accompanied with an anxious look of 
the eye; cold ears and legs; dizziness; difficult breathing; languor; loss of 
appetite; in late stages, dropsical swellings on the chest, abdomen and legs. 

Treatment. — This is incurable, but the life of the horse may be ex- 
tended for years, even to old age. Yet this end can be attained only by 



THE HORSE THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 595 

proper care. Medicines can be of little avail in correcting the essential 
nature of the ailment, but digitalis may be found serviceable in reducing 
irregular movements of the heart. Give simple but not stimulating food in 
small quantities, and impose only light and slow work, particularly in as- 
cending a hill or any grade. Avoid excitement when possible. 

DILATATION OF THE HEART. 

Dilatation signifies an enlargement of one or more of the cavities of the 
heart. Its causes are a defect of the valves by which the blood is allowed 
to flow back and distend the walls ; loss of nervous power ; certain types of 
fever which weaken the muscular fibers. 

Symptoms. — The heart's action is feeble and tremulous; pulse weak, 
soft and small; poor appetite; languor; dizziness; difficult breathing; ears 
and legs cold; finally dropsical swelling of the legs, belly and chest. It 
may exist with enlargement of the heart (see last disease), or with wasting 
of the heart (see the disease next considered). 

Treatment. — This disorder can not be cured, but relief may be given 
by using arsenicum three times a day, and insuring an easy, quiet life. 

WASTING OR ATROPHY OF THE HEART. 

This is an emaciation of the walls of the heart from causes similar to 
those producing dilatation. 

Symptoms. — Feeble impulse of the heart, an unusually loud sound 
being detected by applying the ear to the chest; pulse feeble, slow and in- 
termittent; the veins of the neck pulsate; dullness; fastidious appetite; legs 
cold; dropsical swellings on the limbs, belly and chest; difficult breathing 
on the slightest exercise; sometimes palpitation or fluttering of the heart. 

Treatment. — Arsenicum three times a day will afford a partial re- 
lief, though no known remedy is of permanent avail. Insure ease and quiet. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE VEINS. 

This is rare, excepting in case of some injury, as that caused by care- 
less bleeding, especially with rusty instruments. 

Symptoms. — The incision for bleeding or other purpose is surrounded 
by a swelling, small at first but increasing, hot and painful; the lips of the 
wound separate, the wound itself being red and moistened with a burning, 
very irritable, pussy substance; matter may form externally and the dis- 
order soon pass away. Usually, however, the swelling increases; the vein 



596 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

above the inflammation is hard, hot and cord-like ; the salivary gland is 
much enlarged, most likely leading to the obliteration of the vein ; if blood 
begins to flow from the vein, it will be difficult to stop it; the vein being 
lost, the circulation is disturbed, especially when the head is down, as in 
grazing; if ulceration be present, internal abscesses form with fatal results. 
Fever will exist in most cases. 

Treatment. — 'Give aconite for general feverish condition; dry, hot 
skin; full pulse; local inflammation. Belladonna is demanded for redness 
of the mucous membranes, sunken eyes with enlarged pupils. Give hepar 
if there be a pussy discharge from the wound, swelling of the glands with 
threatened abscesses, and for early stages of the formation of pus. Hama- 
melis, used externally on the wound as well as taken internally, is very de- 
sirable, and may be applied externally when any other remedy is adminis- 
tered. Give the horse quietness and rest. Apply hot fomentations freely. 
Tie the horse so the head can not hang down. Remove all hair, dirt and 
pus that may form about the wound. Let the diet be composed mainly of 
bran-mashes, avoiding hay and other articles that require mastication. 

SWOLLEN OR VARICOSE VEINS. 

A morbid enlargement of a vein, with a knotty, unequal swelling, 
may render the valves useless, and thus retard the flow of blood back to the 
heart. Tt usually affects the vein that passes over the inner surface of the 
hock-joint, though it may form in other veins. It is caused by violent 
strains, in drawing and otherwise; inflammation from a prick in shoeing; 
often by frequent blood-letting. 

Symptoms. — The affected veins are crooked, knotted, enlarged, and 
divided into separate pouches or sacs; if the disorder be at the hock-joint, 
there will be a tumor, increasing in size, soft, hanging slightly, and shaking 
when the horse 'walks, becoming full and tense by pressure on the vein 
above it, and giving out a discharge by pressure carried upward from below. 
The knotted or swollen condition of the affected vein will be worse during 
standing, working, and the like. 

Treatment. — There is little chance of a permanent cure. A half- 
teaspoonful of hamamelis two or three times a day should be given, and 
applications of the same remedy be applied externally as often or oftener 
in the form of compresses secured by bandages. Rhus is an excellent 
remedy for both internal and external use. Have the animal lie down as 
much as practicable, standing being even more unfavorable than walking. 
Moderately tight bandages over the hock may be serviceable, and should be 
worn continuously until the vein has been obliterated. 



THE HORSE THE ORGANS OF CIRCULATION. 597 

ANEURISM. 

This is a tumor formed by the swelling of aa artery. At first it pul- 
sates and contains fluid blood; later it is filled with coagulated blood. As 
it grows old, the artery may burst. The posterior aorta, at the beginning 
of the front mesenteric artery, is very subject to aneurism as the horse grows 
older. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms are so obscure and so similar to those in 
other diseases that it is difficult to tell when they are a result of this dis- 
order. They come suddenly; the horse is dejected, unable to work, and 
thin; breathing quickened; irregular pulse and heart-beats; tenderness at 
the loins; stiffness in turning; swelling and cramps in the legs; paralysis. 

Treatment. — If the presence of an aneurism can be known, digitalis 
may be useful, but the only course of any promise is to promote the gen- 
eral health, lower the diet and work, and insure general quiet. 

ENLARGEMENT OF AN ARTERY. 

Enlargement and clogging of an artery, known as "embolism," result 
from coagulated lymph, clots of fiber, pieces of diseased tissue, the elements 
of cancer or tubercle which are brought to the artery from the circulation 
and prevent the flow of blood from the artery to the limbs. Enlargement 
may also result from inflammation set up by parasites in the blood or in 
wounds. 

Symptoms. — These, as in aneurism, are obscure, and it is difficult to 
determine from them whether an embolism is present or not. They are, 
great pain; quick, wiry pulse; anxious look; free sweats; cold extremities; 
local tremors; stiffness and contraction of certain muscles; the horse looks 
around toward the affected part; temporary paralysis of the affected limb 
or some of its muscles, followed by partial recovery and a similar attack of 
the other limb; return of the attack to the limb first affected; diminished 
pulse of the arteries in the limb involved ; peculiar throbbing, felt through 
the rectum, in the posterior aorta; partial or complete paralysis of the hind 
limbs, or the hind quarters entire; finally death. 

Treatment. — Treatment avails nothing, except it be careful guarding 
of the general health ; cures can be effected only by nature. Aconite is the sole 
remedy which is even likely to give relief. Give perfect rest and apply 
warm fomentations to the affected part, if it can be located. If the case is 
persistent, several months may elapse before even a limited cure will ensue, 
during which time the animal should be kept in a yard where he will get 
gentle exercise and be well fed, so as to restore normal circulation. 



CHAPTER V. 
THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 

COUGH. 

«-^^ OUGH has so many form-, and is so frequent a symptom that a de- 
ii-i^-' tailed study of it is very important, to determine its seat and cause. 
J. 'X I It is caused by inflammation of some part of the membrane lining 
*FT- the lungs and air-passages: teething; organic trouble in the viscera 
of the chest; nervous disorder; foreign substance in the breathing-apparatus, 
and the like. It may be acute, then being usually a symptom of catarrh, 
bronchitis, pneumonia, or other similar affection, and disappearing with the 
disease which causes it; or it may be chronic, as a result of some form of 
the acute, or as originally a simple cough, and is less easily cured than the 
acute. The following are the principal kinds of cough with their symptoms, 
condensed in the main from the "Veterinary Vade Afecum:* — 

I. (a.) From teething : Loud, ringing and clear, mainly in the morn- 
ing and at night, met with in horses four and five years of age, probably 
dependent upon nervous irritation from cutting of the tushes; mouth hot; 
bars of palate full, as in lampas; tenderness in eating grain; general health 
seemingly good, as well as the spirits, ib.) If the cough results from the 
pharynx, fauces, and glands near them, it is moist, heavy-sounding, long, 
and apparently hanging in the throat; at first it may be dry and short, but 
a change soon comes on from a return of the secretion in increased quanti- 
ties, ic. ) If the cough arises from the membrane lining the larynx, it is 
fitful, and may easily be produced by pressing on the top of the windpipe; 
when resulting from the laryngeal membrane, the cough is hard, and has a 
metallic, ringing sound, followed by a long, harsh catching of breath, pro- 
ducing a noise akin to that of a roarer when on the canter; when resulting 
from disorder of the recurrent nerve, it is dry, loud, and spasmodic, often 
chronic, becoming loose and less painful upon the return of the secretion. 
id.) If the cough results from an increase in the secretion of the membrane 
lining the zuiyidpipe, it will be long and moist, though frequent, sometimes 
with a thick, white discharge from the nose or mouth. On the other hand, 

598 



THE HORSE THE ORGA-NS OF CIRCULATION. 599 

if the membrane of the windpipe be dry, the cough will be dry, and the 
ear, applied to the windpipe, will detect a cooing, deep sound, instead of the 
moist, rattling sound mentioned under (c). (<?.) The bronchial cough is at 
first short, dry, hard, and frequent, but grows moist, muffled, feeble and 
prolonged upon the return of secretion. Arising from dryness and inflam- 
mation of the large bronchial tubes, it produces a cooing sound, audible to 
the ear placed at the root of the windpipe in front of the chest. Should the 
small bronchial tubes be similarly affected, the ear put upon the sides of 
the chest will notice a shrill or dry hissing rattle. When the secretion re- 
turns, a fluid rattle is heard, with decreased or suppressed breathing mur- 
mur, until the cough removes the secretion, (y.) Pulmonary cough, re- 
sulting from inflammation in the substance of the lung, is short, dry, and 
frequent; accompanied by difficult breathing and increased by striking on 
the sides of the thorax. As the disease advances, this cough becomes more 
constrained and painful, or ceases altogether, (g-) The asthmatic or 
broken-wind cough is short, more like a grunt than a cough, and so feeble 
that it cannot be heard at any distance. It is frequently accompanied by a 
wheezing noise in the throat, and by jerking, irregular or double movement 
of the flanks in expelling the breath, (h.) The consumptive cough is 
short and feeble, and may be known by an absence of murmur in circum- 
scribed spots of either lung, with increased bronchial respiration, cavernous 
or foamy rattles. (/. ) The pleuritic cough is painful, and hangs in the 
chest from the endeavor of the animal to suppress it. 

II. Chronic cough is that which continues months or years without 
vitally damaging the general health, and may result from previous disease, 
or may from the first be simple, resulting from nervous derangement. It is 
of three kinds, namely : The hollow, groaning cough ; the loud, dry, 
spasmodic cough ; the short, feeble, hacking, grunting cough. These are 
here described, (a.) The hollow cough apparently comes from the inmost 
parts of the body, follows a noise made up of a half-groan and half-cough, 
and comes on morning and night; it probably results from derangement of 
the nerve lining the stomach and lungs, though it often arises from a con- 
solidation of a part of the lung, attended with bronchial respiration in the 
other parts. (£.) The loud, dry, spasmodic cough, increased by eating and 
drinking, seems to depend upon an irritability of the membrane lining the 
larnyx in an animal just brought from the stable, or upon disorder of the 
recurrent nerve, (c.) The short, hacking, grunting cough is similar to 
that of a horse with broken-wind, the breathing however, being even; it 
usually depends upon loss of nervous power, though it may arise from 
some obstruction of the air-passages by a deposition of lymph. Such a 
cough is likewise heard in rupture of the diaphragm. 



600 COMPEXDIl^VI OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Aconite may be used for all coughs with inflammation, 
either of the mucous membrane lining the air-passages or of the sub- 
stance of the lungs. In inflammation of the membrane of the air-passages the 
membrane is dry. When the lung-substance is affected, the pulse is strong 
and quickened, and the breathing murmur diminished, with a sawing kind 
of sound, called bronchial respiration. In such cases the cough is dry, 
short and frequent. As soon as secretion returns to the mucous membrane, 
or the pulse becomes small and feeble, aconite should be left off, or alter- 
nated with some remedy adapted to the nature and location of the disease 
on which the cough depends, and of which it is a symptom. Give bella- 
donna when the cough is short, dry and barking; worse in the evening or 
night, seemingly caused by trouble in the throat; when there is sore throat 
with difficult swallowing, or chronic cough. Administer arsenicum for dry 
cough, in the evening or at night, after eating or drinking, or going up hill, 
or from contact with cold air; difficult breathing; thin discharge from the 
nostrils; for coughs following catarrh of a weak type and influenza. When 
the cough is dry, hoarse and spasmodic, worse in the morning, after exercise or 
after eating, and attended with disorder of the stomach, furred tongue, foul 
mouth, uncertain appetite, and constipation, give nux vomica. Phosphorus 
is needed for a dry cough excited by cold air, drinking, irritation and tickling 
in the windpipe, and attended with discharges of phlegm and difficult 
breathing. Give bryonia for a cough which requires much effort, and 
cuts short the breathing; cough during frosty weather, or east winds, 
or after eating and drinking; continued dry cough, especially in the 
morning, attended with rattling in some part of the windpipe, caused 
by tenacious mucus or soft lymph, and produced by pressure on the 
part of the windpipe where the rattling occurs. Iodine is indicated 
by cough situated in the larnyx or windpipe, accompanied by soft 
secretions, or dependent on chronic inflammation of the mucous mem- 
brane, with foul discharge from the nostrils; the same remedy is use- 
ful for irritable but not inflamed salivary glands. Tartar emetic is ser- 
viceable for bronchial cough, when it is loose and attended with an 
abundant discharge of mucus, loud rattling, and painful breathing. Give 
cannabis for frequent attacks of fitful, hollow-sounding cough, occurring 
only in the morning, or for coughs in the evening, and not extending 
through the night. Kali bichromicum is effectual for tough, ropv, sticky 
phlegm of long-standing cases, and when the tongue is covered with fur. 
Spongia is demanded for shrill, sharp, ringing cough; inflamed windpipe; 
or dry, hollow, barking cough; loose cough; suffocating cough; violent 
racking cough; rattling in the bronchial tubes. For coughs of the various 
respiratory difficulties refer to those ailments. 



THE HORSE- THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS, 601 

COLD.— CATARRH.— COR YZA. 

By these terms is meant an inflammation of the mucous membrane of 
the nose, throat and air-passages, with fever. Though often of little 
moment, it frequently endangers life. It is caused by stoppage of perspira- 
tion from a draught of air, or from standing in the cold after vigorous ex- 
ercise. It may be confined to the nose, when it is called nasal catarrh, or 
may extend throughout the respiratory system. 

Symptoms. — Apparent laziness and slowness; frequent cough and 
snorting; watery discharge from the nose and eyes, with inflammation; 
want of appetite; nasal membrane unusually red; membrane lining the 
eyelids and covering the eyes congested; pulse feeble and perhaps in- 
creased; sometimes swollen glands and sore throat, in which case the appe- 
tite declines, and swallowing even water is difficult, 
the horse holding the water in his mouth, or plung- 
ing his nose into it; the urine grow T s scantv, thick, 
turbid, strong and highly colored; the dung passes 
in small quantities and is covered with mucus; the 
nasal discharge becomes thick, white or yellow, or 
of a slate-color, when fever symptoms disappear, 
leaving no cause for alarm, excepting the liability 
to terminate in glanders, chronic cough, pneumonia, 
or the like, if neglected. Catarrh is often preceded 
by some constitutional trouble, and is distinguished 
from simple cold by local excess of blood in the 
mucous membrane lining the larnyx, pharynx and 136. Symptom of cold ok 
glands near those parts, by which the natural secre- 
tion is at first stopped and then returns, or is replaced by a mucous, w r atery 
discharge, or mucous matter with pus. 

Treatment. — In the first stages, attended with staring of the coat, 
shivering, lassitude, yawning, watery discharge from the nose and eyes, 
give a half-ounce of tincture of camphor in a mixture formed from the 
white of an egg and a teaspoonful of oil beaten together, and added to a 
gobletful of water; repeat the dose in half an hour if shivering continues. 
Aconite is needed w T hen fever comes on with quick and full pulse after the 
cold symptoms; for respiration exceeding fourteen per minute; for a skin 
alternately hot and cold; dry, short, and frequent cough; mouth hot, 
and appetite bad; highly colored urine. It is not suitable for the late 
stages, or for fever of a weak or low type. Give mix vomica when there 
is fever of a low type, with gastric symptoms, constipation, and white or 
shining coat on the tongue. Administer mercurius for thick mucous dis- 




602 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

charge from the nose; sore throat; swelling of glands under the jaw; diffi- 
cult swallowing; slobbering; sticking together of the eyes. Should there 
be prostration after the active symptoms have declined, bad appetite, swol- 
len legs, great running at the nose and eyes, arsenic in some form will be 
useful, five to ten drops of Fowler's Solution every four hours being a 
suitable dose. When the attack comes on in dry weather, during the 
prevalence of dry, cold winds, in sudden changes of weather, or when 
cough is present and threatens bronchitis, give bryonia. Kali bichromicum 
should be given for a discharge of thick, yellowish matter, accumulating on 
the sides of the nostrils; cough; ulceration of the inembrane; swelling un- 
der the jaw: very offensive odor. Put ten grains of the salt in one quart of 
water, and give a wine-glassful of this every two or three hours. This 
may be used as a wash by injecting it into the nose. 

Give the horse a clean, well-drained, and well-ventilated box, with 
plenty of fresh air, without draughts. Give food in moderate quantities, 
allowing only bran-mashes for a few days. Night and morning clean out 
the nostrils as well as possible, and let the horse inhale fumes of vinegar, 
This may be done bv putting in a nose-basket bran soaked in hot water, 
and pouring in a half-pint of vinegar. (See cut 137, page 603.) Or 
vinegar may be poured on a hot brick placed under the nose. Another 
way is to boil a mixture of bran and vinegar in a kettle, and convev the 
steam to the nostril bv a flexible tube. In any case, care must be taken 
not to scald the nasal membrane with the steam. The inhalation causes 
sneezing, and thus the discharge of obstructing pus. The fumes of burn- 
ing tar or balsam of pine are very grateful and often open the passage. 

BRONCHITIS. 

This is an inflammation of the air-tubes which unite the lungs and 
larvnx. It is liable to be mistaken for inflammation of the lungs, though 
in the latter the cellular tissue is affected, not a mucous membrane. This 
distinction should be carefully observed, as the symptoms and treatment for 
bronchitis and for inflammation of the lungs are different. Its causes are 
exposure to cold and wet; washing when the horse is heated, without 
thoroughly drying afterward; sudden changes in weather; standing in 
draughts of air, or being uncovered after violent exercise; high feeding and 
inadequate work; being turned out of a warm stable into the cold, or put 
into a hot stable directly after being on pasture, especially in young horses. 
It occurs more often in autumn and winter, particularly when the weather 
is wet; east w T inds and dry atmosphere long continued encourage it. 

Sy?nfito?ns. — The symptoms at first are the same as those in ordinary 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 



603 



cold, then a sudden, complete failure of appetite; pulse feeble, but steadily 
rising; mucous membrane of the nostrils very red; the cough grows feeble, 
hoarse, prolonged, or may be entirely stopped, usually attended with slob- 
bering, repeated attempts to swallow, and other signs of sore throat; nasal 
membrane, at first dry and red, becomes moistened with watery or thin, 
yellow secretion; perhaps a thick mucous discharge with pus from nostrils; 
temperature of some legs lower than that of the others; breathing difficult 
and rapid, being thirty or more; later, phlegm accu- 
mulates, causing continuous coughing; the dry, 
harsh sound is soon succeeded by a gurgling, caused 
by secretion of mucus, called the "mucus rale"; 
in some parts wheezing. 

In extreme cases the nasal discharge is entirely 
stopped; the lining membrane of the nostrils is very 
red, or purplish, dry and swollen; cough stops, or 
recurs constantly without giving relief; if the lungs 
are involved, there are loud bronchial breathing 
and diminished murmur in breathing, and if the 
latter wholly ceases a crackling sound is heard, 
attended by cold extremities and deep breathing; 
complete loathing of food; weaker, quicker, nearly 
imperceptible pulse; deeper breathing, followed by 
quicker, so that the horse cannot lie down, but 
stands with extended legs; in the absence of relief the animal dies from 
suffocation in eight or ten days from the beginning of the disorder. If in- 
flammation declines, the nostrils give a free discharge; the pulse and 
breathing become slower; the horse lies down; and only a soft cough and 
weakness remain, which are soon cured. 

In moderate cases the nasal discharge is free; the cough distressing 
but loose, with free discharge from the bronchial tubes; pulse fifty to 
seventy; breathing not much increased, but disturbed; loss of appetite not 
complete. Though not so dangerous as the extreme cases, this form may 
result in a change of structure, or destruction of the bronchial tubes, caus- 
ing thick wind. Acute bronchitis sometimes terminates in a chronic form, 
the discharge and cough continuing, without inflammation. In many cases 
it is complicated with inflammation of the lungs. 

Treatment. — Aconite should be given for the first symptoms of 
feverishness; hot, dry mouth and skin; quick, full pulse; short, dry cough; 
difficult breathing; great thirst; red nasal membrane and suspension of its 
normal secretion. It is generally best to alternate aconite with bryonia. 
Give bryonia when the large air-passages are principally affected, the 




\ Steaming-Bag. 



604 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



inflammation having extended down to them along the larynx; when the 
"mucous rale" is at the branching of the windpipe, with frequent, dry, 
irritating cough, increased by motion; thick mucous discharge from the 




The Cough of Confirmed Bronchitis. 



throat and nostrils; also when the horse coughs upon trotting, but not 
when at rest. It is often advantageous to alternate the brvonia with 
aconite. Phosphorus is to be chosen when the small air-passages are pri- 
marily and chiefly affected, small moist rattles being heard, and the cough 





139. Dressing for Protection of the Throat and Lung.--, 
and for Retention of Compresses. 



:-.-. 



Eight-Tailed Bandage for 
the Throat. 



being painful and suppressed, or loud and dry, but with scanty discharge 
from the nostrils. Give belladonna for severe and violent paroxysms of 
coughing, especiallv in the evening; pain in the throat; difficult swallow- 
ing; rapid breathing; sneezing. It may often be beneficially alternated 



THE HORSE-— THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 605 

with mercurius. Mercurius is indicated by cough which is worse at night, 
moist, and marked by slobbering; eyes and nose red; the nasal discharge 
thick and plentiful, though soreness continues in the throat and chest; 
breathing more frequent but not deep; mucous rattles in the windpipe and 
lower passages; glands swollen. A copious flow of mucus, loose cough, 
loud rattling and gurgling in the bronchial tubes, and distressed breathing 
call for antimonium tartaricum. Kali bichromicum is efficacious for tough, 
ropy, sticky phlegm, for tongue covered with yellow fur, and for confirmed 
cases. Give arsenicum when marked weakness and poor appetite continue 
after the foregoing remedies have reduced the active symptoms, and the 
soft cough and nasal discharge progress. In the general care provide for 
the horse a large box, airy, but free from draughts, dirty bedding and other 
offensive matter; plenty of clean straw; comfortable clothing; rubbing of 
the legs night and morning with the hands, and bandages of flannel applied 
to them; bran-mashes, gruel, water (not very cold); when recovering, 
boiled oats, carrots, green food, turnips and malt-mashes. For costiveness 
use back-raking and injections. Steaming the nose (see under Catarrh) 
is often useful. For great weakness and prostration at any stage, stimu- 
lants, such as aromatic or carbonate of ammonia, or wine, should be used. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LARYNX.— LARYNGITIS. 

In this the upper part of the windpipe is more seriously inflamed than 
in sore throat and cold, though it is usually attended by cold. Unless 
checked it is liable to cause death by suffocation, or it may inflict permanent 
injury upon the larynx, disturbing the wind, or may terminate in chronic 
cough, pneumonia or bronchitis. Chronic laryn- 
gitis may result from the acute form, or may come 
gradually without previous severe inflammation, 
and has less violent symptoms. Its causes are 
the same as those of Bronchitis (which consult). 

Symptoms. — A rough, rasping, "harsh sound 
at the top of the windpipe; short, hoarse, hard 
cough, usually convulsive, produced easily by 
pressing the top of the windpipe, the cough being 
so painful as to cause stamping or uneasy move- 
ments about the Stall : outside of throat hot, pain- ***• Listening to the Sounds 

7 r in the Windpipe. 

ful and swollen; breathing short and difficult, 

being from fifteen to twenty per minute; pulse from sixty to seventy, hard, 
quick and full; mucous membrane swollen, perhaps tinged with blood; 
swallowing difficult; the animal quids hay and sups water, the latter again 




6Q6 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

coming out of the nose; thick discharge from the nostrils; slobbering — a 
favorable indication; the cough later becomes hoarse and not so loud; if 
the larynx becomes more inflamed, the breathing grows very labored, each 
breath being marked by a loud snoring; head raised and neck straightened 
out and stiffened ; nose extended ; nostrils widely opened ; nasal membrane 
leaden-colored; larynx drawn downward to the chest and affected with 
spasms, causing a shrill sound; wild eyes; restlessness; increased sweating; 
irregular and feeble pulse; the larynx becomes sometimes so narrowed that 
only an opening of the windpipe can prevent suffocation. 

Treatment. — Aconite is the first remedy to be given when feverish 
symptoms are noticed^ with difficult breathing, full, hard and frequent pulse, 
scanty and high-colored urine. When the throat becomes hot, swollen and 
painful, the glands tender and swollen, the swallowing difficult, the cough 
intermittent, the hay quidded, and the water returned through the nose, bella- 
donna is needed. As soon as the secretion returns to the membranes and 
the mucous rattle can be heard in the larynx, accompanied with hoarse cough 
and nasal discharge, mercurius should be given. Spongia is useful for affec- 
tions of the larynx and may take the 
place of belladonna for very difficult, 
slow and rasping breathing, the inspira- 
tions being hoarse, the cough hard and 
barking, or rough, or shrill; also for 
threatened suffocation. If there be an 
accumulation of tough, stringy mucus in 
the mouth, hoarse cough, scanty urine, 
and constipation, administer kali bichro- 

142. Fomentation on the Throat, (See micum. After all active inflammation 

has subsided and the notable symptoms 
are loss of appetite, swollen legs, debility, nasal discharge, and cough, 
arsenicum is to be taken. Nux vomica is the best remedy for spasm or 
sudden closing of the larynx, being then taken in alternation with mercurius 
solubilis — ten drops of the former and ten grains of the latter being suitable, 
each placed on the tongue after it has been wiped with a clean sponge. 

Provide a loose stall. Let the diet be composed of bran-mashes, carrots, 
green food, gruel, but no corn. Apply fomentations of hot water to the 
throat, and steam the internal part of the same, being careful to avoid scald- 
ing. For such steaming, hold the nose over a pail half filled with hot water, 
into which a handful of hay is placed. Other methods of steaming are 
described under Strangles and may be adopted here. In extreme cases, 
when suffocation seems imminent, the windpipe should be opened by a skill- 
ful surgeon and a tube be introduced to permit breathing. 




THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORS ORGANS. 



607 



INFLAMMATION OF THE PHARYNX.— PHARYNGITIS. 

This affection is caused by exposure to wet and cold, and by impure 
air and hot temperature. 

Symptoms. — Sore throat, sometimes difficult breathing and swollen 
glands of the neck. It has indications similar to sore throat and inflamma- 
tion of the larynx. 

Treatment. — Give iodide of mercury and belladonna in alternation 
every one or two hours. Steam the throat as for Strangles. Keep the ani- 
mal warm with suitable clothing. If the legs are cold, bandage them. 
Pack the throat, a piece of sheep-skin, with the wool, being suitable for this 
purpose. Give bran-mashes, and keep the bowels open. 

CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 

Congestion of the lungs is a gorging of the lungs with blood, and is 
caused by general weakness, which prevents the action of the heart that is 
requisite to the full purification of the blood and circulation; by a long day's 
hard work; by undue riding or driving, especially with a following expos- 
ure to wet and cold; by long runs. It is always present in the beginning 
of pneumonia. 

Symptoms. — If the disorder occurs in the field, the horse suddenly 
stops, with anxious or distressed look; hanging head; expanded, pufFed-out, 




A Frequent Position in Congestion. 



purple nostrils; protruding, blood-shot eyes; hurried, labored breathing, 
going up to eighty or one hundred a minute; panting flanks; small pulse, 
reaching to eighty or one hundred a minute at the bronchial artery; feeble, 
disturbed heart, without the rattle incident to lung-inflammation. When 



60S 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



congestion results from a chill after hard work, the horse stands with the 
fore legs wide apart; head stretched forward toward the coolest place in the 
stable; breathing rapid and labored; heaving flanks; skin dry, or covered 
with cold sweat; legs and ears very cold; pulse not hard but quickened; 
mucous membrane of nose and whites of eyes of a light-purplish color. In 
extreme cases the animal trembles all over, and the ears and legs are as cold 
as in death; the pulse can scarcely be felt; the bowing of the head and other 
marks of brain-trouble show that death is imminent. If the symptoms do 
not end fatally, they are liable to lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. 

Treatment. — Treatment may be favorable if applied early; first re- 
move girths and other impediments to free breathing. Should the horse 
show svmptoms when away from home, he should be given a quart of warm 
ale, or some spirits and warm water, and be left over night, if a ivarm, com- 
fortable stall can be found. If in the stable, and the legs are cold, they 
should be moistened with mustard and rubbed, when the following process 
should be observed, if enough wraps can be secured: — Let a blanket soaked 
in and partially wrung out of very hot water (not so as to scald the ani- 
mal) be placed over the back, and fastened around the sides and under the 
chest, over which 2:>lace a warm sheet and, in addition, two other woolen 
blankets. In fifteen minutes the under blanket should be dipped and wrung 
out of hot water, but done quickly, and left on for about two hours, when a 
dry one must be substituted, and the fourth or outer one be removed, as it is 
not desirable to sweat these cases too much; this, however, may be avoided 
by admitting fresh air as soon as the skin begins to act; but great care must be 
taken not to give a chill after the operation. If the horse will drink scalded 
oatmeal and tepid water, the sweating process will be more quickly pro- 
duced. Ammonium causticum has been proved to be the best remedy in 
connection with processes such as the above. It should be administered 
every hour for the first four or six hours; then every second hour. For 
treatment when this disorder is complicated by inflammation of the lungs, 
consult the following section for full and detailed directions. 

PNEUMONIA.— INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

This is an acute inflammation of the parts composing the lungs and 
has the same causes as congestion. Indeed, it usually follows congestion, 
and also results from influenza, catarrh and bronchitis. It is likewise occa- 
sioned by the breathing of pungent, impure vapors which rise from dung 
and dirty litter; by taking the horse suddenly into the cold or wet after 
standing in a close, warm stable; by such exposure after having clothing on 
in the stable; by unwise feeding. 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 



6oa 




Position in a Bad Attack or Pneumonia. 



Symptoms. — After a cough for several days the horse shivers and quits 
eating; hangs his head in the manger or stretches it out; becomes listless; 
stands all the time with outstretched legs; if the sides are sore, groans when 
made to move around; dilated nostrils; nasal membrane, at first unusually 
red, becomes purple; mouth and breath hot; legs and ears cold; pulse at first 
hard, and goes up to sixty or ninety 
a minute, but later is full and op- 
pressed, and still later small, advanc- 
ing from one hundred to one hun- 
dred and twenty; breathing quick 
and labored; working of the wings 
of the nostrils; heaving flanks; 
cough short and painful, or ceases 
entirely; urine scanty and high- 
colored; bowels usually bound, but 
at last become relaxed (diarrhoea be- 
ing a most dangerous turn); ab- 
scesses in the lungs and gangrene 
are followed by offensive breath and 
great weakness; the horse staggers, being able to lie down only a short 
time, and strikes his head about; the mouth finally is cold, the pulse imper- 
ceptible, and death ensues. 

If the pneumonia be of a typhoid form, the horse for several days 
manifests symptoms of catarrh; remains 'dull; refuses food; pulse soft — 60 to 
70 per minute; breathing rises to about 20, without heaving of Jlanks; 
occasional cough, which the horse tries to check as if in pain; dilated nos- 
trils, with working of their wings; nasal membrane becomes leaden, gen- 
erally with a slight yellow or red discharge of a watery nature; the horse 
does not lie down but stands with outstretched neck ; coat and skin dry ; ears 
and legs cold; dull sound heard upon striking the chest; pressure of the finger 
between the ribs produces great pain; heart-beats intermittent; placing the 
ear to the chest one sometimes detects a rattling sound, but usually only the 
beating of the heart; in bad cases, mouth cold and breath offensive; finally 
the animal is unconscious, staggers, falls and dies. In unfavorable cases 
death follows after twelve or fourteen days. 

There are four stages, generally distinguished by the sounds in the 
chest: (1). In capillary irritation, the murmur of breathing is diminished 
and becomes harsh and dry, or confused. (2). In engorgement, there is a 
crackling sound, like that made by drawing the hair near the ear between 
the finger and thumb, known as "crackling rale." (3). In hepatization, 
there is an absence of sound in some parts; in others, a noise like that of 
39 



(510 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

blowing into a quill; should one lung be sound, its natural murmur is in- 
creased. (4). In purulent infiltration, abscesses form, without sound, or 
the lung is broken, opening into the bronchial tube and producing a deep 
sound, like that caused by blowing into a jug; sometimes a tinkling sound 
occurs, owing to pus in the cavity; if pus enters the bronchial tube, a gur- 
gling sound arises, with coughing, by which a thick gray or white matter is 
thrown out of the mouth; symptoms of gangrene are also detected, but are 
attended by extreme ofFensiveness of the breath and the discharge from the 
mouth. 

Treatment. — For shivering, lassitude, hurried breathing, quick and 
weak pulse, cold nose, ears and legs, and rough coat, give ammonium caus- 
ticum every half-hour until the coldness disappears. 

In the first stage {capillary irritation), and in congestion marked by 
quick, full pulse, dry, hot mouth, reddened mucous membrane of the nose and 
eyes, and disturbed breathing, give aconite every half-hour or hour. As 
soon as the inflammatory stage has set in, marked by crackling sounds in 
the chest, heaving at the flanks, oppressed pulse, cold extremities, and dis- 
charge of reddish or yellowish matter from the nose and mouth, phosphorus 
should be given alternately with aconite every two hours. Bromine is 
highly beneficial when inflammation runs so high in the lungs and adjacent 
parts as to threaten suppuration or gangrene. Prepare it as follows: — In a 
six-ounce bottle put twelve drops of bromine, at once fill it up with water; 
of this mixture one ounce is the dose, but it must be given in four ounces of 
water, as it is very strong. Bromine is very volatile, and the bottle con- 
taining it should not be opened or exposed to the light more frequently 
than is necessary. In ordinary cases of pneumonia, bromine does not act so 
well as phosphorus, but there have been cases in which the latter failed and 
the former succeeded, and vice versa. Bryonia should be alternated with 
phosphorus every hour in the third stage (hepatization), marked by ab- 
sence of sound in some parts, or bronchial breathing in others; also, when 
the breathing has become quickened and not so deep; sometimes catching, 
with painful, short, suppressed cough; or loose cough with discharge of 
frothy phlegm ; pain from striking or pressing between the ribs. Tartar 
emetic is useful when the fourth stage has set in, and is called for by loose, 
rattling cough and free discharge of mucus from both nostrils. After the 
active inflammatory symptoms have subsided, and the pulse, though quick, 
is small and weak, especially where the breath becomes offensive and symp- 
toms of a typhoid character occur, and when effusion has taken place in the 
chest, no time should be lost in giving arsenicum every two or three hours. 
In extreme cases a mustard-lotion should be applied to the sides with rub- 
bing, and repeated the next day if necessary. Avoid blisters and like irri- 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 611 

tants. Put the horse in a well-ventilated stall, without draughts. Rub the 
legs well with the hand and bandage them with flannel. Use an extra 
blanket if the horse be chilly. Give green food if possible, otherwise a 
little bran and oats (previously soaked in boiling water), and hay. If the 
horse refuses other food, sustain him with oatmeal gruel carefully prepared. 
Keep constantly in the stall pure, cold, soft water for the horse to drink as 
he will. If the disorder terminates in simple "hepatization," the horse may 
be moderately worked, if the diet be carefully regulated, the stomach being 
nearly or quite empty when work is required. One of the most common, 
and yet one of the most fatal expedients in the treatment of pneumonia is 
blood-letting, not merely in small quantities, but in repeated and exhausting 
amounts. The result is an increase in the action of the heart as a conse- 
quence of weakness, and this is taken as the signal for further bleeding, and 
the animal succumbs and dies, not simply from the blood that is lost, but 
because he is not strong enough to bleed sufficiently. It is a practice that is 
based upon ignorance, without a single recorded result in its favor. 

CONSUMPTION. 

Consumption, which is rare in horses, is a formation ot tubercles in the 
lungs, which increase and ulcerate. It results from a constitutional tend- 
ency, aggravated by exposure to damp and cold; pasturage on marshy 
ground ; over-exertion. 

Symptoms. — Much coughing, dry or moist, with pus discharged from 
the nostrils, sometimes in great quantities ; loss of flesh in spite of a good 
appetite; short breath; weakness; mane falls off; small sores on the withers; 
diarrhoea and death. 

Treatment. — The disease is usually not noticed until it is settled. 
Then it is incurable, but much can be done to give relief by general care. 
Keep the horse well stabled, avoiding north and east winds, free from ex- 
citement and alarm, warmly clothed and well-rubbed. When the weather 
is warm and the sun shining, allow him to be in the open air, stabling him 
as soon as the evening draws nigh. Give nourishing, easily digested arti- 
cles of food, as fats, consisting of linseed, corn, beans, peas and potatoes. 
Cod-liver oil, the hypophosphites, or the wheat phosphates may be used with 
advantage. Inhalations of carbolic acid, sulphur, and pine tar may assist in 
giving relief. These may be used by steaming with hot water, or by burn- 
ing the articles and allowing the animal to inhale the vapor. The steaming- 
bag represented by cut 1 37 will be found of service in such inhalations. At 
best, one can only hope to prolong the life of a suffering animal which can 
be of little service. 



612 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

PLEURISY. 

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the serous membrane which lines the 
chest and forms a cavity for the viscera contained therein. Its causes are 
exposure to cold, wet, or any sudden chill; atmospheric influence, pleurisy 
being a frequent accompaniment of influenza; extension of inflammation 
from the substance of the lungs. It may also be a local result of some in- 
ternal fevers. 

Symptoms, — These so nearly resemble those of pneumonia that 
they need careful study. The horse first shows signs of fever, with 
coughing and much restlessness, after which he remains standing still, and is 
unwilling to move; the flanks are very tender, and are peculiarly tucked 
up; the legs are more nearly erect than in pneumonia, though the head is 
outstretched; pulse from sixty to eighty in extreme cases, and yet very 




145. A Horse Suffering from Pleurisy. 



small and quick; breathing uneven, and from twenty to forty; the breath 
is drawn in quickly and with interruptions, but expelled slowly ; the counte- 
nance indicates pain; the animal looks at the sides frequently in a dejected 
manner; pressure between the ribs is followed by a grunt and an attempt 
to bite the attendant; upon turning around the horse gives a grunt, and the 
cough which usually occurs is checked, or cut short ; partial sweats and 
twitching of the muscles are not uncommon; extremities variable in tem- 
perature, usually cold as in pneumonia. In unfavorable cases the breathing 
is quickened; the pulse grows more frequent and small; the tongue is 
coated and offensive in odor; a long breath is suddenly checked and a grunt 
occurs; inflammation continuing, breathing is more limited; pulse less dis- 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. (313 

tinct; the horse is restless, paws, rises ,ind lies down frequently, wanders un- 
consciously around the stall, becomes worn out, falls and dies- 

The symptoms of this disease which distinguish it from others with 
similar indications, especially pleurodynia, are these: — The sound as of the 
palms of the hands rubbed together, heard upon placing the ear to the sides 
of the chest; the variation in pulse and breathing; the animal appearing 
alternately better or worse at uncertain hours; the attempt to check the 
painful cough; the pain and grunt incident to pressure or striking on the 
diseased part (pain being caused by manipulation, without pressure, in 
pleurodynia) ; the short, catching breath, and the difference in time between 
taking in and expelling the breath. 

Treatment. — Aconite and bryonia are the best remedies for the 
primary or inflammatory stage, and should be given alternately every hour 
until a perceptible change occurs in the pulse and respiration, and then at 
intervals of three or four hours. After the inflammatory symptoms have 
disappeared give a few drops of arsenic or digitalis to promote the action 
of the kidneys and prevent effusion. Observe the same general care as to 
stabling, diet and other particulars as was laid down for Pneumonia. 
If there be evidences of water in the chest, consult the remarks on 
Hydrothorax. 

BROKEN WIND.— HEAVES. 

• This disorder is most common in low-bred and cart horses, and is a 
difficulty in breathing, marked by a double expulsion of the breath, with 
fits like those of asthma. It originates in disorder of the nerves of the 
lungs and stomach, or rupture of some air-cells, and is excited by irregular 
work, improper feeding, such as clover-hay, or any dusty hay. It may 
follow chronic cough, or inflammation of the lungs and bronchial tubes. 

Symptoms. — Short, suppressed, and very feeble cough, often attended 
with expulsion of wind from the anus; breathing consists of one effort at 
drawing in air and two at expelling it; indigestion, with oats and hay in the 
dung; when the animal draws a heavy load or trots rapidly, the flanks 
heave violently, with a wheeze in the breathing in many cases, not all, 
which does not cease at once when the animal is brought to rest; when the 
horse is in the stable, if the ear is applied to the chest, especially at night, 
a wheeze and rattle are heard, which are sometimes sonorous; suppressed 
natural murmur of breathing, with increased resounding from a stroke, 
and difficulty of breathing. 

Treatment. — Broken wind, in early stages, is curable; after it has 
run a considerable time without treatment, it can only be relieved. Give 



61-A COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

arsenicum when there exist a wheezing cough and sound when breathing; 
short, hurried, difficult breathing when going up a hill. Give nux vomica 
when the symptoms are aggravated, especially those showing indigestion, 
such as passage of hay and oats, windy stomach and intestines, and thin, 
seedy appearance of the animal. One of the best remedies for this disorder, 
and one which rarely fails to give relief, is lobelia. It should be given in 
doses of a half-teaspoonful to a teaspoonful of the tincture two or three 
times a day. The following formula will also be found useful: 

Tincture of lobelia, 4 ounces. 

Fowler's Solution, y 2 ounce. 

Iodide of potassa, 1 ounce. 

Water, 4 ounces. 

Mix. 
Give a teaspoonful three times a day. Give the best and most nourish- 
ing food frequently, but in small quantities, avoiding chaff and dusty hay. 
Do not give more than five pounds of hay in a day, but increase the allow- 
ance of carrots, barley, oats, and boiled corn, observing a rational alterna- 
tion in their use. Impose slow work or three or four hours daily of walk- 
ing, but give no exercise soon after eating a meal. 

THICK WIND. 

Thick wind often results from pneumonia or bronchitis, and is most 
frequently found in low-bred horses with badly-shaped chests, which eat 
ravenously. It is a thickening of the membranes lining the bronchial tubes, 
so that the horse, when violently worked after feeding, or when the stomach 
is full, has defective breathing, with blowing but not noise. 

Symptoms. — Short, quick, difficult breathing during any exertion, 
especially while ascending a hill. 

Treatment. — This is incurable, but is relieved by the use of arseni- 
cum, nux vomica, ammonium causticum and bryonia, and by the general 
care to be observed in Broken Wind (previous section). 

WHISTLING.— ROARING.— BLOWING. 

An obstruction of the air-passages produces sounds of differing char- 
acter, and from these the horse is called a whistler, roarer, blower, grunt er, 
and the like. These difficulties are often taken from the sire or dam, and 
are promoted by laryngitis, bronchitis, and other respiratory diseases; also 
by the inflammation which often results from tight reins, and from always 
driving a horse on the same side, by which the muscles of the larynx on the 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. ()15 

side next to the other horse are not exerted as much as the others and thus 
become weak (the horse then becomes a roarer, even without inflamma- 
tion). Tumors and other swellings, mechanical injuries, indeed anything 
that obstructs breathing, may cause the disorder. 

Symptoms. — Generally a harsh or sawing noise in tlie drawing in of 
the breath when the horse is put on a canter or gallop; in some cases it is 
sonorous, in some, whistling; in extreme cases, the noise is heard both in 
taking in and in expelling the breath. The disorder is best determined by 
galloping the horse to produce the sound. Another method is to hold the 
bridle and alarm the horse by a threatened blow with a stick, when the 
breath will be sudden, and accompanied with a grunt or roar if this trouble 
exists. In acute cases the larynx is inflamed. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna for recent inflammation of the mem- 
brane of the larynx, and kali bichromicum for ulceration of this membrane. 
Chronic roaring can not be cured, though the cutting out of some of the 
funnel-shaped cartilage on the larynx, the use of a tube in the windpipe, 
and a strap passed around the nose so as to limit the ingress of air, are said 
to have been applied with advantage by an expert. 

SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM.— HICCOUGH. 

This is a spasmodic contraction of the diaphragm, or the muscular 
wall which separates the chest from the abdomen. It is caused by irregu- 
lar nervous influence which results from long work upon an empty stom- 
ach, or quick work without preparatory training. 

Symptoms. — The heart-beats may be heard on either side, and are un- 
naturally loud and quick, though their force is not increased as much as the 
sound; almost imperceptible pulse; heaving of the sides; flanks move little 
or not at all, but are unusually full; hiccough is always present, being a 
sudden contraction of the breathing muscles, especially of the diaphragm, 
followed by an equally sudden relaxation, causing a rapid taking of breath, 
whose suddenness and force will be observed. Carefully distinguish this 
from Palpitation of the Heart, and compare the symptoms of the latter. 

Treatment. — The disorder generally yields to treatment in a very 
short time. Give nux vomica every half-hour, or stannum once in one, two, 
or four hours. The horse should not be driven rapidly or a long distance. 

NASAL GLEET. 

We apply this term to any chronic discharge from one or both nos- 
trils, whether it originates in the nasal chambers, in the nasal cavities, in 



616 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the pouches of the throat, in disease of the bones of the face, in caries of 
the teeth, or in loss of nervous power. The symptoms of the disease aris- 
ing from these respective causes are sufficiently distinct to warrant a divi- 
sion into the five classes given below, under which the special treatment 
needed for a particular form will be given as it is demanded, with the 
remedies and their applications for all placed last. It is important to 
study this disease carefully; it is serious, but undue concern has been some- 
times felt at its appearance, because it has been mistaken for glanders. 

(i). SIMPLE NASAL GLEET. 

This results from simple catarrh that has been neglected. 

Symptoms. — Its symptoms are a whitish, yellowish, or greenish dis- 
charge of varying quantity from one or both nostrils, sometimes partially 
lumpy and clotted, and adhering to the sides of the nostrils; nasal mem- 
brane of a dull, leaden color and unhealthy look; in horses of low condition 
ulcers may appear close to the exterior of the nostrils, though this symptom 
indicates a transition to glanders; the gland under one or both jaws is 
slightly swollen, but not adhering to the jaw-bone, though perhaps tender; 
appetite poor; strength reduced; coat staring; work done languidly; nasal 
discharge exceedingly offensive, especially in poorly-ventilated stables. 

(2). PUS IN THE SINUSES. 

^After severe catarrh dense pus sometimes fills the cavities of the nose 
and face and escapes from the nostrils. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms are a swelling of the glands under the 
jaw; swelling of the face on the affected side; the escape of the pus is im- 
peded. The presence of pus in the cavities may be determined by tapping 
with the hand on the side supposed to contain it; its presence will be 
marked by a dull sound. If but one side be affected, the dull sound of the 
diseased side will be in contrast with the hollow sound of the healthy one. 

Beside the treatment hereafter noted, a circular piece of bone must be 
removed by a veterinary surgeon, half-way between the margin of the 
orbit of the eye and the middle line of the head, and a similar opening be 
made into the jaw-bone above the cheek-bone. Then remove the matter 
thoroughly with tepid water and a syringe, following this up three times 
a day with an injection of hydrastis-lotion. 

(3). PUS IN THE POUCHES OF THE THROAT. 

The inflammation and formation of pus attending nasal catarrh may 
extend to the throat, where the pouches collect pus as in strangles. The 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 617 

pus may escape into the nose or the throat, or pass through the skin by an 
opening at the angle of the jaw. If it escape by the nose, the discharge is 
usually from one nostril, and the glands under the jaw are enlarged. There 
may be no pus on the other side, or it may be there shut up and solidified. 
The nasal discharge comes and goes at regular or irregular intervals. 
When the matter passes into the throat, it threatens suffocation. Occa- 
sionally an opening occurs both in the throat and at the angle of the jaw, 
when the pouch is enormous, the amount of pus very great, and the ulcera- 
tion very considerable. If both sides are affected, the breathing may be 
difficult, and suffocation threatened. Should the horse in addition rear up, 
and have a thick, gummy coat, glanders may be reasonably suspected. 

In addition to the remedies hereafter named, it is very useful to turn 
the horse loose and let him feed from the ground or floor. Indeed, in 
some mild cases cures have been effected by allowing the horse to go into 
the yard or field where his head is nearly always hanging down. In this 
way the pus naturally falls through the nostrils, while the nose very often 
remains dry if the same horse is tied to the rack. An injection of iodine 
twice a day should be given by a skillful practitioner, and the same medi- 
cine administered internally. It may be necessary to perform an operation 
for the removal of the pus and the washing out of the pouch with a lotion 
of hydrastis or iodine ; the operation can be done only by a practitioner. 

(4). ABSCESS OF A DISEASED BONE. 

After severe catarrh, especially in colts, an abscess may occur on the 
bone in one side of the head. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms are swelling and inflammation of the 
nasal membrane; difficult breathing, often causing a suspicion of polypus; 
the nasal discharge is variable, occurs when the head is raised, and may be 
preceded by a strangling cough. An operation by a surgeon may be needed. 

(5). CARIES OF THE BONES OF THE FACE. 

A nasal discharge sometimes follows an organic disease of the nasal or 
upper maxillary bones, or of those on the side of the head; or it may be 
caused by the presence of foreign matter in the nasal chamber, or by a pro- 
jecting tooth, perhaps carous. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms of this disorder are a flow of matter only 
from the affected side, very offensive, often tinged with blood and mingled 
with particles of dead bone ; the lymphatic glands are swollen but do not 
adhere to the bone. The foreign substance, the tooth causing the trouble, 
or the diseased bone, must be removed. 



618 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment for All Forms. — Give Hydrastis for copious discharge 
of adherent glue-like matter; enlarged glands under the jaws; inflamed 
nasal membrane; staring coat; constipation; scanty and high-colored urine. 
Potassa bichromate is demanded by a discharge of thick, yellow or green- 
ish pus, very offensive; swollen glands; quickened breath and pulse. 
Mercurius is valuable for all offensive discharge of mucus mingled with 
pus; glands enlarged and tender; nasal membrane appearing red, as if full 
of blood-vessels; sneezing; sore throat; also when the bone is diseased. 
Give iodide of arsenic for a free discharge of a thin, irritating: fluid which 
induces rawness of the edges of the nose; relapses of the disease, and at- 
tacks resulting from exposure to cold and wet; loss of flesh, appetite and 
strength. Fowler's Solution has also been beneficially used for the condi- 
tions named for iodide of arsenic, and five to ten drops may be taken two 
or three times a day. Though internal remedies will suffice for cases that 
have not continued long, about a half-pint of either of the following injec- 
tions may aid such internal remedies, and it may be necessary in some 
instances, especially in advanced stages, for a surgeon to administer them: 
(i). Tincture of iodine, two drachms in a pint of water. (2 ). Bichromate 
of potash, one drachm in a pint of water. (3). Hvdrastia, a half-ounce in 
a pint of water. (4). Sugar of lead, one drachm in a pint of water. (5). 
Sulphate of zinc, one drachm in a pint of water. The first is the best. 

BLEEDING AT THE XOSE. 

This is caused by weakness of the blood-vessels, or by an increase of 
the volume of blood in the nasal membrane as a result of excessive ex- 
ertion. It is often only a symptom of glanders, polypus, or other ailment. 
It may also result from a blow or wound. 

Symptoms. — The form which is symptomatic of another disorder will 
be easily recognized, as also that which results from a blow or wound. 
We need then to give a description of that which comes from weakness of 
the blood-vessels. It may be either active or passive. The active is most 
common in horses that are fat or have an excess of blood, and unless it re- 
sults from quick work, may be regarded as an inflammatory disease of the 
membrane, the blood flooding the membrane and extending from the capil- 
laries, which are weakened by pressure of blood and lack of cool air. 
There is a full, bounding pulse, with other feverish symptoms of derange- 
ment. In the passive, the fever-disturbance is not present. This form 
gives little occasion for fear of fatal results, but it should be carefully re- 
garded, as it may be only the beginning of glanders. 

This disease may be confounded with bleeding from the lunsrs, though 



THE HORSE THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 619 

its flow of blood is found only in one nostril in the great majority of cases, 
while in bleeding from the lungs it comes from both, is accompanied with 
coughing and is more or less frothy, escaping also from the mouth. 

Treatment. — When the bleeding results from disease, that disease 
must be treated. Aconite should be given for acute bleeding not resulting 
from another disease — ten drops every ten minutes until the bleeding stops, 
and then every four hours for a day or two. Arnica is better, given inter- 
nally and applied locally as an injection, when a local injury causes the 
bleeding. It is also good for the passive cases, given once in ten minutes 
while the flow continues. Extract of hamamelis may be used internally 
and locally, and is an efficient remedy. Cold water dashed on the face is a 
valuable aid. It may be applied by saturated cloths often changed, or 
poured on from a considerable height. It may be well to tie the head up 
above its normal height. In persistent cases, throw into the nostril a spray 
of dilute alum-water, or salt-water, and even plugging of one nostril (both 
must never be closed at the same time) with pieces of lint or soft cotton, 
fastened by a cord with which to withdraw them, may be required. Give 
a diet of bran-mashes during the treatment. Avoid tight collars, 

POLYPUS IN THE NOSE. 

This is a soft tumor hanging on a stem on the mucous membrane or 
cartilages of the nose. It is streaked with blood-vessels, is so spongy as 
to take in and retain air and dampness, which makes it grow larger in 
damp weather than in dry. There may be one or more. 

Symptoms. — At first, obstructed breathing in the affected nostril, in 
which the passage of air will finally be wholly stopped; deformity of the 
bones of the face; nasal gleet or roaring may first call attention to the 
trouble in the nostril ; by looking up the nostril one may see a pear-shaped, 
inelastic, movable polypus, which seldom bleeds; striking on the affected 
part produces a dull sound; sometimes a mattery discharge, and occasion- 
ally bleeding. These tumors may form in the closed cavities and pharynx. 

Treatment. — A practitioner may remove the tumor by cutting, tor- 
sion or ligatures. Torsion is the snatching away of the tumor with for- 
ceps, and may injure the nasal membrane and the bone to which the tumor 
is attached, and may also cause considerable bleeding, though it is not 
dangerous. If the tumor be low down, any one may firmly tie a strong, 
fine string around the stem, leaving it there until it causes the tumor to 
drop off. If it be high up, it may be necessary for a surgeon to slit the 
false nostril before the polypus can be removed. After removal a solution 
of nitric acid should be injected into the nostril to prevent a reappearance. 




H7- 



SKETCH OF THE HORSE. 



Principal Points and Parts to be Examined for Defects. Injuries and I 



Muzzle. 

Place of Fistula from Teeth. 

Place of Mumps. 

Place of Poll-evil. 

Angle of Jaw. 
6. Crest. 

Place of Fistula from Vein. 

Throttle, Thropple, or Wind- 
pipe. 

Shoulder- point: place of 
Sores from Harness. 
10. Shoulder-blade. 

Withers : sometimes the seat 
of Fistuia: height of horses 
reckoned from the gTOund to 
the Withers. 

Front of Chest or Breast. 
13. The True Arm. 

Elbow; sometimes the seat 
of Tumors. 

Arm, or Fore -arm. 



-.{. 



Knee, or "Wrist; sometimes 

swelled, having a fungous 

gTowth; or the skin may Save 

been broken. 

17. Back Sinew: place of 

Curb. 

Place of Disease of Skin 
above the Coronet — Crown 
scab. 
19. Fetlock, cr Pastern - joint. 

Coronet. 
21. Heel. 

Contracted Hoof. 

Mallenders: 24A. Sallenders. 

Seat : f Sj lint, w Eji isfa sis 
on side of Cannon-bone. 
26, 26. Seats of Bursal En- 
largements. 

Back, or spine. 

Place of Saddle-galls. 



29. Girth, or C i rc umfe rence 

in Measurement. 

Place of Injury from Pres- 
sure of Girth. 

Barrel, or Middle-piece. 

Loins. 

Croup. 

Haunch. 

Flank. 

Seat of W 

Sheath, or Pr 
38L Gas-skin, or Lower Thigh. 

Root of the Dock, ; 1 

Hip -joint — Round or Whirl- 
bone. 

Rat tail. 

The Qv.^ner?. 

Point of the Hock: seat of 
Capped -hock. 
44. C-.nnon-bone. 

Place of Spavin. 
40. Hoof. 







CHAPTER VI. 
THE SKIN. 

ERUPTIONS. 

||F these the first kind are very small elevations, some of which 
fl¥r con tain a dry, chalk-like substance, while others discharge a sticky 
fluid that mats the adjacent hair, and then dry up; the second are 
most frequent in horses with a great supply of blood, especially 
in hot weather, and they come and go suddenly, some being irregular 
lumps, from the size of a pea to that of a walnut, others flat, covering a 
space several inches in circumference. They are found in groups over the 
body, occasionally becoming soft and discharging a gluey fluid, but gener- 
ally leaving suddenly without this manifestation. In some cases of the 
second kind fever-symptoms are marked, in others they are obscure if 
they exist at all. Among the causes are a change of food, shedding, sud- 
den stoppage of sweat from drinking cold water when the animal is 
heated, indigestion, overfeeding and insufficient work. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica is the most approved remedy for the first 
kind of eruptions named, given in ten-drop doses three times a day for four 
days; the same has proved beneficial for the second kind. If nux vomica 
fails to reduce the symptoms, give five to ten drops of Fowler's Solution 
two or three times a day. Give bran-mashes and green food for a few 
days. The reader must not expect that all eruptions and "pimples" can 
be cured by this treatment, or by any other single one. The functions of 
the skin are more complicated and important than most people suppose, 
and their derangement or interruption will induce grave disorders. They 
are very similar to those of the skin in man, and the reader should carefully 
note the remarks made in the introduction to Chapter VII of Part I. He 
will infer therefrom that eruptions on the skin are very often symptoms of 
some serious disease, and that attempts to remove them or drive them back 
are liable to produce great injury. When they are symptomatic of some 
disease, treat the disease before attempting to effect their cure. 

621 



622 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



SURFEIT.— PRURIGO. 

Surfeit is an excessive itching with no visible cause, most common 
in colts during breaking, and in horses put to work in warm weather fresh 
from the pasture. It is caused by sudden change from green to dry food, 
too much or too stimulating food, want of work, bad food, and low 
condition. Prurigo is here considered a form of surfeit. 

Symptoms. — Itching and rubbing, the hair being thus removed from 
the affected parts; rough, scaly patches, especially at the roots of the tail 




147. A Horse with Surfeit. 



and mane; possibly raw places. The miscroscope can detect no parasites, 
as it can in mange. 

Treatment. — Remove the cause, if it be insufficient work, heating 
food, poor or deficient feeding, and make the requisite change. Give the 
horse a good grooming, without brush or comb. Give an occasional sweat. 
For fever, heated skin, great itching in well-fed horses with much blood, 
give belladonna. Arnica is preferable for poor condition and deranged di- 
gestion. Relieve the parts which itch most by applying a liniment com- 
posed of one drachm of carbolic acid and two ounces of glvcerine. 

GREASE AND SCRATCHES. 



Grease is an inflammation and ulceration of the skin on the lower 
parts of the legs, with a greasy discharge. Its causes are hereditary weak- 
ness of the skin, mainly in low-bred horses; cold and moisture; sudden 



THE HORSE THE SKIN. 



023 



changes from cold to heat; deranged action of the skin; chapped heels. 
Scratches are closely allied to grease, though caused by exposure to mud, 
wet, and neglect in cleaning the legs. 

Symptoms. — In the first stage, sometimes fever-symptoms; the legs, 
especially the hind ones, swollen about the hock; red and inflamed skin at 
the heel; pain from handling the leg, causing the horse to snatch it up and 
thrust it out awkwardly; straddling gait, with hind legs apart. In the 
second stage, sloughy and unhealthy cracks or ulcers in the skin, extending 
around the leg, give out an oily-looking discharge, which wets the skin 
and may drip from the hair; the cracks are found on the back part of and 





14$. Exudation in the First Stage of Grease. 



149. Cracks in the Second Stage of Grease. 



above the fetlock, and their discharge increases the inflammation and 
ulceration of the limb. In the third stage, irregular fungous growth, from 
the size of a pea to that of a walnut, at the bottoms of the cracks, full of 
blood-vessels which bleed upon handling; the discharge becomes very offen- 
sive and pus-like, destroying most of the hair and leaving the balance 
bristling; the excrescences are red (called "grapes " from their appearance), 
and finally become cartilaginous. To avoid confusing Grease with Farcy, 
consult the table of symptoms given in the section devoted to the latter. 

Scratches consist in little scaly sores, which become covered with thin 
scabs, and are likely to be tender and annoying until dry weather has come 
on in spring, unless treated promptly. 

Treatment. — For Grease, put on a turnip or linseed poultice. 
Give exercise morning and evening, bandaging the legs after removing the 
poultice. Smear glycerine over the parts three times daily. Give bran- 
mashes for food. Give ten drops of Fowler's Solution of arsenic three 
times a day, and it will often effect a cure, if promptly given. In the second 
stage, with ulceration, cut off the long hair from the affected part and 
foment twice a day; dry the leg, and lightly smear over the cracks a lini- 



624 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH 

meat of one drachm of Fowler's Solution of arsenic and one ounce of gly- 
cerine. This failing, foment the leg, gently dry, and apply four times a 
day a lotion of one drachm of ruta and one ounce of water. Give arseni- 
cum internally three times a day. In the third stage, with " grapes," if the 
growths "be large or hard, they may be removed by caustics, as sulphuric 
acid, chloride or sulphate of zinc, applied every second or third day; or 
they may be removed with a sharp knife, the bleeding surface being then 
touched -with caustic. If they be small, with very offensive discharge, add 
to six parts of carbolic acid one part glycerine, and apply with a very soft 
brush. After this a speedy cure may generally be effected by a lotion com- 
posed of one drachm of carbolic acid and two ounces of glycerine. Liquor 
arsenicalis and sulphuric acid lotions have proved beneficial, with arsenicum 
three times daily internally. The diet should be soft and nutritious, such 
as bran-mashes and good, clean clover. 

For Scratches, the above internal remedies are recommended. Appiy 
externally a mixture of aloes and glycerine, or camphorated alcohol and 
chloral. Corn and other heating food should be restricted or avoided. 
When the horse has been in the mud in the spring, the legs should be 
thoroughly washed and rubbed dry upon being taken to the stable, and it 
is well also to rub on some kind of pure grease or oil after such cleansing. 
Indeed, the dressing of oil and grease has often been of much benefit in 
treating cases of scratches, and it is excellent as a preventive, well rubbed 
in before the horse is taken out for travel in the mud. 

CHAPPED OR CRACKED HEELS. 

This disorder is caused by washing the heels and not drying at once, 
over-feeding, want of work, the coating process and heredity. 

Symfttovis. — Sometimes the first symptom is swelling of the lower 
part of the legs, with cracks and watery discharges at the back part of the 
pastern. At other times, there will be red and tender skin in the hollow 
of the pastern; drying up of the secretion and consequent cracking; lame- 
ness. The cracks bleed upon motion and become ulcerated, giving out a 
thin, burning discharge which increases the swelling and heat; bottoms 
of the cracks sloughing and unhealthy; sometimes fever and impaired 
appetite. 

Treatment. — Clip the hair from the edges of the crack and apply to 
the heel a warm turnip or linseed poultice if much fever be present, and 
give bran-mashes and green food for diet. When the inflammation begins 
to subside, discontinue poultices and apply morning and evening, with a 
soft sponge, a lotion of one drachm of liquor arsenicalis and two ounces of 



THE HORSE THE SKIN. 625 

water; before using the lotion, wash the cracks with soap and water and 
gently dry the heel. In the absence of much inflammation, the disorder not 
being an outgrowth of constitutional disease, apply morning and evening 
a liniment of one drachm of liquor arsenicalis to one ounce of glycerine. 
When the inflammation is not very active, good results may be secured by 
a dry flannel bandage applied moderately tight around the leg. Give 
arsenicum three times a day. Put on high-heeled shoes, and give two 
hours in walking exercise daily. Exercise care during coating. 

MANGE.— ITCH. 

This is an itching and scaling of die skin from the presence of para- 
sites under the surface. It is caused by a poor and weak condition, with 
want of cleanliness. It is contagious, though it is seldom transmitted to 
strong, well-kept horses, and then does not spread among them. 

Symptoms. — Itching, soon followed by falling of hair and scaling of 
skin; small vesicles form on the skin, burst, and discharge a fluid which 
forms into a scab; this being removed, the microscope detects very small 




Test for Mange. 



insects. Later, the skin lies in hard folds, especially about the neck, and 
becomes raw and ulcerated by repeated rubbing; in advanced stages fever 
appears, with loss of flesh and sometimes dropsical indications. The neck, 
shoulders, back, quarters and abdomen are the parts most affected. The 
attendant may take the itch by contagion. 

Treatment. — Give arsenicum night and morning in cases with 
scabby sores and red, burning ulcers, with hard-crusted edges. It is valuable 
when the horse is in low condition. Mercurius is needed if there be raw 
sores or pustular formations. To destroy the parasites, use the above inter- 
nal remedies and in addition put on the affected parts and thoroughly rub in 
a liniment composed of three ounces of oil of tar and one pint of train oil, 
first carefully washing the parts with soft soap and warm water, and drying 
with care. Repeat the process in three or four days. Three ounces of 
sulphur and a pint of oil make a good ointment. Carbolic acid, one part 
40 



626 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

to thirty-two of water, is highly recommended; one dressing may be suffi- 
cient, and may be washed off in two days. Should these applications fail 
to destroy the parasites, saturate the parts daily with a lotion of two ounces 
of liquor arsenicalis and one pint of water. A very desirable remedy is 
made of one ounce of pure carbolic acid and one pint of glycerine, a little 
being daily rubbed upon the bare patches, or lightly put on the sores. In 
extreme cases, the following lotion may be applied, not less than a week 
apart: One half-drachm of corrosive sublimate mixed with two ounces of 
spirits of wine, then adding one pint of glycerine. Because of its cheap- 
ness and efficacy, the tar-liniment first named should be tried before other 
remedies, unless it be the diluted carbolic acid. Give soft, nutritious food, 
including green diet. 

Use one of these applications in cleansing all harness, brushes and 
combs used about the horse, as well as all posts, trees, boards or other 
objects against which the animal has been rubbing, both in the stable and 
out of doors; boil, for a long time, all blankets that have been used. 

LICE. 

Lice may be found on horses, especially those of long, shaggy coats 
and lean condition. They may come from dirt, old straw, fowls roosting 
about the stall, and other sources, or from contact with another horse. 

Symptoms. — The horse bites his quarters and sides, rubs against any 
object in reach, tearing the skin in patches ; lice on the bare patches are seen. 

Treatment. — Boil one ounce of tobacco in a pint and a half of water 
down to a pint, strain, add forty grains of white arsenic, and then boil a 
little again. Wash the parts with the preparation. Another excellent 
expedient is to rub into the roots of the hair powdered white precipitate, 
removing it the third day by good brushing, and keeping the horse dry 
while this is on him. Keep the stable thoroughly clean; burn all infected 
litter and clothing; wash the harness with hot water. 

ITCHING OF THE MANE AND TAIL. 

This is usually caused by neglecting to keep the roots of these parts 
clean. It is in many cases cured by washing with strong salt-water. 
Another method is to wash the parts with soap and water and apply lard 
and blue ointment in equal parts, meanwhile keeping the horse dry. 
Though such itching often points to mange or lice, it does not always do 
so. Its chief injury is in a disfigurement of the mane and tail from the 
rubbing. 



THE HORSE THE SKIN. 



627 



HIDE-BOUND. 

Hide-bound is a sticking of the skin to the ribs, either as a symptom 
of some disease internally, or as a result of absorption of the adipose matter 
and fat under the skin. Sometimes the abdomen is distended with wind, or 
is contracted and tucked up. 

Treatment. — If it results from another disease, that must be removed 
by the proper treatment. In cases of indigestion, a very common cause, 
give ten drops of nux vomica three times a day. Steep a pint of linseed 
in boiling water and add it to a bran-mash, giving this every night. If 
the horse be poor, give soft, nutritious diet, as clover and other green food. 

MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 



These are unsightly scurfy eruptions on the back of the knee and front 
of the hock respectively. They are caused by washing the legs and not 
properly drying, and by bad grooming. 

Symptoms. — Cracks or scurf on the back of the knee or bend of the 
hock; itching; sometimes lameness. Previous to this there might have 
been an eruption with a fluid oozing out 
and forming a scab with mingled dirt and 
pieces of cuticle, sometimes ending in ulcer- 
ations, like cracks at the heels. 

Treatment. — Soften the scurf night 
and morning with warm water, and dress 
with a preparation of one drachm of car- 
bolic acid and two ounces of glycerine. 
Or give arsenicum internally and apply 
externally a preparation of one drachm 
'ders-backof of liquor arsenicalis and two ounces of "5* Sallenders — in 

Knee. . . Front of Hock. 

glycerine. Thuja is a valuable internal 
and external remedy ; for external use add one part of the tincture to two 
of glycerine. A wash made by steeping the leaves of the arbor vitae is 
also useful and convenient. 




M ALLEN- 




RING-WORM.— TETTER. 



This is an eruption of the skin which results from low condition; bad 
food; sudden change of food, even if from bad to good; contagion, the 
groom himself being thus liable to it. 

Symptoms. — White scaly scurf, more often on the neck, shoulders or 



628 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

quarters, spreading out in a circular form one or two inches in diameter, 
composed of pimples with raised edges; itching; scales and hair fall; 
pimples disappear, leaving nothing but scurf and loss of hair. Sometimes 
however it takes the form of pustules in limited patches, giving out a dis- 
charge which mats the hair; a crust then forms that is easily removed; small 
cavities are underneath, some containing pus. 

Treatment. — Give bran-mashes at night, and arsenicum night and 
morning. In the dry form, apply daily a preparation of one half-drachm of 
carbolic acid to one ounce of glycerine. In the hu?nid form, remove the 
scabs and dress the sores daily with a mixture of one drachm of liquor ar- 
senicalis to one ounce of water, giving rhus or arsenicum in a wine glass- 
ful of water three times daily. Promote the general health. 

WARTS. 

Warts are excrescences of varying size, spongy and readily bled, or hard 
and dry, occurring singly on the belly, sheath, and inside of the thigh, or 
in clusters on the face, nose, ears, and eyelids. They may have a broad 
base, or stand or hang on a stem. They are probably caused by deranged 
secretion of the skin. 

Treatment. — Remove any that are on a stem or small base by tying 
ligatures firmly around the base and leaving them until the warts fall off; 
the application of caustics is still better. If the wart be broad and moist, 
or if large and very " seedy," and bleeds easily, scrape the surface raw 
with the thumb nail (if not already raw), moisten the finger, dip it in 
powdered arsenic, and put a slight layer on the raw surface, leaving it 
thus. The wart will usually drop off, after one application, in ten to twen- 
ty days, never growing again. If clusters of small warts appear on the 
face and about the eyes, wet the warts three times a day with thuja; if this 
does not succeed, use rhus in the same way. Sometimes the wart has no 
attachment to the skin other than a sac which incloses it. In such cases, 
cut the sac, squeeze out the wart, and the cut will heal at once. 

ERYSIPELAS. 

This is a spreading painful inflammation which frequently affects the 
underlying parts, or even the internal organs. It may be communicated 
by one animal to another. Among its predisposing causes are foul air or 
food, debility from diseases, as those of the liver and kidneys, absorption of 
poisonous matters through a sore, as cracked heel in the horse, green buck- 
wheat as food, sudden suppression of the secretions of the skin, unhealthy 



THE HORSE THE SKIN. 629 

lodgings, proximity to decaying animal and vegetable matter. The excit- 
ing causes are local irritations, as from chafing in work, rubbing of harness, 
corroding medicines on the skin, bites and stings of insects, burns, scalds, 
dropsy, wounds, open sores exposed to accumulations of rotting manure or 
other matter. 

Sympto?ns. — The first symptom is usually a fever, followed by loss 
of appetite; dullness; quickened pulse and breath; hot skin; constipation; 
scanty, high-colored urine ; elevated temperature at the rectum ; then spread- 
ing, hot, tender, slimy, itching swelling, very often starting from some sore, 
though not always; the inflammation may extend to the underlying tissues, 
or may be dropsical in its character; the border of the swelling is abrupt; 
the skin is tense, pits on pressure, perhaps shows pimples and is more or 
less red, the shade being deeper on a clear, white skin. After some days 
either the swelling and redness subside, and the sores dry into scales which 
drop off and leave a dark-red and tender surface; or cracks appear with 
sores which have little tendency to heal. In the horse, the head, chest, 
belly and hind limbs are especially subject to a dropsical swelling. 

Treatment. — Rhus is one of the best remedies in the treatment of 
this disorder, especially when blisters form, accompanied by fever and a hot, 
rapidly -spreading swelling. Arsenicum should be given when cracked 
heel is the cause, and will be found to be a good general remedy, especially 
if pus has formed. Apply to the parts warm fomentations of a weak solu- 
tion of tincture of muriate of ammonia, or of sulphate of zinc, protecting 
the sore then from cold air. A dry application of zinc and starch is also 
recommended. Iodized adhesive plaster may also be of service, especially 
in checking the spread of the swelling. If matter has formed, let it out. 

GALLS. 

Galls are caused by a badly-fitting saddle or collar; by the harness or 
girth; by bad riding; by removing a saddle too soon after a ride, before 
the horse becomes cool. 

Treatment. — For saddle-galls, with deep bruising of the tissues, 
apply one part of arnica to nine of water once in four hours, with a soft rag 
or sponge, keeping the injured surface covered from exposure to the air 
and insects. If there be soft tumors arising from inflammation, open the 
swellings, squeeze out the contents, and put in a few drops of arnica tinc- 
ture, if the cause be friction of the saddle. When the swelling, from neg- 
lect or frequent recurrence, becomes hard and the skin thickened and half 
dead, the sore perhaps being partially separated all around from the healthy 
skin, the tumor may be cut out and the sore dressed with tincture of calen- 



630 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

dula, at the same time giving internally six drops of the same, thoroughly 
mixed with a little water. Equal parts of Venetian turpentine and lard 
make a good application; and equal parts of mercurial ointment and lard 
are beneficial. Of the three remedies the first is the best. Should the 
muscles of the back as well as the skin be injured, causing serous sacs in 
the skin, foment and apply arnica-lotion. This failing, lay open the sac 
and dress with calendula-lotion. Use care with the harness and saddle. 

WORMS IN THE SKIN. 

Worms in the skin are sometimes found in tumors, resulting from the 
gad-fly depositing its eggs. The tumor ma}^ be as large as a pigeon's egg, 
and more than one may be found. They occur mainly in the back and 
loins. To remove this trouble, put a few drops of carbolic-acid lotion 
where the eggs have been deposited, either before or after the hatching. 

BITES AND STINGS OF INSECTS. 

The irritation resulting from these may be relieved by applying exter- 
nally arnica-lotion. As a preventive of the biting, rub on the body, es- 
pecially the flanks, a strong infusion or tea of green elder-leaves. 




CHAPTER VII. 



THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

INFLAMMATION of the kidneys is not frequent, arid is caused by bad 
food; kiln-dried oats; mow-burnt hay; exposure to cold and wet; 
injuries from blows, weights and other sprains; frequent doses of 
c^p* strong medicines to promote the flow of urine, as cantharides, turpen- 
tine and nitre; gravel and other diseases. 

Symptoms. — Considerable fever; pain, indicated by looking at the 
loins, and by groans; loins tender; back arched; hind limbs stiff and far 
apart; horse stands still or moves stiffly and perhaps with lameness; fre- 




Position in Urinary Disorders in General. 



quent attempts to pass urine, the discharges being dark and scanty, some- 
times pussy and bloody. In advanced stages the pulse, at first full, hard 
and rapid, becomes weak and wiry; breathing quick and short; intense 

631 



THE HORSE THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 633 

thirst; dry, hot mouth; skin dry; strong-smelling sweat; constipation; still 
later, exhaustion, indifference, sleepiness, and death. 

This may be distinguished from inflammation of the neck of the bladder 
by the brown or nearly black urine, which is of about the natural color in 
the latter disease. If the hand be oiled and passed up the rectum, the 
bladder will be found considerably enlarged if it be inflamed, while it is 
empty and contracted in the disorder which we are now treating. 

Treatment. — In the first stages of fever, indicated by full, rapid 
pulse, hot, dry mouth and skin, rapid breathing, thirst, scanty urine, and 
pain in the loins, give aconite. This may be alternated with belladonna 
if relief be not given, or if there be hot loins, pain about the kidneys, indi- 
cated by the horse frequently looking anxiously at them, or if there be a 
wild, frightened look. Cantharis, if it has not previously been given, is 
beneficial for frequent passages of scanty urine, with difficult straining, and 
when the urine is tinged with blood. Rhus is demanded when sprains are 
the cause. This and arnica should also be applied externally. Camphor 
is useful when cantharis, given as Spanish-fly or otherwise, is the cause. If 
bad food be the cause, give nux vomica, the symptoms demanding it being 
unsuccessful efforts to pass urine, colicky pains, looking at the flanks, and 
constipation. Mercurius corrosivusis one of the best remedies in both acute 
and chronic cases, and its use is called for when the urine is scanty and 
passed with frequent urgings and great pain; it may be alternated with 
aconite or belladonna. A very common but pernicious course is a resort to 
diuretics, that is, stimulants to the action of the kidneys. These should not 
be used, for the scantiness of the urine which it is desired to correct is due 
to engorgement of the kidneys, and the diuretics will aggravate the en- 
gorgement. Free perspiration is the best means for freeing the blood of 
the poisonous matters retained in consequence of the obstruction to the 
kidneys. Apply warm fomentations to the loins. Give bran-mashes and 
scalded linseed for food. Mix the drinking-water with linseed-tea, enough 
to make it glutinous without being distasteful to the animal. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Inflammation of the bladder sometimes attends or follows inflamma- 
tion of the kidneys, or it may occur independently, caused by exposure to 
damp and cold; by injuries; by stone (see page 637); by giving nitre, 
Spanish-fly, or other strong medicines for the urinary organs. 

Symptoms. — Restlessness; mouth, throat and alimentary canal irri- 
tated and inflamed; difficult swallowing; hind legs tremble; testes drawn 
up; sexual excitement; mucous and bloody dung; rapid pulse; frequent 



634 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



attempts to pass urine are unfruitful, or only a few drops pass with pain and 
difficult}*, followed by a temporary cessation of pain; urine sometimes clear, 
at other times mixed with mucous or bloody matter, burning and irritating; 
the parts around the bladder are hot and tender, and this organ is found 
very painful when examined through the rectum. If the disease is not ar- 
rested, the bladder fills and swells, its neck opens and urine dribbles away; 
prostration follows, with sweats, paralysis of the hind quarters, and finally 
death. 




155. Test for Inflammation of the Bladder 



Treatment. — Give aconite for symptoms of fever; frequent, fruitless, 
painful attempts to pass urine; pain on pressure of the parts near the bladder; 
urine scanty, muddy, or mixed with blood. Cantharis is demanded by dis- 
tended bladder and tenderness of adjacent parts; mattery and mucous urine 
passed in drops, the pain increasing during such passages. Should cantharis 
fail, give nux vomica. Injections of anodynes into the bladder, by skillful 
hands, are very useful for relieving the inflammation, and the following 
will be especially valuable: To one pint of gum-arabic water add one 
drachm of fluid hydrastia and one drachm of tincture of opium; inject this 
into the bladder luke-warm. In the general care, give freely of linseed or 
slippery-elm tea, or a strong solution of gum-arabic. Scalded linseed in 
bran-mashes is the best diet. Guard against the exciting causes. 

SPASM OF THE NECK OF THE BLADDER. 



This occurs as the result of prolonged retention of urine in horses that 
are worked or driven to excess, and as a consequence of chill when the 



THE HORSE- -THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 635 

animal is heated, or as an attendant of colic and irritation of the neck of 
the bladder. It is most common in males. 

Symptoms. — Frequent efforts to urinate, the urine passing in a few 
drops or dribbling away with some pain and straining; tenderness of the 
back; the hand passed up the rectum feels the distended bladder, the neck 
being tense and firm, not distended as in stone or gravel. If the bladder is 
not relieved of the urine, it is liable to burst and be followed by inflamma- 
tion of the peritoneum (peritonitis), an issue which is however less common 
in the horse than in the ox and sheep. 

Treatment. — The treatment consists in the use of antispasmodics, 
either in the rectum or mouth, chloral hydrate, belladonna, hyoscyamus and 
tobacco being the best. These may be injected into the rectum or given 
internally, or both. If these measures fail to relieve, a suitable catheter 
should be used by skillful hands to draw off the urine. Sometimes the 
spreading of fresh bedding under the horse will promote the flow of urine. 

EVERSION OR FALLING OF THE BLADDER. 

This can occur only in the female, and is the result of severe straining 
during irritation of the bladder. It is most liable to ensue from over- 
distension, difficult parturition, or paralysis. 

Symptoms. — The animal strains violently; between the lips of the 
vulva is seen a red, rounded mass, upon whose surface, near the neck, may 
be seen the mouths of two canals which convey the urine from the bladder, 
and from these mouths the urine escapes in drops. 

Treatment. — Return the bladder to its place as follows : Wash the 
protruding mass in warm water, and oil it well; then oil the hands, press 
in the center of the mass, gently pushing it upward. If the neck of the 
bladder is swollen and inflamed, the greater care should be taken to avoid 
injury or rupture in its coats. If great straining continues after this opera- 
tion and threatens a recurrence, a surgeon should apply a truss or other 
mechanical appliance to retain the bladder firmly in its place. 

ALBUMINURIA.— BRIGHT'S DISEASE. 

This consists in an inflammation of the kidneys, attended with shed- 
ding of the coat and finally structural change of the kidneys. It may be 
either acute or chronic. The urine may contain albumen as a result of 
inflammatory disorders, and yet Bright's Disease not be present. The 
latter is always attended with albumen, but all cases of the presence of 
albumen are not Bright's Disease. 



636 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Symptoms. — The urine ii thick, ropy, and contains parts of the lining 
of the urinary tubes which the microscope will detect; when it is boiled, 
or subjected to the action of dilute nitric acid, it coagulates into whitish 
flakes which settle at the bottom of a test-tube (see page 216). The animal 
is awkward behind in gait, with indisposition to lie down, and with more 
or less tenderness over the loin<. The iisease is usually fatal, the animal 
dying with dropsy or uraemic poisoning, though prompt and efficient 
treatment has cured some case 5 . 

Treatment. — Diuretics, that is, means of promoting increased secre- 
tion and passage of urine, should not be used, but rather such expedients, 
both medicinal and general, as will relieve the kidneys of the performance 




157. A H:rse :::: Ai: v:-:::-": v= Urine. 

of their usual functions, and reduce the inflammation. Among internal 
remedies belladonna and mercurius corrosivus are the best; thev should be 
used in alternation and r^ersisted in until the kidnevs are relieved and the 
flow of urine becomes free, thev being particularlv demanded if the urine 
is bioodv. Warm fomentations and mustard should be applied about the 
loins. Keep the pores of the skin open by studious cleanliness and free 
perspiration, but guard against draughts and other influences likely t. 
induce colds. Restrict the diet to oatmeal gruels and the like, giving bran- 
mashes to keep the bowels open. See u Urinary System," page 543. 

DIABETES— EXCESSIVE URINE. 

This causes great prostration, and mav lead to glanders. If the urine 
be clear, containing no sugar, the disorder is known as diabetes insipidus. 
If the urine is sugary, as is rarely the case, the disease is called diabetes 



THE HORSE- THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 637 

mellitus. The chief causes are musty or mow-burnt hay, kiln-dried oats, 
bran, and other dry or bad food; impure water; indigestion; chronic disease 
of the kidneys; strangles; the use of " condition balls," turpentine, nitre, 
and the much-advertised specifics for horses; excessive drinking; certain 
plants in the pasture; cold and wet. Increased urine may result from ner- 
vous disorders, from change of food, and other causes, but should this be 
only temporary, no attention need be paid to it. 

Symptoms. — Excessive thirst; impaired, capricious or depraved appe- 
tite; dry and clammy mouth; white and furred tongue; offensive breath; 
dry skin and rough, staring coat; deranged digestion; constipation; urine 
clear, or somewhat milky, and passed in very great quantities; the horse is 
dull, weak, out of condition, and sweats easily; glanders may ensue and 
prove fatal, or the horse may die from the diabetes any time within a year. 

Treatment. — Phosphoric acid should be given for profuse colorless 
or milky urine; great thirst; sweats and loss of flesh ensuing from light 
exercise. Give arsenicum for weakness and emaciation; dry mouth; exces- 
sive thirst; sugary urine. Nux vomica is demanded for depraved appetite; 
poor digestion; profuse, frequent, limpid urine; dung covered with mucus. 
If the urine be frequent and copious, with red, sand-like sediment, give 
lycopodium. If the urine be copious, more so at night, muddy and offen- 
sive, or if it be brown-red, or if blood comes from the bladder, give mer- 
curius. Stop at once the use of any food that may have caused the dis- 
order, especially avoiding musty or very dry articles. 

SCANTY URINE.— RETENTION OF URINE. 

These disorders may result from inflammation of some urinary organ; 
from some obstruction forming in an organ; from excessive dung accumu- 
lated in the rectum; from falling of the womb; from diminished secretion, 
owing to the perspiration incident to hot weather or hard work. 

Treatment. — If the cause be some other disease, that must be 
treated. Should the horse be otherwise in apparently good health aside 
from decreased urination, give bryonia or arsenicum three times a day. 
Should the urine be retained in the bladder, which may be known by 
passing the hand up the rectum to the bladder, it should be drawn off with 
a catheter in skillful hands, not by one who lacks experience. 

STONE.— GRAVEL. 

This is a deposit of solid earthy matter in the urinary organs, some- 
times only sandy and gritty, sometimes in the form of a stone, which may 



638 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



be small, or, if in the bladder, may weigh several pounds. Among its 
most probable causes are earthy particles in the food and water, as grass 
grown on limy soils or those supplied with phosphates as fertilizers; water 
charged with salts of lime and magnesia; dry feeding; scanty urine from 
any cause; perhaps hard water. 

Syi?ifito?ns. — Stone in the kidneys may be suspected, but not positively 
known, from tenderness of the loins, colicky pains, discharge of sand and 
blood with the urine. Stone in the bladder will be indicated by an awkward, 
straggling gait, with hind legs apart ; frequent efforts at urination resulting 
in scanty and difficult discharges; the urine sometimes comes out suddenly, 
or may be as suddenly stopped, and sometimes it dribbles out and makes 
the legs and thighs sore; colicky pains; occasional discharges of blood and 
thick sediment. The stone, if large, may be felt by passing the hand up 
the rectum to the bladder. Stones in the canal leading from the bladder 
to the pelvis will cause colicky pains and stoppage of urine, with the gen- 
eral symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys. The foreskin mav be 
affected, causing distress in urination or actual stoppage of urine. 

Treatment. — The remedies laid down for Inflammation of the Blad- 
der should be adopted to relieve the disorder, though it can be cured only 
by a surgeon who will break or cut the stones, when of sufficient size. 
Give soft water for drinking, with linseed-tea or decoctions of mucilage 
freely administered. Keep the organs clean, and if sores are found, wash 
with a lotion of calendula, one part to eight of water. 

BLOODY URINE. 



Bloody urine is not uncommon. It may be caused by some of the 
urinary diseases before named; blows; strains from heavy loads, jumping 

and other causes; the use of 
Spanish-fly; foaling; the eating 
of poisonous plants, or the twigs 
of young trees: very rank herb- 
age; swampy pasture; damp 
weather; occasionally hot days 
and cold, damp nights; anthrax 
and other diseases. 

Symptoms. — Urine red with 
blood, or has clots of blood, the 
latter part of a discharge being 
more noticeably bloody than the 
first. If the kidneys be affected, the horse stands in a singular posture; 
if the bladder be involved, the gait is stiff, and more blood passes than in 




157. A Horse Suffering from Bloody Urine. 



THE HORSE THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

kidney-complications. If injuries be the cause, the loins are painful, and 
clots of blood pass, with or without urine. If vegetable poison be the cause, 
the feverish symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys are present, with 
scanty, reddish urine, followed by painful, bloody, burning urine. 

Treatment. — If the cause be some other disorder, treat that disorder 
as directed under the proper section. If a blow about the loins or a strain 
be the cause, and blood is mixed with the urine, give arnica internally and 
apply externally. Throw cold water over the loins and inject it up the 
rectum. Rest should be given. Give aconite for feverish symptoms and 
strong urine. Cantharis is needed for forcible, painful efforts to urinate, 
with blood or bloody urine passed. Turpentine is desirable for clotted 
blood passing from the bladder, and is useful if cantharis fails. Give soft 
food; also linseed-tea freely. If hurtful plants be the cause, remove the 
horse to another locality. 

FOUL. 

Foul is a term applied to horses that experience great trouble in 
urinating, chiefly in dry, hot, dusty weather. It is caused by a clogging of 
the sheath of the penis with dirt and urine. 

Symptoms. — The horse evinces much uneasiness; shifts the weight 
from one side to the other; stands with the hind legs apart; makes fre- 
quent efforts to urinate, but stops suddenly as if suffering from acute and 
darting pains. The urine dribbles away, and is more or less foul-looking 
and offensive; the sheath is swollen; the region of the bladder is distended 
from the retention of urine, and is sensitive to the touch. 

Treatment. — The only cure is in a thorough cleansing of the sheath 
with the hand, warm water and a syringe. 

GONORRHOEA. 

This sometimes occurs in stallions and mares after sexual intercourse, 
and sometimes is infectious. 

Syfmtoms. — In stallions, swelling and ulcers about the penis; swell- 
ing of the testicles and glands in the loins. In mares, swelling and itching 
in the vulva and vagina, where vesicles form, followed by ulcers. Either 
sex shows a stiff walk; loss of flesh and vivacity; death from putrid fever 
or possibly apoplexy. 

Treatment. — For acute and violent inflammation give five or six 
drops of aconite once in three or four hours. After the violence of the 
inflammation has been reduced with aconite, give cantharis in its stead. 



640 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

After the action of these two remedies mercurius will usually complete 
the cure. After pus has begun to discharge, a wash of permanganate of 
potassa may be injected into the urethra. Mix a half-drachm of perman- 
ganate of potassa in a pint of rain or distilled water, and use once or twice 
a day. Keep the parts clean and free from any obstruction. 

ABORTION. 

Abortion is not common among mares. It is caused by over-exertion 
of any kind; strains; blows; falls; very poor and insufficient or very stimu- 
lating food; inflammation of the bowels. It occasionally appears to be 
communicated by sympathy, similarly to an epidemic. 

Sy?nfito?ns. — The approach is marked by loss of vivacity and appetite; 
hollow flanks; sinking of the abdominal enlargement; gradual lessening or 
entire loss of the foal's movements; the breathing grows obstructed ; yellow- 
ish matter passes from the vagina; straining; expulsion of the foal. 

Treatment. — When abortion is threatened from fright, strain or 
other cause, opium should be given, and the animal be kept at complete 
rest. This may be followed by viburnum, prunifolium, caulophyllum, or 
cimicifuga, in teaspoonful doses of the tincture every half-hour, hour, or 
two hours, until all danger is passed. When abortion has taken place and 
there is great feebleness, with a copious flow of blood and violent straining, 
ergot should be given. Cinchona is good for restoring the strength after 
an abortion. Sabina is needed in case of a discharge of bright-colored or 
coagulated blood before or during the abortion. Tincture of camphor has 
been successful in preventing abortion when the sexual instinct has been 
morbidly susceptible, and when the spasmodic action of the womb has ap- 
peared to be the direct cause. A due regard to suitable diet and pasturage, 
proper housing, bedding, ventilation, cleanliness and exercise will go far in 
preventing the misfortune. If an animal has aborted, she should not be 
put to the male until after several seasons of heat. Keep mares that are 
with foal away from slaughter-houses and decomposing animal matter in 
general. Shut away from the smell of the abortion-discharge all animals 
that are pregnant, whether mares or not, as it renders them liable to abortion. 

DIFFICULT FOALING OR PARTURITION. 

The symptoms preceding parturition are quick breathing, swelling 
of the udder, with a sudden gush of milk, dropping of the belly, external 
swelling of the bearing and adjacent parts, with a shiny, glossy-red or yel- 
lowish discharge from the bearing. If these be slow in progress to labor- 



THE HORSE THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 641 

pains, and the pains and throes be long and violent, or the throes continue 
after the expulsion of the after-birth, with great discharge of blood, medi- 
cinal treatment is needed. So too, if the labor has been assisted, and if any 
laceration of the parts has taken place, that must be treated. 

Treatment. — When the pains are too light or subside too much by 
spells, give ten drops of pulsatilla every two or three hours. If they are at- 
tended with convulsive movements, give ergot, especially if they cease alto- 
gether before delivery. Nature has made the best provision for this func- 
tion, and the least interference the better, either in medicine or otherwise. 

FLOODING AFTER DELIVERY. 

After parturition flooding may ensue, either from lack of a sufficiently 
rapid contraction of the womb, or from injuries incurred during a delivery, 
especially if it has been difficult, prolonged, or has been assisted by an at- 
tendant. 

Treatment. — Put a bandage tightly around the belly; pour cold 
water on the loins and inject it into the vagina and rectum. Use arnica ex- 
ternally; also internally in alternation with ergot or sabina. Quinine will 
assist in recovering strength after the bleeding. Keep the mare quiet, in a 
cool, well-ventilated stable, free from draughts. 

REMOVAL OF THE AFTER-BIRTH. 

If this does not come away immediately after delivery, give a few 
doses of ergot. The introduction of the hand or injection of warm water 
is not advisable, except in extraordinary cases. If the mare continues to 
strain when the after-birth has been removed, give a dose of opium. As a 
preventive of the retention of the after-birth, animals in poor condition 
should be fed warm, sloppy food for ten days previous to parturition. 

INVERSION OF THE WOMB OR VAGINA. 

If the womb should. protrude immediately after the expulsion of the 
foal, gently place it back, temporarily bind the parts, and give five drops of 
arnica every three hours. Keep the animal perfectly quiet and give only 
light and nourishing food for two or three days. The vagina may protrude 
in a similar way, in old mares or in fillies. It may be caused by general 
weakness, or by standing in a stall that is too low behind. Treat as for 
inversion of the womb, keeping the animal's hind feet higher than usual, and 
building up the system with the best of food. 
41 



642 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER. 

This disorder may result in hardening, ulceration or mortification of 
the udder, and arises from blows on the organ, lying on cold, hard or sharp 
objects, cold air, contracting of colds in any way, too hearty food, indiges- 
tion, milk remaining in the bag too long, some articles of food. 

Symptoms. — General fever; udder hot, swollen, hard and tender in 
some part. Then the symptoms may subside and the natural state ensue; 
or the swelling may soften and blood and matter be mixed with the milk; 
the udder, if the trouble continues, may all be hard, permanently useless, or 
be full of ulcers; or mortification may set in and part of the organ be lost. 
During the progress of the disorder there may be shivering; strong, 
quick pulse; rapid breath; constipation; scanty or suppressed urine. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for fever, in the earlier stages. Bella- 
donna is needed if the teat or udder be hot, red, swollen and tender, and the 
milk stopped. Phytolacca is very beneficial, especially if used in the early 
stages; it will often check the disease, avert ulceration, and restore the 
milk. Give five drops in a little meal every three hours, and bathe the 
udder with a lotion made of one ounce of the tincture to a pint of warm soft 
water. Mercurius removes the hardness which follows the formation of 
pus, and also acts well in the beginning as a preventive of suppuration. 
Silicea is desirable if the healing process is slow and ulcers remain. Pre- 
vention is the best treatment and may be effected by relieving the gland of 
the milk. To do this, apply to the udder camphorated spirits, weak iodine, 
or phytolacca-ointment, rubbing long and thoroughly, and draw out the 
milk three times a day. A hungry calf may be used to draw the milk. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE VAGINA. 

This may arise during " heat," or from blows, copulation, or parturi- 
tion. 

Symptoms. — If this occurs during heat, there is a discharge from the 
opening, of a grayish-white, then yellowish-white color. In other forms, 
the discharge is thin, burning, and often causes much straining. In severe 
cases, general fever-symptoms ensue. 

Treatment. — Keep the parts clean and inject warm water several 
times a day. If the discharge continues after inflammation has subsided, 
inject hydrastis-lotion, or a lotion of permanganate of potassa, as in gonor- 
rhoea. For fever-symptoms give aconite; for straining, cantharis; for ab- 
scesses or ulcers, mercurius. Injections should be blood-warm, for cold ones 
are liable to aggravate the trouble. 



THE HORSE THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. (343 

INFLAMMATION OF THE URETHRA. 

Inflammation of the urethra may result from a catarrhal condition of 
the urinary canal; from the administration of cantharides or croton, or (in 
stallions) from frequent copulation. Its symptoms are mattery discharge 
from the canal; frequent, painful and difficult urination; perhaps swelling 
and ulceration. Treat as for gonorrhoea, which was noticed above. 

CONFINED PENIS. 

i 

Inability to protrude this organ may result from internal warts or ab- 
scesses; from swelling of the sheath; from kicks or blows. The urine may 
collect in the folds of the skin and cause swelling and distress, known as foul. 

Treatment. — Remove warts by tying ligatures around them and 
leaving them until they fall off. Abscesses should be fomented with warm 
water. If blows or kicks be the cause, give arnica internally and exter- 
nally. In other cases, inject two or three times a day between the penis 
and sheath warm water or hydrastis-lotion. If foul is the cause, treat as di- 
rected under that head in one of the preceding articles. 

PROTRUSION OF THE PENIS. 

Protrusion of the penis, with inability to draw it within the sheath, 
may be due to swelling of the penis after castration, to debility or paralysis 
of the organ, the latter being the more usual cause in old geldings, though 
it may attend any general debility of the system. 

Treatment. — If injuries be the cause, give arnica externally and in- 
ternally. For feverish symptoms and inflammation aconite and mercurius 
are needed. For debilitated organ give quinine and nux vomica. Cold 
water injected into the sheath may give relief. 

CASTRATION. 

This is not the place to give the different methods of performing cas- 
tration, as that is left to the operator, as well as the question as to the age 
at which it should take place. But it may be generally remarked that if 
the animal's head, neck and shoulders are well developed, it may take place 
earlier than under different conditions. Delicate colts should have nourish- 
ing food and outdoor exercise for several days previous to the operation, 
though no preparation is necessary for the healthy sucking colt. If he has 
been weaned, he should not have his usual bulk of food and water for 



644 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



several days previous, but should not he starved. Horses that have been in 
training or have been high-fed should res»t several weeks previously, their 
food being gradually reduced. The disorders arising from castration 
should be treated by the veterinary surgeon, though the following directions 
can be profitably followed by the general reader: 

Treatment. — Should the bleeding be considerable, bathe the part 
freely in extract of hamamelis every half-hour until the bleeding stops, then 
three times a day until the parts are wholly healed. If the sheath be 
swollen, it will usually resume its normal condition without treatment; but 
if it should not, and the parts become inflamed and tender, with signs of 
general fever, give aconite every few hours. If much laceration has taken 
place, bathe the parts three times daily with a lotion of a tablespoonful of 
tincture of arnica to a pint of water. If lock-jaw, fistula or peritonitis re- 
sult from castration, use the treatment for these as given before. 





CHAPTER VIII. 
THE EYE AND EAR. 

SIMPLE INFLAMMATION OF THE EYE. 

^HIS is the most common disease of the eye to which the horse is 
subject, and may affect merely the outer lining, or may involve the 
whole structure. Its causes are catarrh, bad food, damp or poorly- 
^p^ ventilated stables, injuries from a stick or whip, the bite of another 
horse, hay-seed, dust, in-growing eyelash, or other mechanical agencies. 

Symptoms, — The horse, in apparent health before, has slight symptoms 
of fever; the lids of one eye or both swollen or half-closed; scalding tears 
run down the face and irritate the skin; great pain caused by the light, and 
consequent reluctance to open the eyes. Later, a gummy, thickish, 
mucous secretion at the corners glues the lids together; the membrane 
covering the balls becomes red and covered with a network of fine blood- 
vessels; about the third day the transparent front part of the ball grows 
dim and muddy, sometimes in spots, sometimes the whole surface, seemingly 
covered with a bluish-white film; the disease continuing, the transparent 
front of the eye is seriously affected, and the whole eye suffers. In acute 
cases considerable fever-symptoms appear. 

Treatment. — One of the best remedies is aconite, which should be 
given at the beginning when the membrane attached to the eyeball is blood- 
shot, the eyes are watery, the lids nearly closed, and particularly if feverish- 
ness be present. When the inflammation has been reduced by aconite and 
the case is yet marked by copious and scalding tears, sensitiveness to 
the light, swollen and closed eyelids, red membrane of the eye, and quick- 
ened pulse, belladonna should be given, alone, or in alternation with 
aconite. Mercurius corrosivus is needed when the secretion in the corners 
glues the lids, and when the transparent front of the ball becomes dim or 
cloudy. Euphrasia is often useful for symptoms which seem to call for 
belladonna and yet have not been removed by its use, or if after the use of 
the same for several days the transparent front is still dim and cloudy. The 
euphrasia may also be used as a wash. 

645 



646 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



In the various inflammations and catarrhal affections of the eyes local 
applications are of great value, though caution is needed in their use, especially 
in that of nitrate of silver or sugar of lead. Some 
cases may require these medicines, but simpler arti- 
cles will usually answer all necessities, and are attended 
with less danger. When the eye is inflamed and 
gives out a mucous discharge, pulverized sugar or 
salt, blown into it through a quill once or twice a 
day, will often give prompt relief. A wash made of 
one part of fluid hydrastia and four of water is excel- 
lent. In the general care, examine the eye to dis- 
cover hay, dirt, seeds, and other foreign matter which 
adheres to the upper eyelid, and is detected bv turn- 
ing the lid back over the little finger. If a portion 
of the front part or of the membrane of the eye has 
been removed by a blow, a drop or two of castor-oil 
or glycerine may be put upon the wound. Keep the 
light subdued so as not to pain the eye, guarding against cold and 
impure air. Many good horses are reduced in value by neglect of seeds or 
grit in the eve, however trivial it may seem. 




ijS. Method of Protect- 
ing the Eyes and Ap- 
plying Lotions. 



PERIODIC INFLAMMATION.- MOOX-BLIXDXESS. 



The latter of these names is used because the periodic attacks are bv 
some supposed to occur with the changes of the moon. This disease is an 
inflammation of the entire ball of the eye, without any apparent cause 
externally, and if neglected is often incurable and ends in total blindness. 
It abates, recurs, and may shift back and forth from one eye the other. It 
is often inherited, though it may be undeveloped in one generation and 
reappear in the next. In these cases it may be promoted, in others it is 
caused, by the impure air of close, dirty, dark stables; poor food; cold or 
wet; violent exertion, as in running; frequent sudden transitions from a dark 
stable to glaring sunlight; undue supply of blood in the system; congestion 
affecting the head, caused perhaps by pressure of a collar which prevents 
a flow of the blood from the head; changes from cold to warm stables; 
also from pasture to high feeding and heavy work; foul litter, which is even 
worse than a glaring light; teething; simple inflammation of the eye may 
cause it. Damp soils, marshy pasture, and excessive moisture in the atmos- 
phere are predisposing causes, especially in horses that are subject to the 
disease by heredity. Horses that have soft, lax, flabby muscles, thin skin, 
flat feet, and that lack energy in work, are predisposed to it; likewise those 



THE HORSE THE EYE AND EAR. 647 

that have small sunken eyes ("pig-eyes"). Harness-horses are more liable 
to it than saddle-horses, and young ones more than the older. 

Symptoms. — Flow of tears; lining attached to the ball is red; in the 
morning the eye is almost closed and full of tears; eyelids swollen; pain from 
the light; great reluctance to allow the eye to be opened; corner of the 
eye red; the transparent part in front grows muddy and opaque; pupil 
very small; iris dim, speckled with white, covered with lymph, pus or 
blood; hot, dry mouth and quick pulse; constipation; scanty urine; on the 
third to the sixth day congested blood-vessels run into the edges of the 
transparent portion; later still this naturally transparent portion passes from a 
yellowish-white to a greenish or brownish; sometimes the crystalline lens be- 
comes opaque and cataracts form ; the iris may be affected with inflammation in 
frequent attacks and great irritability, though blindness may not soon inter- 
vene; occasionally the interior of the eye becomes yellow and muddy, the eye 
then shrinking away. In favorable cases the symptoms begin to disappear 
from the fourth to the tenth day, the eye becoming healthy. An attack 
may last from four days to six weeks, each one being shorter than the pre- 
ceding. Apparent recovery is often interrupted by a relapse or change of 
the attack to the other eye. Between attacks the eye may appear well, but it 
is not; the eyelids may form nearly or quite a right angle; the iris may 
remain contracted and lose its luster. An attack will recur upon a return 
to the usual food, upon exposure to wind, cold and rain, or upon a return to 
a dirty or badly-ventilated stable. Traces will almost invariably remain 
after a so-called cure; hence the importance of critically examining the eye 
before purchasing. 

Treatment. — Aconite should be given in alternation with belladonna 
every three or four hours at the beginning of the disease if fever is present, 
tears abundant, eyelids swollen, and the eye blood-shot. Continue the 
belladonna after the subsidence of the fever-symptoms which demand 
aconite, if the membrane of the eye remains red, tears abundant, and local 
inflammation stubborn. Throughout the whole attack, until a cure is 
effected, apply to the eye a lotion of belladonna, two grains of the extract 
to one ounce of water; or bind on the eye a cloth soaked in the same. 
Euphrasia has effected speedy cures, used in the same manner as a wash, 
and given internally. Mercurius corrosivus should be alternated with 
belladonna when the eye is brownish or whitish, and as long as the humors 
are dim or the naturally transparent part is opaque. When there is a low state 
of the system, with a weakened constitution, and when recurrence is sus- 
pected, give arsenicum. Some cases require a general tonic treatment, and 
nux vomica, iron, ginger or Peruvian bark will be found useful. Surgical 
measures are sometimes necessary, especially for inflammation and hardening 



648 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



of the iris. In the way of general care, keep the stable clean, well drained 
and ventilated, and exclude the light. Give good but not stimulating food. 
Since recovery is often effected within a very short time after the removal of 
the wolf-teeth it has been supposed that that operation is the cause of the 
cure, but it has no such virtue or connection. Owing to the hereditary 
tendency of this form of inflammation care should be taken in the breeding 
to avoid all animals that are afflicted with the disorder. 

CATARACT. 

An opaque body, white, gray or yellow, fills the pupil, shutting out 
the whole or a part of the vision. The lens alone is usually affected, though 
sometimes the enveloping sac is also involved. One eye or both may be 
affected, generally both, in old horses, in which blindness is usually caused, 
growing more confirmed as age advances. If the disorder is caused by 
an injury to one eye, the other usually continues sound. The cataract can be 
detected by bringing the horse to the light and looking into the eye. The 
causes are repeated attacks of inflammation; blows or wounds; imperfect 
nutrition, especially in old horses. 

Symptoms. — In a good light, in place of a clear, transparent pupil, may 
be seen a few white, gray or yellow specks, nearly round, with irregular 
edges; or there may be a mass of dull-white matter, half-transparent and 
mottled. The cataract may be in the center of the lens and scarcely 





Partial Cataract. 



160. Complete Cataract. 



visible. White streaks may diverge from the center, especialy in old horses. 
The lens becomes more convex than before, sometimes hidden by a vellowish 
substance which fills the pupil (being then called false cataract). In 
confirmed cases the cataract may be seen at a distance; in recent cases it 
may be very obscure, when its discovery may be facilitated by enlarging 
the pupil by applying atropin to it (a solution of one grain to half an 
ounce of water). Besides the appearance of the cataract, its presence may 
be suspected from the horse showing an impaired sight, being timid, alarmed 



THE HORSE THE EYE AND EAR. 049 

at objects familiar before, shying at strange vehicles, looking suspiciously at 
whatever he meets; and if he sees better in the evening or in a mild light 
than in the sunshine. 

A whitish-gray speck, or more than one, may form upon the lens of the 
eye or its enveloping sac, without any apparent previous inflammation, or 
after an injury from the removal of a piece of the front part of the eye. 
These are known as "false cataracts." They may disappear without 
treatment, though cannabis is a valuable aid. 

Treatment. — When cataract is suspected, sulphur and cannabis may 
be given to ward it off. When it is confirmed, it can not be cured in the 
horse, though the use of phosphorated oil has been followed by good 
results. Mix two grains of phosphorus in one ounce of almond oil and 
put a drop into the eye once a day for several months. In man it has been 
cured by removing the lens and using glasses instead, but this does not 
wholly restore the sight, and imperfect vision from removal of the natural 
lens will cause more alarm and nervousness in the horse than an inability to 
see an object at all. Cataract that is threatened by Moon-Blindness may 
be prevented by a proper use of the expedients named for that disorder. 

OBSCURED VISION.— AMAUROSIS. 

This is a disease of the optic nerve, or the adjacent part of the brain, 
causing partial or total blindness. Its causes are excess of light; a blow on 
the head; injury to the eyeball; tumor pressing against the brain or optic 
nerve; apoplexy; bleeding from castration; stomach staggers; pregnancy. 

Symptoms. — These are usually obscure, and generally appear suddenly; 
the horse is cautious in his movements; steps high; stumbles or runs 
against any object in his way; throws up his head; moves his ears back- 
ward and forward, as if to catch any sound to guide him. On careful 
examination the eye stares; sometimes has a glassy appearance; pupil 
unnaturally large, and round instead of oblong, contracting slowly, and 
not at all in later stages; the iris shrinks to a small band around the pupil. 
An unnaturally large, round pupil should create suspicion, and the horse 
should be taken to the light and the lids drawn shut for some minutes, then 
suddenly opened. If the pupil does not readily contract from the glaring 
light, the presence of the disease is at once known. 

Treatment. — -Treatment is usually unavailing. If stomach staggers 
or other disease be the cause, that disease should be treated. Since the 
disorder is due to nervous affection, remedies which act on the nerves will 
be useful in some cases. Strychnia, nitrate of silver, or a blister on the 
cheek or behind the ears may be used with benefit. 



650 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

PTERYGIUM. 

Pterygium is a thickening of the tissue forming the membrane that 
joins the eyeballs and lids, and usually extends from the inner corner 
toward the transparent front part. It is not uncommon among horses that 
are exposed to the weather and dusty roads during long journeys. It is 
caused by heat, dust and wind, as a rule. 

Treatment. — For inflammation with formation of pus or pus-like 
tears, give conium or euphrasia. One-tenth of a grain of nitrate of silver 
ground with sugar may be attended with the best results, but it should be 
continued for some time. Nitrate of silver is not to be applied as a caustic. 
To prevent the occurrence of pterygium, gently wash the eyes with cold 
water after a long journey on dusty roads, first letting the horse cool. 

WORM IN THE EYE. 

Small worms, nearly an inch long, cylindrical, half-transparent, in size 
and color corresponding to white sewing-thread, are sometimes found in 
the horse's eye. The cause is not certainly known. 

Symptoms. — Deep-seated inflammation, usually in one eye only; the 
membrane joining the ball and lids is very much inflamed and tinged with 
blood ; the transparent front of the eye becomes cloudy and obscured ; closed 
eyelids; pain from the light. The worm, on careful examination, may be 
seen floating in the aqueous humor, and though it may not occasion acute 
pain, it will destroy the eye if allowed to remain many days. 

Treatment. — A veterinary surgeon should puncture the cornea just 
below the center with a lancet or trocar. The aqueous humor escapes, and 
usually the worm with it. The humor will collect by the next day, when 
the operation should be repeated if the first attempt has not been successful. 

POLYPUS IN THE EYE. 

Occasionally small polypous excrescences grow on the ball or lids, 
sometimes resulting from a slight accidental breaking of the membrane, 
sometimes spontaneously. Similar growths may appear on the transparent 
front portion of the eye from like causes. 

Treatment. — The growths should oe removed with a delicate pair 
of scissors and the parts from which they are cut be then touched with 
some caustic. Any resulting fever may be treated for a short time with 
aconite and belladonna in alternation. Use mild washes, as in Simple 
Inflammation of the Eyes, which w;is previously considered. 



THE HORSE — THE EYE AND EAR. 651 

ULCERATION AND THICKENING OF THE EYELIDS. 

Ulceration of the margins of the eyelids should be treated externally 
with causticum, putting five drops of the tincture in an ounce of water and 
applying from time to time until the ulcers disappear. An ointment made 
of two grains of red oxide of mercury and one drachm of vaseline is 
excellent. 

Thickening of the Eyelids may be treated by giving internally calcarea 
carbonica or silicea. If it is due to granulations on the inside of the lid, apply 
with a camel's-hair brush a lotion made of one-half drachm of tannic acid 
and one ounce of glycerine, using it once a day until a cure is effected. 

WARTS AND CALLOUS FORMATIONS. 

When such formations appear on the eyelids they should be treated 
with nitric acid, mixing ten drops in an ounce of water and applying night 
and morning. The mercury-ointment mentioned for Ulceration of the 
Eyelids is also good. It may be necessary to remove them with a knife or 
caustic. 

PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS. 

Young horses are specially subject to blindness as a result of hard 
driving or work, and one eye or both may be afflicted. Old horses are 
similarly affected, but not so frequently. When blindness is feared from 
such causes, danger may be averted by putting six drops of Fowler's 
Solution of arsenic on a little sugar or meal, and giving two or three times 
a day. Give easily digested food and perfect rest. If the over- exertion 
has been continued some time, it may be too late to prevent the blindness; 
but in such cases the above remedy may be given in the morning, and a 
like dose of nux vomica in the evening for a considerable time. 

THE EAR. 

The ear of the horse is subject to but few diseases so far as we know, 
The external ear may become inflamed as the result of a blow, and be 
attended with an abscess which causes pain, and which it may be necessary 
to open. When the ear has become so injured, give arnica internally 
and apply it externally. 

Deafness is not very common, and little can be said of its specific 
causes, symptoms or location. Hence remedies can not be named here. 



CHAPTER IX. 
THE EXTREMITIES. 

FORMATION OF JOINTS. 

J^OINTS are formed of bones which fit each other on uneven surfaces, 
•^wB the cavities and elevations mutually corresponding, with an interven- 
ffljl m g smooth, elastic substance, called cartilage, which prevents fric- 
tion of the surfaces, and relieves the jar that would otherwise occur 
from walking on hard roads. This cartilage is covered with a fine " syno- 
vial " membrane which secretes an albuminous and oily fluid that acts as 
oil to prevent friction. Strong flexible substances, fibrous in texture, called 
ligaments, are the chief bonds to hold the parts of the joints together. 
Some joints are further strengthened with tendons and muscles. Small 
closed sacs, called " bursas mucosas," situated between the surfaces of the 
joints, secrete a fluid similar to that furnished by the synovial membrane 
named above, to which membrane they are similar in structure. * 

SYNOVITIS. 

Synovitis is an inflammation of the synovial membranes. The in- 
flamed membranes do not exceed a certain size, do not burst, and do not be- 
come well without treatment, but may remain in the same condition for 
years. It affects the knee, fetlock (then called "wind galls," which see ), 
but generally the hock (then called " bog spavin " and "thorough-pin," 
which see). Among its causes are exposure to cold and heat; sprains; 
friction of joints from quick work on hard roads; rheumatic fever. 

Sy??ipto??is. — Lameness immediately followed by swelling of some 
joints (not of the surrounding fibrous texture, as in rheumatism); a fluid 
exudes from the joint, at first usually serous, without the marked fever 
which attends the beginning of muscular rheumatism; later, lymph es- 
capes and the joint is permanently enlarged, or less frequently the joint 
becomes stiff and immobile, baffling all treatment. 

Treatment. — Aconite is the most effectual remedv, both internallv 

652 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. (553 

and externally, to reduce inflammation and prevent effusions from the joint, 
or any structural damage to the joint. Continue it as long as fever-symp- 
toms or local pains remain. After the second or third day the aconite will 
probably have reduced the active symptoms, leaving the swelling of the 
joints and slight lameness; in this case give bryonia. Bathe the affected 
joints three times a day, a half-hour each time, with warm water; then ap- 
ply to them, when they are dry, one-half ounce of arnica in six ounces of 
water, well rubbed in. It is said by good authority that veratrum viride 
is superior to this, applied with a brush five or six times a day to the joints. 

BOG SPAVIN AND THOROUGH-PIN. 

Bog Spavin is a soft, elastic swelling on the front of the interior fart 
of the upper hock-joint, where the ligaments lie far apart. It is not at- 
tended with the acute inflammation which marks synovitis. It may be 
constitutional, but is usually caused by over-work in traveling or in the 
harness, especially in young horses, which causes friction of the joints and 
the effort of nature to supply relief from an increase of the joint-oil. 

Symptoms. — Enlargement on the front and inside of the hock, where 
there is naturally a depression, sometimes with stiffness, but seldom lame- 
ness; this is generally soft and elastic, but may 
be hard and inelastic in old and severe cases, in 
this case producing lameness. The vein pass- 
ing over the hock may be pressed by the swell- 
ing and thus distended with blood, in which 
case the disease is sometimes distinguished as 
blood spavin, and destruction of the vein has l62# thorough- 

161. Bog Spavin. . ' p IN 

been very unwisely recommended. 

Thorough-Pin is an enlargement of the back upper part of the hock, 
and results from long-continued or excessive exertion, especially on hard 
roads, and may be caused by a sprain. It generally co-exists with bog 
spavin, with similar symptoms, except that in thorough-pin the swelling 
may extend to both sides of the joint, and the inclosed fluid may be easily 
forced from one side to the other. 

Treatment. — In ordinary cases it is scarcely necessary or wise to at- 
tempt a treatment of what nature has done to obviate the ills of the friction, 
as it may cause no marked inconvenience; but should it interfere with the 
proper action of the joint by growing large, and produce lameness or in- 
flammation of the synovial membrane, foment the joint three times a day with 
warm water; then arnica-lotion (one ounce of arnica in a pint of water) 
should be rubbed into the swelling three times a day. In about a week 





654 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

apply a similar lotion of rhus in like manner. In long-standing cases 
pressure is the best treatment by far. This is best applied by a truss made 
specially for the purpose; but in the absence of one, a wet chamois-skin 
bandage may be bound firmly to the swelling, and a piece of lint put un- 
der it, the latter being wet with glycerine twice a day. Blisters are of no 
avail, but lameness has been removed by firing the affected parts. 

BONE SPAVIN. 

This is a bony deposit on the inner and lower parts of the hock-joint. 
It may be hereditary, a malformation of the joint existing at birth, though 
in this case the natural defect often does not cause lameness. The more 
common causes are galloping in heavy ground; slipping on smooth sur- 
faces; long draughts; sudden throwing of the horse on the haunches; calks 
on the outside of the heel, without corresponding ones inside. 

Sy?nptoms. — In the early stages the enlargement may not be detected, 
but the horse does not bend the hock, and shows pain if the joint be 
pressed ; hops on the toe of the affected limb when turned around or put 
in motion; snatches the toe up, as in stringhalt; drags the 
limb; after a while, if not at first, a small bony tumor may 
be felt on the inner and lower front part of the joint by 
rubbing the hand over the joint and comparing it with the 
joint of the sound leg examined in a similar way. Lame- 
ness may disappear with rest, though subsequent trotting 
will renew it; but this gradually leaves upon work. The 
inside of the hock is unnaturally heated. In later stages 
inflammation of the ligaments, depositions of cartilage or bone, and per- 
haps disease of the interior part of the joint, are added, when the lameness 
increases, and is worse when first brought from the stable, diminishing 
with motion. If the tarsal bones become stiff, the horse loses condition and 
seldom lies down. 

Treatment. — Turn the horse loose in a stall for about a month. 
Give rhus internally three times a day, and rub into the affected part a 
lotion of one part of strong tincture of rhus to eight of water. If a dep- 
osition of bone has formed, use the following: 

Iodine, i drachm. 

Iodide potassae, 2 drachms. 

Sulphuric acid. 2 drachms. 

Palm oil, 4 drachms. 
Mix. 




THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 



655 



First shave off the hair, and then smear this preparation thickly over 
the swelling with a thin, broad knife, or a flat piece of wood. While 
using this preparation, keep the head tied up for twenty-four hours. Do 
not clean the hock or remove the scurf which will appear in two or three 
days after the application is made. In from two to three weeks the same 
dressing may be made, a third usually not being required. 

CURB. 



Curb is an enlargement at the back part of the hock, three or four 
inches below the point, resulting from a sprain of the ligaments connecting 
the bone which forms the point of the joint with the larger bones below. 
A fluid is effused into the tissue, and depositions of bone are sometimes 
formed. Horses are called " cow-hocked " when the ligament is kept 
constantly stretched, thus making curb more liable to occur. It is rare in 
old horses, usually occurring between breaking and the eighth year. The 
main causes are galloping in heavy ground ; leaping ; ordinary work-horses 
predisposed to it from birth ; running over hills. 

Symptoms. — Soft, hot, tender swelling on the back and upper part of 
the shank-bone, which soon becomes hard and difficult of treatment; lame- 
ness. The head of the smaller bone of the shank is in some horses nor- 
mally large, but the enlargement is hard and bony all the time, being thus 
easily distinguished from curb, in which the swelling is more or less elastic. 
Treatment. — Raise the heel of the shoe to rest the ligaments. Give 
rhus internally three times a day, and apply rhus-lotion externally by pressure. 
To secure pressure on the hock, make a case of strong cloth to fit the joint, 
cutting a hole to fit the top of the bone forming 
the point of the hock which will sustain the 
case, lacing the front part together by tapes on 
each side; about two inches from the edge of 
the opening made for the point of the hock 
make a slit of proper length to admit the full 
width of the bandage with which the pressure 
is to be secured. This case is only to prevent i6 |' er In dm"5ing 
the bandage from slipping down from the joint. FOR CuRB - 
Take the bandage (chamois-skin is the best, as it retains moisture longer 
than flannel) and the case, slip one end of the bandage through one of the 
slits, passing it from the inside of the case outward, then from the outside 
inward through the opening at the hock-point, and finally outward through 
the second side slip. Draw the bandage through so as to bring the other 
end inside, near the first side-opening, make the end fast there, put on the 





A CUKB. 



656 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

case and fasten the tapes in front. Now wrap the long loose end of the 
bandage upon the parts requiring pressure, having under it a pad of 
chamois-skin, saturated with a half-ounce of arnica mixed with a half-pint 
of water. Keep the bandage wet with cold water. When the inflamma- 
tion has subsided, rub in a lotion of one ounce of rhus to a half-pint of water. 
The following are other methods of treatment, either of which mav be 
used, though obviously two can not be used at the same time: (i). 
Moisten the hair with a tincture of acetum cantharidum, applied with a 
brush, then rub the part dry. Do not repeat this for several days, and use 
no fomentations after it. (2). A favorite remedy is one drachm of mercu- 
rius corrosivus and one ounce of spirits of wine, applied with a soft sponge, 
but not rubbed in. It may be repeated in ten days, if necessary. (3). 
One drachm of bin-iodide of mercury with one drachm of axunge may be 
rubbed in for a few minutes every day for ten days. Firing is usually 
cruel and unnecessary, but it not only removes lameness, but also prevents 
a return. It may be used when all remedies fail to give, a permanent cure. 

WIND GALLS OR PUFFS. 

Around or near the joints are little sacs supplying the tendons, which 
are composed of membrane much like the synovial, which secretes small 
quantities of an oily fluid. If the tendons be sprained or their action be 
much increased, nature increases the secretion and thus produces a soft, 
elastic tumor known as wind gall or puff. The cause is usually a sprain of 
the tendons, or excessive or long-continued friction of the joints from quick 
work on hard roads. Low, marshy pastures seem to produce a tendency 
to an enlargement much like that resulting from over-exertion. 

Symptoms. — Soft, elastic swellings near some joint, as the fetlock, hock 
or knee, generally the first, at the start as large as a small nut, but finally be- 
coming much larger, and growing harder; absence of inflammation and 
lameness. The swellings may occur among the tendons 
and ligaments on the interior part of the leg below the knee, 
a little below the front of the joint, or on the upper back 
part of the joint. These swellings do not contain wind, as 
once was believed, but an oily fluid, and generallv cause no 
harm. Occasionally-, however, the increase of the fluid may 
cause inflammation, which extends to the lining membranes 
of the sheath of the tendons, very tender, pufFv swellings ap- 
pearing above the usual seat of wind galls; the inflammation 
thickens the membrane, and the fluid in the sacs changes from a straw-color 
and becomes suffused with blood; lymph may collect; the tumors become 




THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 657 

firm and hard to the touch, and in old horses like bone, interfering with the 
action of the tendons and causing lameness. 

Treatment. — Wind galls seldom cause lameness; hence it is usually 
not wise to treat them. If lameness ensues, however, it generally results 
from a sprain of the tendon or a joint, and will be removed by a chamois- 
skin pressure as directed under Bog Spavin. Should this fail to remove 
the lameness and swelling, foment the part a half-hour morning and even- 
ing with warm water, dry well, and then rub in a lotion of one ounce of 
rhus to one pint of water. Should the wind gall be very large, and not 
connected with the joint, it may be punctured with a small trocar on its 
upper surface, and the fluid be pressed up and out. A compress and band- 
age must then be applied to close the sac and exclude the air, and not be 
removed for two days. After that time, place over the wind gall a piece 
of lint soaked in glycerine, with oil-silk and a bandage over it. Renew this 
dressing night and morning. Keep the horse in a loose box, not taking 
him out for ten days or two weeks, and omitting all work for a month. 

ULCERATION OF THE JOINT CARTILAGE. 

Inflammation of the synovial membrane sometimes extends to the car- 
tilage covering the ends of the two main bones of the joint, diminishing 
the secretion, causing ulceration, wearing away of the cartilage, and polish- 
ing of the surface of the bones, thus giving rise to what has been erro- 
neously called porcelain deposit. 

Treatment. — Remove the hair and apply, with a thin, broad knife 
(not rubbed in), a preparation made on the following formula: 

Iodine, 2 drachms. 

Iodide of potassa, 1 drachm. 

Sulphuric acid, 2 drachms. 

Palm oil, 1^ ounce. 
Mix. 

Repeat the application in about three weeks, if the cure is not complete. 

CAPPED HOCK. 

This is usually caused by a kick, but may arise from an injury to the 
tendons at the point of the hock, as when horses injure themselves in lying 
down or getting up. 

Symptoms. — An elastic, generally movable, swelling at the hock sud- 
denly appears. It is of two kinds: (1). A mere bruise of the skin may 
42 




658 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cause an effusion of serum into the tissue. (2). The synovial sac may be 
enlarged from an injury to the tendons. In the first kind, the enlargement 
may be easily moved about and is limited to the point of the hock; in the 
second, the enlargement remains fixed and is more deeply seated, the en- 
larged sheath being felt either above or below the point of the hock, with 
more tenderness and inflammation than in the first kind. 

Treatment. — In new cases, foment the swelling three or four times 
a day with warm water, dry thoroughly, and rub in about a tablespoonful 
of a lotion made of one-half ounce of tincture of arnica in 
six ounces of water. As soon as the inflammation subsides, 
use in place Of this lotion one made of a half-ounce of rhus 
in five ounces of water. When the swelling is not deep and 
is very large, without involving the true joint, the upper 
surface may be punctured by a surgeon with a small trocar, 
the fluid be pressed up and out, and diluted calendula be in- 

11 1 • mi i i i l6 7- Capped Hock. 

jected and pressed out in two minutes, lhen apply a band- 
age as directed undtr Bog Spavin. If the pressure be omitted, the fluid 
will collect again and again. 

SPRAIN OF THE HOCK. 

The tendons and ligaments of the hock are all subject to sprains from 
leaping, or galloping in heavy ground. The ligaments connecting the 
bones of the joints are specially subject to implication in sprains, and the 
disease will readily submit to proper treatment if taken in time; but the 
trouble is often not detected until inflammation has destroyed the elasticity 
of the ligaments, the latter becoming cartilaginous or bony. The symp- 
toms are heat and swelling in the joint, some stiffness and lameness. The 
treatment is local, such as is applicable to general Sprains. 

CAPPED KNEE. 

This is caused by striking the knee against some hard body; by heavy 
falls; by thorns or other foreign bodies in the knee. 

Symptoms, — The symptoms are a soft, elastic swelling 
on the front of the knee, with an absence of pain on 
pressure, except in case of a foreign substance being the 
cause. 

Treatment. — If a thorn be the cause, remove it. In 
16S. Enlargement a ^ recent cases, with inflammation, give frequent warm- 
in capped Knee. water fomentations. Arnica-lotion, one part of the tine- 




THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 659 

ture to twelve of water, should be rubbed in twice a day. In chronic cases, 
use a liniment made on the following formula: 

Liniment of soap, 8 ounces. 

Camphor, I drachm. 

Liquor ammoniae, I ounce. 
Mix. 

Apply daily with friction until a scurf appears on the parts. 

SPRAIN OF THE KNEE TENDONS. 

When a sprain of any of the back tendons of the knee occurs, the 
fibers being lacerated, a swelling appears on the back part of the leg, which 
is tender on pressure, and at first hot and inflamed, becoming afterward 
hard, and sometimes ossified. The unstead}' gait, wavering of the knees, in- 
clination to lie down, and other symptoms will be easily recognized. Such 
sprain obviously makes the horse unfit for substantial service. 

Treatment. — Immediately after the accident which causes the 
trouble has occurred, apply a chamois-skin bandage to the swelling and 
keep it wet with cold water. Should effusion of fluid have set in, with in- 
flammation, put on a flannel bandage and bathe over it frequently with 
hot water during the day; at night placing on six or eight folds of lint 
saturated with arnica-lotion (one tablespoonful of tincture to a half-pint of 
water), covering the whole with oil-silk and a bandage. When inflamma- 
tion subsides under this treatment, foment for a half-hour night and morn- 
ing, dry the leg, and rub in a mixture of a half-ounce of rhus and a half- 
pint of water. Give rest and a loose box. At the beginning, put on a 
high-heeled shoe to relieve pressure on the tendons. Further treatment is 
indicated under general Sprains. The sinews may be contracted, render- 
ing a division of the tendons necessary by a surgeon. 

BROKEN KNEE. 

Broken knee is a term applied to an injury imposed by a fall or striking 
the knee against some hard and sharp body, resulting in a bruise, a break of 
the skin, or a division of the tendons or membranous sacs of the joint. 

Symptoms. — The skin may be simply bruised and not broken through, 
when the knee will be hot, swollen and painful. Or there may be a rubbing 
off of the skin, or it may be cut, torn and jagged, the lower tissues being 
injured, the sheath of the tendon also being exposed. Sometimes a fluid 
issues from the wound. 



660 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Should there be simply a bruise, apply warm fomen- 
tations until the inflammation subsides. If the swelling then continues, rub 
on daily a liniment made as follows: — 

Soap liniment, 4 ounces. 

Camphor, y 2 ounce. 

Liquor ammonias, 1 ounce. 
Mix. 

If the skin be lacerated and bleeding, remove all grit by forcibly 
dashing water on the wound, or forcing it on with a large syringe. Then 
if the joint is not open, or the tendon not cut through, gently dry the wound 
by dabbing it with a soft rag or sponge, and pout- on (not apply with a 
sponge) a little lotion six times a day composed of one part of the tincture 
of arnica to twelve of water. If the skin lies in a flap on the leg, the 
wound must be sewed up, but loosely enough to allow the swelling which 
will take place. In such cases only should a bandage be used for broken 
knee. Though it may be made of linen or flannel, it is better if made of 
chamois-skin, kept wet constantly with warm water after it is applied. 
Put the bandage on evenly, with light pressure, and leave it for a week, 
except as it gets loose and requires readjustment. A splint eighteen inches 
long and three wide should be fastened against the back of the joint to 
prevent the tearing out of the stitches. If the formation of pus is inevitable, 
foment the wound and put on a poultice of carrot or turnip, never of bran. 
This is best applied by drawing a woolen stocking over the knee, fastening 
it around the leg below the joint with tape, then filling in the poultice and 
fastening the stocking above. Repeating the poultice twice daily for two 
or three days will usually be sufficient, unless the granulation is excessive, 
when it should be sprinkled with finely powdered sulphate of zinc, if it 
rises above the level of the skin. In a few days the skin falls off, and, if 
the "skinning over" has not taken place, wash the part three times daily 
with a lotion composed of two drachms of sulphate of zinc, two drachms of 
acetate of lead, and one pint of water, thoroughly mixed. 

CAPPED ELBOW. 

This is caused by mechanical injuries from insufficient bedding; lying 
on rough, hard surfaces, as paving-stones ; a shoe pressing on the elbow while 
the horse is lying down. 

Symptoms. — A swelling, similar to that in capped hock, on the point 
of the elbow, which is at first elastic and movable, full of fluid, but later 
growing hard, or of a fibrous or cartilaginous character. 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 661 

Treatment. — Foment and apply arnica-lotion, following up with 
rhus-lotion night and morning. If the swelling is not thus removed, a sur- 
geon should pass a seton through it; or make an opening with a small 
trocar, remove the fluid, and then inject a lotion of calendula and water, one 
part of the tincture of calendula to four of water. Keep the horse tied up. 
In a day or two, should the fluid again collect, the surgeon may probe the 
swelling and apply a lotion of calendula to ward off fistulous results. If 
there be considerable inflammation, foment often with warm water. 

SPRAIN OF THE STIFLE-JOINT. 

Such sprain is uncommon, but its symptoms are plain, being a swelling 
at the joint, so near the surface that it is easily felt; pain on pressure; heat; 
unwillingness to move the hind leg, which is dragged along in trotting. 

Treatment. — Apply fomentations of warm water often and rub in 
arnica-lotion night and morning. After the subsidence of inflammation 
leave off the fomentations and rub in camphorated ammoniacal soap 
liniment until a mild blistering occurs, and a cure will result after a few days 
of rest. The formula for the liniment is given under general Sprains. 

SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK-JOINTS. 

Sprain of the fetlock-joints is sometimes located in the ligaments of the 
joints, but more commonly in the tendons behind and in front of the 
joint. The symptoms are swelling; lameness; heat; tenderness on pressure. 

Treatment. — Bandage the swelling and keep up warm-water fomen- 
tations, followed by cold water. After inflammation subsides put on a 
chamois-skin bandage saturated twice a day with one part of rhus to eight 
of water. For other expedients, see general Sprains. 

BREAKING-DOWN. 

Breaking down is an actual rupture of the ligaments in the back part 
of the leg, above or below the fetlock. Any sprain of the back tendons 
receives the same name. While running the horse suddenly stops, bends the 
leg and rests it either on the fetlock (in real rupture) or on the toe (in 
sprains). 

Symptoms. — In ordinary sprain, as stated above, the toe rests on the 
ground after the horse has suddenly stopped on a run, or the leg is held off 
the ground. In rupture of the ligament, the fetlock yields, and in extreme 
cases the leg rests on the heel and fetlock, the toe turned upward off the 



662 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



ground. The horse may lie down, and sometimes hops on three legs. At 
first there will be much pain, quick breath and pulse, and other signs of 
fever and excitement. 

Treatment. — Put on a high-heeled shoe for use when the foot is 
down. Put the horse in slings, and bind on firmly a chamois-skin bandage 
with a flannel bandage over it. Constantly apply warm-water fomentations 
for several days, not removing the bandages oftener than is necessary. In 
about ten days cold salt-water may be applied often to remove inflammation; 
then use other remedies as named under general Sprains. Give aconite 



mm 




169. Sling for Use in Breaking-Down. 



three times a day. Bran-mashes and grass are the best diet. The part will 
always be deformed and the horse will never be fit for any but slow and 
light work. The above treatment is designed especiallv for cases of actual 
rupture of the ligaments. That for sprains of the tendons should be the 
same as that given for Sprain of the Knee Tendons (which see). 

SPLINT. 



In this disorder the cartilaginous ligaments joining the large and 
small bones of the shank are converted into bone, and the process may 
extend to other parts if inflammation continues. It generally appears on the 
inside of the fore leg, but may affect any part of the shank-bones. Its 
causes are sudden or long-continued strain, causing inflammation of the liga- 
ments; blows; putting young horses to work for which their partial develop- 




THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. ()f)# 

ment is not suited; sometimes marks of splint are hereditary. It may 
result from inflammation of the sheath of the bone. 

Symptoms, — Before the bony deposit there will be pain on pressure of 
the part affected; perhaps lameness, diminishing with exercise; later, a 
bony tumor, usually on the inside of the leg close to the 
knee, or half-way between the knee and fetlock; in case of 
lameness, there will be increased heat and tenderness in the 
tumor. 

Treatment. — Give rhus internally night and morning 
in the early stages when there is inflammation of the carti- 
laginous tissue previous to the conversion into bone; in this 
case lameness is generally present. Iodide of potassa may 
follow rhus with good results, five to ten grains being given 
twice a day in water. In connection with the above reme- 
dies apply a lint-compress, wet in cold water and covered I/0 of Splint. IES 
with oil-silk and a bandage; or foment twice a day, and as 2 , Low'Ipiint! 1 ^ 
often rub in a lotion of one ounce of rhus in one half-pint feki^aWaii- 
of water. ed Splin>t - 

Only in the early stages, when the tumor is forming, will internal 
remedies be of any avail. When the splint is confirmed and the remedies 
already named have failed, shave the hair from the tumor and with a thin, 
broad knife, or a flat piece of wood, lay on a thick coating, without rubbing 
it in, of the following preparation: 

Iodine, 2 drachms. 

Caustic potash, 2 drachms. 

Sulphuric acid, 2 drachms. 

Palm oil, y 2 ounce. 
Mix. 

Apply as directed, keeping the horse's head tied up for twenty-four 
hours, and further treatment will be unnecessary, except that in some cases a 
repetition of this application will be needed in ten days or two weeks. 
In place of other remedies, sixty grains of corrosive sublimate may be put 
in one pint of water and rubbed in night and morning until the skin gets 
scurfy and tender. After discontinuing it for a day or two, rub the part 
with oil and thoroughly wash it with soap and water; then apply again. 
In rare cases the surgeon may be compelled to open the skin just below 
the splint, introduce a knife with a convex edge, turn the edge downward 
when the knife reaches the splint, and make two or three cuts in the sheath 
of the bone. Then further treatment is unnecessary, except the care needed 
for cuts in general. 



664 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

BRUSHING. 

Horses with defective formation of the legs and those which are badly 
fed are subject to brushing, which consists in a foot striking the opposite 
fetlock, or the part above this, usually on the hind leg. 

Treatment. — If there be swelling and soreness, apply cloths saturated 
in arnica-solution to remove the enlargement and inflammation. Then care- 
fully strap around the joint a leather or India-rubber boot (a woolen boot 
turned down over the joint will answer, though not so well). If the horse 
has been poorly fed, strengthen the constitution by nutritious food. Give 
perfect rest until the bruise is healed. A repetition of the injury may 
sometimes be prevented by putting feather-edged shoes on the hind feet, 
though they are useless on the fore feet. This throws the joints farther apart. 
In cutting of the fore feet, make the shoeing perfectly level, carefully rasp- 
ing off the part which strikes. It may, however, be necessary to use a boot 
all the time. 

SPEEDY CUT. 

Speedy cut occurs during rapid action, usually in horses with poorly- 
shaped legs, and is caused by one or both feet striking the opposite fetlock 
or the part above it. The pain is so much greater, and the shock to the 
system so much more severe, that it is a more dangerous trouble than 
brushing. It causes the horse to suddenly fall, with the rider, at high speed. 
A small bare place, partially covered with hair, will be found on the inside 
of the shank-bone; perhaps a cut, scab, or break in the skin. In bad cases 
the sheath of the bone and the bone itself may be swollen. 

Treatment. — The treatment is the same as in Brushing. Usually, 
however, a boot must be made with a pad on the inside, reaching down to 
the fetlock from the knee and held in place by buckles. 

OVER-REACH AND TREAD. 

^ A wound made on the back part of the crown of the front foot by the 
hind foot is called an over-reach. One made on the corresponding part of 
the hind foot by a horse traveling behind is called a tread. 

Treatment. — Owing to the peculiar organism of this part of the 
horse a cure is rarely effected, yet the possible serious nature of such 
wounds calls for strict attention. Any portion of the skin or horn that may 
be detached should be removed with scissors and the wound be cleansed 
and dressed with compound tincture of aloes and myrrh put on soft tow, 



THE HORSE— THE EXTREMITIES. 005 

and bound on the- wound. Leave this on two days; then it may be 
changed every day until the cure is effected. Avoid poultices and fomenta- 
tions, except in cases of neglect, after pus has formed, when fomentation 
is advisable, with calendula-lotion applied. Long neglect may lead to quittor. 

QUITTOR. 

Quittor is an ulcer in the foot, usually on the inside, with an opening 
on the crown between the hoof and hair. It is caused by neglected or 
badly-treated over- reach or tread; by a prick in shoeing, nail, or other 
sharp substance, which sets up inflammation, with matter pushing itself up 
to the crown; by pus from corns; injuries of the feet in general. It re- 
quires prompt and good treatment to prevent ulceration of the adjoining 
cartilages. 

Symptoms* — Lameness; heat; pain in a swelling found in the bulb of 
the heel or some part of the crown just above the hoof, where a little 
matter oozes out; by removing the horn some parts are found changed in 
color, with matter that is black and offensive. 

Treatment. — Let out the matter when possible and inject calendula- 
lotion, one part of the tincture to four of water, into the tumor night and 
morning; then wrap the foot in a warm turnip or meal poultice. Rasp 
the wall of the foot under the conical swelling or crown until it springs on 





171. Quittor before Pus Breaks Through 

the Crown. 172. Quittor after Pus Breaks Out. 

pressure of the finger. After inflammation is reduced, discontinue the poul- 
tice and merely dress the sore on the crown with the calendula-lotion. 
Either remove the shoe or use the bar-pattern, cutting away the lower por- 
tion of the hoof of the affected quarter so it can not rest on the bar. In 
long-standing cases, the discharge having become thin and greenish, the 
best injection is made of five grains of corrosive sublimate and an ounce of 
water, repeated daily until a cure is made. Before pus forms the injury 
may be removed by bathing the affected part in arnica-lotion, one part of 
the tincture to four of water, at first every three hours, then twice daily 
until all traces of the disorder have disappeared. 



666 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

The navicular bone is behind and below the lower bone of the pastern 
and above the coffin bone of the hoof. Diseases of this bone lead to many 
forms of obscure lameness. The bone may become contracted as a result, 
and this contraction has been erroneously considered by some the cause of 
the disease. The main causes are strain of the tendon that passes over the 
bone downward to the coffin, over-exertion, or long-continued work on 
hard roads, by which the sac between the tendon and the bone becomes in- 
flamed and its oily fluid is stopped, leading to ulceration of the bone and 
membrane. 

Symptoms. — The horse stands with legs extended, putting the weight 
on the toe, the heel being lifted; perhaps the fetlock is bent, the toe thrown 
forward and stuck into the ground; lameness; heat; tenderness of the foot; 




Section of the Foot and Pasterns. 



A, Coffin Bone. B, Navicular Bone, the seat of Navicular Disease. C, Coronary or Lower Pastern 
Bone. F, Cannon or Shank Bone. G, Horny Frog-. H, Sensitive Frog-. K, Sensitive Sole. L, Horny 
or Sensitive Sole. M, Outer Wall or Crust. N, Laminated Leaves or Horny Plates. O, Sensitive 
Lamina? or Plates, the Chief Seat of Founder. 



lameness diminishes with exercise; pressure in the hollow of the pastern 
gives pain; tendon usually a little larger than is natural. After the dis- 
ease has run some time, pressure of the thumb on the hollow of the heel 
causes pain ; the inside quarter of the foot becomes straighter, and ridges 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 



667 



form on that part of the hoof; the foot and the sole grow more concave ; 
the horn increases in quantity ; thrush may form ; tenderness at the point of 
the frog; perhaps fungoid granulations. 

Treatment. — First remove the shoe and pare the sole until it yields 
under the thumb; then put the foot in a poultice kept wet with warm 
water. In a few days leave off the poultice and keep the animal standing 
in wet yellow clay in the day, putting wet swabs and pads on the feet at 




174. Position often Assumed in Navicular Disease. 

night. Fine sand is good to cover the floor of the stable with. After in- 
flammation has subsided, and in old, confirmed attacks, blistering is good, 
but a seton passed through the frog by a surgeon is better, leaving it in four 
weeks and bathing night and morning with warm water. If granulations 
form, touch them with caustic. Give five drops of aconite every four hours 
to aid in reducing inflammation. A similar dose of rhus is desirable when 
a sprain of the tendon is suspected. When inflammation of the cartilages 
is supposed to exist, ten drops of phosphoric acid in a little water three 
times a day is advisable. Should all the foregoing fail, it may be necessary 
for the surgeon to separate the nerve to deaden the sense of feeling. 

FOUNDER.— FEVER IN THE FEET.— LAMINITIS. 



These terms are applied to inflammation of the tendons, ligaments, 
muscles, bone-extremities and tissues of the feet (see cut 173). It is caused 
by traveling on hard roads when the horse is fat or otherwise unprepared 
for quick work; standing in the water when the animal is much heated, fol- 
lowed by a chill; standing a considerable time tied up; fever; inflammation 
of the womb; inflammation of the lungs, or other constitutional trouble; ex- 
cessive food. 



668 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



Symptoms. — Shivering, followed by sweats; quick, full pulse; heav- 
ing flanks; short, quick breathing; lifting the feet in alternation, or fre- 
quently lying down and rising; animal fixed to one place, with back arched 
and hind legs under the body; if one attempts to lift the well foot, the 
animal crouches low or falls, and when down lies at full length; groans; 
looks toward the affected feet; crown hot and pained by slight blows. 

Treatment. — Remove the shoes; cover the floor of the box with 
sawdust, put straw on it, and encourage the horse to lie down; thin the 
sole and apply a poultice made of turnip, or, still better, yellow clay, first 
taking out all small stones or grit, keeping the clay wet by pouring cold 
water upon it. In a few days the shoes may be tacked on (as may be done 
from the beginning in mild cases), and wet felt pads and swabs be put on. 
If the horse be allowed to stand, these poultices and cloths ma}'- be omitted, 
and the feet be put in some vessels containing warm water, the temperature 
being raised gradually as high as the hand can well bear. Arnica tincture, 
in five times its quantity of water, may be used as a lotion to bathe the 
ankles and legs every three hours; or the feet may be put into vessels con- 
taining the lotion; or cloths maybe saturated in it and wrapped around 
the pastern of the affected legs, tow similarly soaked being put into the soles. 

As an internal remedy, give five to ten 
drops of aconite every hour or two in 
a little water for very hot feet, especi- 
ally at the crown; great lameness; 
horse unwilling to move, lies down, 
groans, standing with the hind feet 
drawn under the body; fever; quick, 
full pulse; frequent breathing; hot 
mouth. Give arnica, as directed for 
aconite, for founder from wounding 
the feet in fast or long drives on hard 
roads, and for stiff legs and inflamed 
feet. Give arsenicum for founder from 
excessive food; feet very tender and 
painful; and when aconite has reduced the primary violent symptoms. 
Phosphoric acid is very important for lameness, hot and tender feet, and 
softening of the horn. Nux vomica is good for loss of appetite; abdomen 
drawn up; paralysis of muscles. When fever or inflammation arises in the 
feet without any assignable cause, wash them thoroughly with tepid water 
to remove dirt and other foreign matters, and apply tincture of arnica in the 
earliest stages, before ulceration ensues, or when some other affection is 
threatened. Give mild, easily digested food and cooling drinks. 




175. Frequent Position in Acute 
Laminitis. 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 669 

CHRONIC FOUNDER OR LAMINITIS. 

The acute form of founder, or laminitis, which has been described above, 
may lead to a chronic type, and this is to be dreaded. 

Symptoms. — Feeling of lameness, though not actual lameness, in both 
fore legs, which are unnaturally warm; tapping the front legs causes pain; 
the animal lifts his feet but little in walking, and puts his heels upon the 
ground; the sole becomes flat or convex; the crust breaks easily; more 
lameness with a weight on the back than when the animal is led on a trot. 

Treatment. — If no inflammation be perceptible, internal remedies 
are useless; but if it be noticed before the tissues lose elasticity, or the foot 
becomes changed in appearance, give rhus three times a day. Keep felt 
pads on the feet; apply to the crowns of the feet cloths soaked in rhus-lo- 
tion. Feed mashes and green food. Favorable results will be experienced 
by removing the shoes and turning the animal into a large stall, the floor 
being well covered with sawdust or fine tan-bark. If the foot becomes 
again elastic, work on soft ground may be done, but a very short walk on 
hard ground will produce inflammation. A thin layer of rubber or leather 
between the shoe and hoof will do much to prevent a return. 

PUMICED FOOT. 

This is a flatness or convexity of the sole, with a soft, spongy horn- 
growth, the middle of the front part of the hoof being depressed. It is a 
result of founder. 

Treatment. — It is incurable. Relief may be given by putting on 
a broad-webbed shoe, with gutta-percha or leather under it. Where the 
crust is much lower than the sole, a thick shoe with a narrow web is better, 
a piece of gutta-percha the breadth of the heel of the shoe being put next 
to the crust to raise the sole from the ground. Require only slow work, 
and that with very much rest. Dress the sole daily with. hot tar. 

SEEDY TOE. 

Seedy toe arises often without an assignable cause, though it may fol- 
low founder, or result from dirt or gravel working in at the edge of the 
sole, or from the clip of a shoe pressing on a hoof that is deficient in cohe- 
sive power, from blows, as from too hard hammering, and other means of 
violence. 

Symptoms. — The horn at the toe crumbles off like sawdust or rotten 
wood; an opening leads up between the outer and inner crusts of the wall 




670 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

of the hoof, sometimes going as high as the crown; tapping on the wall 
with a hammer determines the extent of the separation. Difficulty may be 
found in getting a piece of horn sufficient to hold a nail, and 
side clips may be necessary. 

Treatment. — Cut away the crust so far as it is 
separated from the underlying layers of horn, and wrap the 
foot in tow and tar, bound on with tapes; a mild blister at 
the crown will hasten the growth of the wall. Another 
Removal" of^a successful plan is to keep the horse standing in clay after 

SFFT1Y Tnp 

covering the foot with adhesive dressing, not blistering at all. 

THRUSH IN THE FEET. 

This is an offensive discharge from the frog, resulting from an inflam- 
mation of its sensitive parts. The discharge may be scanty or free, and if 
the disease be neglected, it may result in injury to the soles, frog and heel, 
causing canker (see under Canker). It is caused by contraction of the 
hoof; keeping the foot wet with urine ; frequent use of cow-dung for stop- 
ping up the frog; dirt or moisture in the frog; bruises. 

Treatment. — Remove all portions of the bone that are detached or 
run under; in case of much lameness or inflammation, apply warm poul- 
tices to the feet for two or three days, afterward putting into the cleft of 
the frog tow steeped in a lotion of one part of tincture of calendula to 
three of water. If the heels be contracted and high on the front feet, tips 
are the best expedient for producing a healthy condition. It may be neces- 
sary to get leather soles for horses that are in the habit of standing in their 
dung. If there be no lamenesss or contraction of the hoof, an application 
of calomel, in the powder, to the affected parts, will usually effect a cure. 
If, however, it be considered dangerous to stop quickly the discharge, do 
not use calomel, but. put eight ounces of tar or treacle and one ounce of 
pulverized sulphate of copper in a ladle and let them simmer until a red- 
dish-brown color appears, and apply a small amount every second day on 
tow to the cleft of the frog. A lotion of one part of carbolic acid to 
twenty of water is deemed the best of all remedies by good authorities, the 
inflamed part being bathed with it. Creosote, ten drops internally four 
times a day, is useful for healing the part and correcting the bad state of 
the constitution. Given internally, with an external use of carbolic-lotion, 
it is excellent. Phosphoric acid, given as directed for creosote, is desirable 
when inflammation of the deep tissues of the foot is threatened. Give 
light and nutritious food, not stimulating, with rest and a perfectly clean 
stable. 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES, 671 

CANKER IN THE FEET. 

Canker in the feet often results from neglected thrush, the inflamma- 
tion extending from the horny frog to the horny sole, when a fungus- 
secretion forms. The coffin bone may be affected. Its causes are the same 
as in thrush — long-continued moisture, especially with decomposition and 
heat. In some cases it may be constitutional, or it may follow grease. 

Symptoms. — Where horn is removed from the sole, fungous growths 
appear, covered with a whitish, offensive matter. In other parts the horn 
is discolored, with a dark-colored fluid underneath. When the disease has 
run some time, the whole frog and sole may be ulcerated. 

Treatment. — Freely expose the diseased parts by removing all dead 
or detached pieces of horn. Put on a shoe with a plate to cover the frog, 
attaching this plate to the toe by a hinge, and to the heel by a bar or two 
screws; this shoe furnishes pressure to the frog, which is all-important, 
and makes dressing possible without removing the shoe. A substitute is 
gutta-purcha heated in boiling water and slipped under the shoe. This can 
be taken out and put in without removal of the shoe. In most cases the 
morbid growth will be stopped and healthy horn grow by giving Fowler's 
Solution of arsenic three times a day internally, with an external use of 
carbolic acid applied with pressure. The most certain remedy is a caustic 
(nitric acid, sulphate of copper, carbolic acid or tar) applied under the 
shoes made as above described, putting tow under the iron or gutta-percha 
sole to secure pressure. The caustic-dressing may be repeated every two 
or three days until the horn becomes healthy. When only a thin, watery 
discharge is seen, chloride of zinc, two grains to one ounce of water, or 
calomel in powder, applied daily, will usually suffice. 

CORNS. 

A corn is a very sensitive, fungus-like growth of horny matter and 
granulations of a reddish color between the horny sole and sensitive part 
of the foot, generally at the inside of the sole of the fore feet. In some 
cases a pus-like matter forms under the sole, or breaks out at the crown as 
in quittor. It is caused bv contraction of the hoof or pressure from bad 
shoeing. 

Symptoms. — The angle between the bars and crust is of a dark-red 
color, soft, fungus-like, painful, and perhaps attended with lameness. 

Treatment. — For much inflammation and formation of pus, remove 
the bars and other means of pressure, and apply at least twice a day arnica- 
lotion, one part of the tincture to four of water. In most cases it is suffi- 



672 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



cient to lower the heel so as to remove the pressure of the shoe, then to cut 
away the corn as far as possible and dress it with muriate of antimony, put- 
ting on a bar-shoe. If the horse has strong feet, it may suffice to cut 
away the bars, put on tips without cutting down the heels, and dress with 
muriate of ammonia. For riding-horses do not use bar-shoes, but thicken 
the shoe a little, or spring it at the heel. A three-quarter shoe has been 
used in such cases with great benefit and comfort to the horse. 

SANDCRACK. 

Sandcrack is a fissure or partition in the hoof, usually at the inside 
quarter of a fore foot, or in front of a hind one. Its chief causes are dryness 
and brittleness of the hoof from an injury to the crown-surface, or from 
a lack, of the gluey matter which binds the fibers, the latter cause being 
common in warm, sandy countries. 

'Treatment. — Remove all pressure of the shoe beneath the crack, a 
bar-shoe being the best in most cases. Arnica-lotion will relieve pain and 
lameness, and an application of powdered blood-root will check the appear- 
ance of proud flesh. Should the sensitive layers of the hoof be squeezed 
by the crack, resulting in lameness, thin down the edges of the horn at the 
crack and foment the foot frequently until all inflammation subsides. The 




177. Sandcrack Dressed and 
Shod. 





178. Curved or Angular 
Fissures for Cure of 
Sandcrack. 



179. A Foot with Toe-Sandcrack, 
Bandaged when Work is Re- 
quired. 



crack should be closed as soon as possible, and prevented from extending up 
to the crown. To this end, clean out the crack, rasp its edges thin, take a 
sharp, red-hot firing-iron, and if the sensitive layers be not exposed, run it 
slightly down into the crack until it causes a gluey discharge, which will 
hold the sides together. Then make short horizontal fissures nearly 
through the horn, one above and one below the crack, and cover them and 
the whole wall of the hoof with shoemaker's wax, bound on with broad 
tape, to keep the edges of the crack together, to exclude moisture and dirt, 
and to protect the new horn as it grows from the top downward. The 
treatment may necessarily be long, but if carefully observed will effect a 



THE HORSE — THE EXTREMITIES. 673 

cure. Another method is to draw the crack together and put over it a cap 
made of thin steel, secured by small screws introduced into the hard horn 
of the hoof. This and the use of a bar-shoe will be effectual. 

FALSE QUARTER. 

This consists in a separation of the horny fibers of the foot, similar to 
that in sandcrack, which produces lameness and weakness in the affected 
heel. Its causes are injury to the crown in quittor; treading of the horse 
on his inside quarter; treading on the outside by another horse; other ex- 
ternal causes. 

Symptoms. — Deficiency of horn in the side of the hoof, or a fissure, 
generally with a horny bottom ; in some cases, exposure of the sensitive 
layers, which become inflamed, attended with oozing of matter or blood, 
and lameness. 

Treatment. — In the absence of inflammation, rasp the quarter until 
it springs under the thumb; put on a bar-shoe that does not press on the 
affected quarter. Take the horse from 
work and apply a blister to the crown; 
or fill up the fissure with an adhesive 
dressing, as tar, pitch, or heated shoe- 
maker's wax, putting broad tape over 
the whole. When the fissure is open at '^-^fp^S 
the bottom and blood or matter oozes out, QuARTER - 
rasp the quarter thin, put on a bar-shoe, and bathe the foot with hot water 
and a lotion of calendula during the day, a tablespoonful of the tincture of 
calendula to a tumblerful of water; at night, apply dirt wet in the same 
lotion, and upon it a linseed or turnip poultice. If work be required when 
the crack is open, fasten on lint and calendula-ointment with tapes. 

SORE SHINS. 

By this term is meant a disease which is primarily an inflammation of 
the covering of the front part of the bones from the knee to the fetlock. 
It occurs most often in young horses, and results from concussion incident 
to fast work. 

Symptoms. — Inflammation of the sheath of the bones below the knee, 
followed by bony matter in small knobs, sometimes in layers, on the knee. 

Treatment. — Rhus-lotion, one ounce of the tincture to fifteen ounces 
of water, should be applied several times daily, and ten drops be given in- 
ternally every four or five hours. This will arrest if not cure the trouble. 
43 





67-A COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

RINGBONE AND SIDEBONE. 

Ringbone is a bony enlargement on the pastern-bone just above the 
crown, finally surrounding the bone. Sidebone is a like enlargement at 
the back part of the crown of the foot, either inside or outside; the name 
is also applied to ossification of the elastic wings of the bone of the foot, 
which causes a change in the structure, reducing or destroying the elas- 
ticity, and producing lameness. Sometimes both disorders exist at 
once in the same leg, especially in heavy draught-horses, destroying all 
action save in the fetlock. The hind legs are less often affected than the 
fore ones, though all four may be attacked at the same time. The chief 
causes are a false step ; a dislocation ; a blow ; great strain on the ligaments 
of the joints; perhaps hereditary weakness of the fibers and ligaments. 

Sy?7tfitonzs. — In ringbone, a hard, unyielding enlargement of bone 
above the crown of the foot; in sidebone, a similar growth a little lower; 
pain from motion; affected parts in first stages hot, tender, perhaps swollen; 
occasionally great throbbing of the arteries. 

Treatment. — In the first stages, for pain on ' motion, hot, tender, 
swollen parts, or for throbbing arteries, give aconite internally, and apply 
it externally by saturating a linen rag in dilute tincture — one part to six of 
water — binding it on and keeping it moist until inflammation wholly disap- 
pears. A lotion of rhus, one ounce of tincture in fifteen ounces of water 
applied several times a day externally, a teaspoonful of the same dilution 
being given internally every four hours, is beneficial. In the early stages 
this will cure ringbone. A lotion of corrosive sublimate, sixty grains 
dissolved in one pint of hot water, is highly recommended. Rub it in until 
the skin gets thin and scurfy, that is, for a few days ; then discontinue a 
day or two and rub the parts with oil and wash well with soap and water. 
After this rub it on again. Put on a bar-shoe, the bar resting on the balls 
of the frog, and pare the hoof so as not to rest on the shoe. Continue the 
use of this shoe w«hen work is resumed. Considerable time is required. 

HOOF-BOUND.— CONTRACTION OF THE HOOF. 

These terms are applied to a contraction of the foot, which may be 
natural, and which may be aggravated if not independently caused by 
defects of shoeing; leaving the shoes on too long; too much paring; neglect 
in providing moisture by pads for the soles; excessive litter lying all the 
time in the stall; slow inflammation of the fleshv parts and bone-coating 
near the horny surface ; irregular and insufficient exercise, with rich or 
excessive feeding. 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 



675 



Symptoms. — If it comes on suddenly, lameness occurs at once; if 
gradually, lameness comes on slowly; shuffling of the feet, or very slight 
lifting of them; repeated stumbling; narrow heels (especially the inner 
one) of the fore feet; the affected foot while the horse stands is placed 
forward; both feet being affected, this position is taken by them alternately; 
occasionally the foot is pinched up so as to offer little surface to the ground; 
sometimes marked hollowness of the foot, obscurity of the sole, and the 
clefts of the frog nearly invisible; retraction and indentation externally 
between the crown and crust, generally midway between them. 

Treatment. — Regular exercise, plenty of moisture properly applied 
with pads to the foot, careful fastening of the shoes, with frequent changes 
of the same, will prevent further development, and correct the trouble. 

OPEN JOINTS. 

The pastern, hock, knee, and stifle joints are liable to be opened by 
blows, falls, sharp-pointed instruments and other mechanical agencies. 




1S2. Sling for Open Joints. 

Symptoms. — Joint-oil, like the white of an egg, is discharged; in a 
day or so swelling and fever; pain; perhaps lock-jaw, or permanent 
stiffness of the joint. 

Treatment. — Keep the horse quiet so the joint is not in action. If 
the opening be large, or when it is in a large joint, as the stifle, put the 
horse in slings. Ten drops of aconite every three hours should be given 
if there be much pain and fever. The greatest difficulty, aside from 



676 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

keeping the horse quiet, is to close the opening and stop the discharge. 
Various expedients are resorted to. In slight cases the white of an egg, 
beaten well and applied to the opening, may stop the oil. When the 
opening is large, one part of calendula tincture to three of water is better, 
and may suffice. Perhaps the best, as well as the simplest, method is to 
apply to the opening with the handle of a spoon fresh finely-powdered, 
slaked lime, putting it on every time the oil appears, both day and night, 
never removing one coat, but putting every new application upon the old. 
In some cases the only effective means is the sewing of the wound, leaving 
a chance for it to swell without tearing out the stitches. 

In open knee-joint, cleanse the wound thoroughly, cut off with scissors 
the cut parts which will eventually slough off, and stitch up the wound, 
after which it may be well to apply the white of egg, spread on a cloth 
and bound with broad tape. Keep the horse's head tied up so he can not 
lie down. In about a week remove the bandage and cleanse the wound, 
not removing the coagulum in the opening, and keepi?ig water out of 
it. After the discharge stops apply one j^art of calendula to eight parts 
of water four times a day or oftener. The knee may be kept at rest by a 
gutta-percha splint, twelve inches long and four wide, first softened in 
hot water, then fitted snugly to the irregularities of the back part of the 
leg, and secured by bandages around the leg above and below the knee. 
A small opening may be made in the front to admit applications for the 
wound. Though for all large openings the slaked lime is the best applica- 
tion, powdered sulphate of zinc, corrosive sublimate, collodion, and cotton- 
wool have been used with marked effects. A strong decoction of butternut 
bark is very effectual. The diet should consist of green food and bran- 
mashes. 

PRICK IN THE FOOT. 

Prick in the foot arises from the smith driving a nail so as to injure 
the sensitive parts of the foot; from the animal picking up a sharp stone, 
thorn, piece of glass, nail, or other sharp body, which in some cases enters 
the toe, wounds a joint, and lets out joint-oil. 

Symptoms. — If the cause is a nail in shoeing, the horse may flinch at 
the time, or may go lame the next day, being pained if the hoof be tapped 
with a hammer; lameness; hot and tenderfoot; sometimes a black, pus- 
like discharge issues from the wound when opened ; the sole probably 
"under-run." 

Treatment. — Make a free opening for the matter to escape; bathe 
the foot for a half-hour in warm water; pour in a solution of calendula, one 



THE HORSE THE EXTREMITIES. 



(577 



part to six of water, and put on a poultice of turnip or linseed-meal, con- 
tinuing it as long as matter forms. When the pus stops, tack on the shoe 
and keep on the foot a felt pad wet with water, applying the calendula- 
lotion twice a day. If work be required before horn has covered the wound, 
use a leather sole and tar. Clean out the hole by cutting away the horn, 
put in tar, and burn with a hot iron. This will both keep out the dirt and 
cure wounds that result from pricks of nails, thorns, and the like. 




CHAPTER X. 
GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 

SIMPLE FEVER.* 

flMPLE fever has various causes : Sudden changes from heat to cold} 
especially when the s}^stem is reduced by too much exercise; bad 
) food and air; great changes in the weather; shedding the coat, 
'*ffi> u which is a very common cause; indigestion, constipation, and vari- 
ous other constitutional derangements. 

Symptoms. — A very common symptom is a staring coat, with cold 
legs, perhaps with a shivering fit and trembling of the muscles on the 
shoulder-quarters and flanks; the animal yawns, hangs his head, and seems 
unwilling to move; the pulse weak, variable, and not much increased in 
frequency, and the appetite lost. In the second stage, the coat is smooth 
and the shivering fit is succeeded by a higher temperature throughout the 
body, sometimes increasing to sweating; but generally the skin is hot and 
dry, as well as the mouth and all of the internal organs, especially the mem- 
brane lining the alimentary canal, causing costiveness; urine scanty, high- 
colored, and difficult of passage; pulse and breathing hurried; the animal is 
restless, frequently lying down for a short time, shifting his legs often, 
dropping his ears, and being generally listless and indifferent, though he 
will plunge his nose into cold water and hold in his mouth water to cool 
his tongue, which may seem to be red at the edges and point, the center 
being white and perhaps creased. Should the pulse continue small and 
quick, and the breath and dung offensive, typhoid fever has set in, and to 
the article on that the reader is referred. If the symptoms remain strong 
and not relieved for some length of time, any organ inherently susceptible 
to weakness will suffer functional and organic derangement, and the disor- 
der is called " symptomatic fever." This is usually due to excess of riding. 
driving, heat or feeding, though it is also caused by injuries about the joints 
and feet, and frequently attends rheumatic troubles. Free feeding in a warm 



* The reader should note the "Remarks upon Fevers " on page 225. 

678 




1S3. EXTERNAL MARKS OF DISEASE. 



Caries of the lower jaw. 10. 

Fistula of the parotid duct. 11. 

Bony excrescence or Exosto- 12. 

sis of the lower jaw. 13. 

Swelling - by pressure of the 14. 

bridle. 15. 

Poil-evil. 36. 

Inflamed gland. 17. 

Inflamed jugular vein. iS. 

Fungus tumor, produced by 19. 

pressure of the collar. 20. 

Fistula in the withers. 



Saddle -grail. 

Tumor of the elbow. 
Induration of the knee. 
Clap of the back sinews. 
Mallenders. 
Splint. 
Ring-bone. 

A Tread upon the coronet. 
Quittor. 
Sandcrack. 

Contracted or Ring foot of a 
foundered horse. 



21. 


Capped hock. 


22. 


Mallenders. 


23. 


Spavin. 


2 4- 


Curb. 


25- 


Swelled sinews. 


26. 


Thick leg. 


27. 


Grease. 


28. 


A crack in front of the foot 




called cow-crack. 


29. 


Quarter -crack. 


3 n - 


Ventral hernia. 


31. 


Rat-Tail. 



679 



680 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

stable immediately after the horse has come off of pasture may cause dis- 
orders of the digestive organs which will terminate in this fever, and inflam- 
mation from local injuries, if not immediately reduced, may affect the whole 
animal, giving rise to a form of fever which is alarming and should be 
carefullv treated, while the simple form need cause no uneasiness unless the 
affection take a local seating. 

Treatment. — When the coat stares, or the animal shivers, yawns, 
hangs his head, and is unwilling to move, and the pulse is small, if these 
symptoms are not the result of over-fatigue, aconite should be given every 
twenty minutes, until the shivering fit is succeeded by the hot stage, when, 
if the pulse is full and quick, and the body hot or sweating, it may be con- 
tinued every fourth hour. Symptoms for aconite are also restlessness, 
short, painful, anxious breathing, much trembling, burning, drv mouth, 
red eyes and nose, great thirst, dry, hot skin. Belladonna is often useful 
when aconite does not wholly relieve the symptoms for which it was de- 
signed. After the shivering fit, if the pulse should remain weak and not 
much increased, the dung hard, and the urine yellow, or white and turbid, 
nux vomica should be given every four hours. Ammonium causticum is 
needed when, in addition to the symptoms calling for aconite, we also find 
extreme exhaustion; listlessness; short and difficult breathing; restlessness 
even when lying down; very cold ears, nose and legs; sweats; heaving 
flanks, at which the animal occasionally looks in a despondent manner; 
pulse ninety to one hundred, yet small, feeble, and quite indistinct; no 
passage of dung. Give bryonia if there be great weakness and unwilling- 
ness to move; hard and quick pulse; short and painful breathing, attended 
with catching at the sides and a grunt; pain on pressure of the ribs; fre- 
quent shaking and shivering; great thirst; sweats at night; scanty urine; 
constipation. Arsenicum may especiallv be used when the animal is re- 
covering. In the way of general care, instead of corn frequently give warm 
bran-mashes in small quantities. Sustain the strength, when declining, 
with a drench of a quart of gruel. If diarrhoea sets in, treat it with cold 
water and flour as a drink. When drinking-water is given, make it tepid. 
Clover and timothy are desirable when there is no purging. Arrowroot in 
a little wine is gfood for the weakness in the later stages of fever. Use 
additional clothing and wrap the legs in flannel if thev are cold. Keep 
the stall cool. If it be very cool weather, the temperature should be about 
55 F. Provide plenty of clean bedding. After the fever the animal may 
have a short walk, and gradually take his accustomed food and work. For 
constipation an occasional injection of warm water will be advantageous. 
Remember that a feverish condition often attends a specific disorder whose 
treatment is requisite to the cure of the fever. 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 681 

TYPHOID FEVER. 

This form of fever is quite common among horses. It is indicated by 
offensive breath and evacuations, quick, small pulse, black tongue, arid loss 
of strength from the first. Among its causes are atmospheric influences, 
as improper ventilation, with lack of regard to general hygiene. In cold 
weather it is usually traced to the closing of all inlets for fresh air, by which 
the blood is deprived of the requisite oxygen. Thus the organs which 
supply and purify the blood and conduct the circulation are deranged and 
their fluid has undergone those damaging changes which are familiarly 
known as " poisoning of the blood." It seldom continues a great time 
without being complicated with other disorders connected with, some part 
that is specially involved, as the throat or stomach. It may also arise from 
contagion in unhealthy stables, or even in apartments that are wholesome 
and well ventilated. 

Symptoms. — A shivering fit, followed by a coldness of the skin and ex- 
tremities; small and quick pulse; scanty and high-colored urine; the bowels, 
at first constipated and the discharges covered with slime, become relaxed, 
the discharges being offensive; the nasal membrane is of a dark-red color or 
leaden, and sometimes a red serum may be seen trickling from it; the tongue 
is red at the edges, but the middle is a dirty-white, with a brownish streak 
down the center; offensive breath. Should the disease prove fatal, cold 
clammy sweats will cover the body, violent diarrhoea or dysentery ensue, 
and then death will soon take place. 

Treatment. — Ammonium causticum may be given every third hour 
if extreme debility be present and the surface of the body be cold; it is also 
an excellent remedy when the fever is of a putrid type and the breath is 
very offensive; in some cases it is best to alternate it with mercurius corrosi- 
vus. Nux vomica is needed for sudden decline of strength, abdominal pains, 
quick and feeble pulse, fluttering of the heart, cold extremities, and spasm 
of the muscles of the pharynx and gullet; it is especially useful when the 
body is warm, the pulse quick and feeble, the urine scanty and high-colored, 
and the bowels constipated, a dose every two hours being suitable. If 
diarrhoea sets in, with swelling in the sheath and legs, arsenicum should be 
given; the same is particularly useful for such a condition in the later stages 
when there is great prostration, and when abscesses of a malignant charac- 
ter form about the head and other parts of the body. When dysentery comes 
on, with bloody discharges from the bowels, mercurius corrosivus should be 
used instead of arsenicum, every two hours until the blood disappears from 
the discharges, the arsenicum being then resumed. The best diet consists 
of arrowroot and gruel, in drenches of a quart at a time if the horse will 



682 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

not voluntarily take them. Soft bran-mashes, boiled oats or barley, oil- 
cake, and the like, may be given in small quantities. Insure pure air and 
water, perfect cleanliness and warm clothing, until health is restored. 

SCARLET FEVER. 

Scarlet fever is marked by scarlet spots on the mucous membrane of 
the nose and lips, varying in size from a pin-head to a pea. In this dis- 
order patches of hair stand up on different parts of the body. It is both 
simple and malignant. 

Sy?nfitoms. — The symptoms of the simple form, which usually sets in 
from the third to the sixth day of epidemic catarrh, are elevated patches of 
hair on the neck and legs, in some cases confined to the hind legs, which 
exist without any elevations on the skin below; swollen limbs; pulse some- 
times considerably increased, sometimes but little; scarlet spots on the mucous 
membrane of the nose, occasionally in only one nostril; any soreness of 
the throat previously existing in catarrh may or may not be greatly in- 
creased. At this stage the horse may be cured by judicious treatment in 
a dry, comfortable stall; but if left in unfavorable circumstances, a malig- 
nant form of this fever or other disease will probablv set in, endangering 
the animal's life. The malignant form may appear with violence at once, 
or may succeed the simple tyjDe. The horse for some days has apparently 
been affected with influenza or catarrh, with severe sore throat, cough, 
poor or no appetite, general weakness, and watery discharges from the 
nostrils; then the condition suddenly changes, the limbs become swollen 
throughout, or in lumps which are many and large, hard, painful and hot; 
and portions not swollen have elevated patches of hair; the nostrils dis- 
charge a mixture of blood, serum and watery or foul matter; the throat 
becomes intensely sore; the spots on the membrane of the nose become 
large, and of a deep-scarlet color; the cough grows worse and suffocating; 
the pulse is weak and feeble, often running up to 90 or 100 per minute; 
the swollen limbs are very sensitive, and the animal, if not disturbed, will 
stand perfectly still for hours. As the disease grows worse, large blisters 
will appear on the limbs, mainly around the joints, which burst and give out 
a bright, transparent fluid that is very irritating to the surrounding surface. 
Sometimes the extremities, the ears for example, will appear white, the 
skin of the part shrinks and is dry and hard, the whitened parts breaking 
off in a day or two, and leaving a raw surface which gives off a watery 
discharge. The appetite is gone, constipation ensues, and the urine is 
scanty and of a brown or yellow color. Within a day from the beginning 
the membrane of the nose has large spo's of a purple color which present 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 683 

a raw and watery surface — like changes taking place in the blisters around 
the joints. 

Under favorable circumstances the simple type will abate about the 
fourth or fifth day, but the malignant form generally runs seven or eight 
days before a change takes place. In extreme cases the purple spots may 
be seen under the skin and in the mucous membranes, and this condition be 
followed by an emaciated' and loathsome appearance of the animal. When 
the scarlet blotches or elevated patches of hair appear early, and the pulse 
has a firmness and regularity in its beats, the result will probably be favor- 
able; but slight hopes of recovery can be entertained if there be much 
weakness, a feeble and irregular pulse, a change of the scarlet blotches to 
purple, a swelling of the head, and a typhoid type in the fever. 

Treatment. — When the throat is the chief part affected, when the 
swelling of the limbs comes on suddenly and is hot and painful, and when 
the blotches on the nasal membrane are of a bright-scarlet color, bella- 
donna should be given. Lf the throat is relieved by belladonna, and the 
legs are still swollen, hot and tender, rhus will be found useful. Should 
the soreness of the throat not be relieved by belladonna, or should spread- 
ing sores of an unhealthy character appear on the skin, administer mer- 
curius. When marked weakness and emaciation ensue, and the pulse is 
quick and yet hardly perceptible, the legs, sheath and breast becoming 
dropsical, the appetite lost, the animal showing a great indisposition to 
move, arsenicum will prove efficacious. Should the soreness of the throat 
persist in spite of the remedies named, apis and arsenicum in alternation 
will probably afford the desired relief. In the malignant type, when there 
is a marked tendency to a breaking down of the organic structure, and a 
bleeding of the mucous membrane, with a bloody and purulent discharge 
from the nose and swelling of the lips, arnica and arsenicum should be 
given in alternation, the doses being four hours apart. 

SMALL-POX. 

This is an eruptive disease which attacks the lips and face of the horse, 
but mainly the heels, in the latter case being distinguished with difficulty 
from grease. It is of an epidemic nature, and any constitutional derange- 
ment may promote it during its prevalence. 

Symptoms. — Irritative fever, growing worse as the disease advances; 
irregular red spots, singly or in clusters, more or less elevated, on the red- 
dened parts of the skin, chiefly on the inner side of the fore legs, on the 
belly and between the thighs, becoming day by day more numerous and 
more elevated, and forming minute tumors which grow pale and discolored 



684 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



about the fifth day, with lymph on the surface which thickens and is first 
white, then yellowish, when the top becomes flat or depressed. In from a 
week to ten days the tumors begin to dry, but the process will be retarded 
by the presence of sores if the skin has been severely rubbed. During the 
whole time previous to the drying process, new tumors will be forming, 
but these gradually disappear as the drying sets in, leaving brown spots 
which finally pass away. A few bare spots remain at last (occasioned by 
severe rubbing), upon which the hair does not grow. If great offensive- 
ness of breath, sweat and dung be noticed afterward, sudden indications of 
inflammation of the lungs may be suspected, such as hissing and rattling 
breathing; copious, yellowish, thick matter in the nostrils; violent cough; 
discharge of thick, yellow, sticky phlegm from the mouth, and the like. 

Treatment. — Though this may not require special treatment, it is 
advisable to give aconite every three hours at the outset if there be much 
fever. Antimonium tartaricum is beneficial for all stages, including the lung- 
difficulties so often attendant — four drops once in three hours. Give ar- 
senicum, six drops every three hours, for prostration, purging, tendency to 
sloughing, and inclination of the system to sink to a low state. 

MUMPS. 



This disorder is occasionally found among horses, and is an inflamma- 
tion of the large salivary glands behind the margin of the lower jaw, and 
behind the ears. The large glands within the lower part of these salivary 

glands are often affected too, when strangles 
occur. They are caused by exposure to 
wet and cold, or result from some disease of 
the air-passages. 

Symptoms, — Fever, thirst, sore throat, 
cough, loss of appetite, difficult breathing, 
pain in swallowing, and at times flow of 
saliva. The glands swell, are hard and 
painful, and impede breathing. 

Treatment. — Mercurius is the main 
remedy, and is usually sufficient; put the 
1S4. Seat of Mumps. powder upon the tongue dry, after having 

a, Large Salivary Gland; b, the Duct of . .. _ . , 

the same; c, d, e, f,g, Muscles of Mastica- Sponged ailV Undue Saliva Il'Om the ITlOUtn. 

Belladonna should be given alternately with 
mercurius if local inflammation is severe, or the brain is affected. If there be 
much fever, use aconite. Foment the glands with hot water three times a 
day, and apply hot bran poultices, always wiping the part dry after fomen- 




THE HORSE— GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 685 

tation or poulticing. If suffocation is threatened, ice should be used freely 
externally, and small pieces be put into the mouth. In extreme cases of 
suffocation it may be necessary for a surgeon to open the windpipe. 

SORE THROAT. 

By this is meant an inflammation of the back part of the mouth, 
usually coming on from a like affection of the larynx. It is of common 
occurrence in horses which are put upon work with unusually good food, 
and* in those which are taken from outdoor life and put into warm and 
poorly-ventilated stables, this change reducing the system and so making 
the animal liable to cold when exposed in severe weather. 

Symptoms. — A cold comes on with fever, thirst and loss of appetite, 
followed by quick bi'eathing; external swelling of the throat; dry, hard 
cough; salivary glands swollen, hot and tender; difficulty in swallowing, 
drinking-water perhaps escaping from the nostrils during attempts to swal- 
low it; the mouth afterward gives out a frothy fluid; the cough becomes 
loose and discharges come from the nose. 

Treatment. — Good general care is often all that is needed; but if it 
be a severe case, active measures should be taken, because there is a danger 
that the inflammation will extend to the bronchi and so produce bronchitis. 
Aconite given in ten-drop doses at ji?'st will often effect an immediate 
cure. The advanced stages, marked by more settled inflammation, swollen 
and tender glands, stringy saliva, discharges at the nose, and difficult and 
painful swallowing, require belladonna, ten drops every four or six hours 
being suitable. Mercurius may be given in doses of ten grains of the 
powder every three or four hours, alternated with belladonna, when both 
remedies seem to be indicated. The following has often been beneficial: 

Extract of belladonna, 4 drachms. 

Tannic acid, 1 drachm. 

Bi-sulphite of soda, 4 drachms. 

Syrup, 5 ounces. 
Mix. 

Rub on the back teeth a piece as large as a hickory-nut two or three 
times a day. In case of external swelling and tenderness, use hot fomen- 
tations on the throat three times a day, with hot-bran poultices foHowing. 
Steam the nose as in Catarrh. Keep the stall well ventilated and give 
oil-cake or oatmeal gruel and cold water. Remember that foul air in the 
stable, as from poor ventilation, putrid and urine-soaked dung and litter, is 
a prolific source of sore throat. 



686 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



INFLUENZA.— EPIZOOTIC. 

Under these names we shall treat influenza in general, so interpreted 
as to include the epizootic scourge which raged so widely and so fatally in 
this country in 1872, and has appeared in less violent forms at different 
times since then. By treating the latter we cover the field of the former. 
That this influenza is borne from one place to another by diseased animals 
can scarcely be questioned; but that it is also communicated by the atmos- 
phere admits of scarcely more doubt. During its prevalence the human 
family has been afflicted with a disorder so similar to it that many have 
thought that man can take it from the horse. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms are numerous: First, loss of appetite; 
then the horse becomes indifferent in manner; fever, with rapid weakening; 
quick, soft, weak pulse; short, dry, catarrhal cough; breathing sometimes 




185. A Case of Confirmed Influenza 



hurried, sometimes difficult and painful; signs of pain during a fit of cough- 
ing; the nose and mouth show a yellowish-red mucous membrane; mouth 
dry and hot, with drooping lips; the eyes have drooping lids, and are sunken, 
with inner membrane of lids yellowish-red; swelling and dryness of the 
eyes and nose; swollen throat; skin dry and hot; coat staring in severe 
cases; heaving flanks; scanty, high-colored urine; costiveness; dry dung; 
sometimes cold extremities. Soon the pulse is more rapid and weak; the 
cough becomes looser but more pronounced; the membranes of the eyes, 
nose and mouth discharge an irritating fluid, afterward becoming thick, 
stringy and mattery; the eyelids swell and tears flow; the mouth fills with 
frothy, very offensive mucus; even swallowing water is sometimes pain- 
ful; loud, frequent and painful cough; increasing weakness; slimy evacua- 
tions; external swelling at the angle of the jaws and between the jaw-bones, 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 



687 



causing pain in swallowing. Though these symptoms may not all be ob- 
served, all cases will show more or less dullness and lack of energy, with 
stao^erins - 2fait and drag'grinsr legs. The nasal discharge, at first thin and 
scanty, becomes thick, yellowish or greenish, and blood-stained, perhaps 
coming away at irregular intervals in chunky masses, even in enormous 
quantities, sometimes filling up the nostril and occasionally giving off an 
offensive odor, the sense of smell in the animal being impaired or wholly 
lost. Should pneumonia or bronchitis ensue, the horse braces the fore feet, 
trembles, and breathes with increased difficulty. Some of these symptoms 
may be more prominent at some times and places than at others. At any 
rate, the animal is rendered unfit for service for a considerable time, even 
after the symptoms have subsided. Any chronic complaint will be aggra- 
vated by this disorder; temporary blindness may result; there is a liability 
to serious inflammation of the bronchial tubes and other vital parts; hence 
the urgent importance of careful attention from the beginning. 

Treatment. — Mild cases require rest, a warm, light, dry stable, 
thoroughly clean, blankets being used if necessary to keep the animal 
warm, wet feed, exercise, not faster than a walk; 
but medicine is unnecessary. In aggravated cases, 
select from the following remedies according to 
the symptoms. The jirst day or two, for short, 
dry cough, quick, strong pulse, quick, short breath- 
ing, shivering, thirst, loss of appetite, uneasiness, 
thin, transparent mucous discharge from the nostrils, 
give aconite in ten-drop doses every two hours. As 
the disease progresses, belladonna will be found 
valuable for drooping head; languor; dull eyes; 
short, dry cough, made worse by pressure o?i the 
wind-pipe / thick, white discharge from the nose. 
It should give place to another remedy when the 
cough becomes loose and the nasal discharge yel- 
lowish. Ammonia carbonate is needed for inflam- 
mation of the nasal membrane, either dry or with 
a discharge, which may be bloody; stoppage of the nose; sore throat; 
languor; dry cough, especially at night; swollen throat. The remedy is 
especially good for over-worked horses. Arsenicum is an invaluable remedy 
if there be great debility; burning, corroding nasal discharge; dry cough, 
made worse by cold air, and more pronounced after midnight; dry mouth; 
thirst, with little water taken at a time; profuse watering of the eyes; fever 
worse after midnight. It is indicated too in case of languor, restlessness, 
short breath, with panting, much weakness, and in the later stages is de- 



<*^r^ 




Applying Fumes to 
the Nose. 



688 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

manded by cold extremities, with dropsical tendency. Tonics are often 
necessary, and mix vomica will give relief if there be profuse nasal dis- 
charge; drooping head; languor; repeated dry, hard cough, worse from 
trotting, and often attended with passing of wind from the bowels; weak- 
ness; trembling; cold legs; lying down much. It is usually better to give 
this in alternation with arsenicum, at intervals of three or four hours, or 
with quinine in five-grain doses. Phosphorus is especially suited to cases, 
after the primary symptoms, in which the nasal discharge is profuse, thick, 
greenish, and j^erhaps offensive; the cough dry, hollow, hoarse and pain- 
ful, made worse by dust, cold air, strong-smelling urine, or pressure on the 
windpipe; rapid loss of flesh; lung-complications. If very stringy, thick, 
white or yellow mucus be discharged from the nose, or expelled by cough- 
ing, give kali bichromicum every one or two hours, one grain ground into 
sugar until thoroughly mixed being a suitable dose. The bowels should 
be kept free with bran-mashes, linseed or olive oil, and in case of great 
weakness stimulants and tonics should be used, among which we may men- 
tion carbonate of ammonia, Colombo, gentian and cinchona. Rest is im- 
pei'ative. Even strong horses recover much more readily and completely 
if relieved of work, though in good weather the animal should be gently 
exercised. Keep the stable thoroughly clean and well ventilated, and pro- 
vide clothing and warm bedding in cold weather. If the legs be cold, 
thoroughly rub them three times a day and wrap them comfortably when 
the weather is cold. The burning of tar in the stable may be of benefit, 
especially if some of the above remedies are administered. The fumes of 
burning tar or leather so used as to surely enter the nostrils will excite the 
membrane to action and thus facilitate the clearing of the nose. They may 
be applied by the use of a steaming-bag. The rubbing of liniment on the 
throat is of doubtful value, though this may serve a purpose in the absence 
of specific medicines. The best of such liniments is hartshorn. Give hay 
sparingly in mild cases, but avoid it in bad ones. Warm bran-mashes 
with tepid drinking-water are the best in severe cases. Boiled potatoes 
and turnips and raw apples are good. Corn meal soaked in hot water, in 
small quantities every few hours, is strengthening, and suited to late stages. 

PIXK-EYE. 

Pink-eye is epidemic in its character, much the same as the epizootic 
considered just above, though not so fatal. It is a fever and not a cold, as 
many suppose, though it is sometimes attended with influenza. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms are easily detected : The horse becomes 
dull and moody, with hanging head; the eyes become red and swollen, the 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. (589 

whites taking on a pinkish hue; ihe entire head is more or less swollen; 
the swelling extends to the legs as the disease progresses; there is a slight 
watery discharge from the nose; the mouth is feverish, and the irritation 
extends to the lungs in many cases. 

Treatment. — Insure rest, taking the horse completely from his work 
and giving only moderate exercise on fair days. Provide soft, clean bedding, 
and blankets in damp, cold or stormy weather, or if the animal is chilly. 
Give a regular diet of bran-mashes and good hay. This course will often, 
if not generally, be sufficient, but the internal remedies mentioned for 
Influenza may be selected :md used with profit in many cases. 

WEED. 

This consists in inflammation of the glands of the legs. The lym- 
phatic glands, which carry the dead matter of the body to the excreting 
organs, become weakened or overtaxed, and hence become clogged and 
swollen, and then they impart their trouble to other glands. It is frequent 
in cart-horses, especially when they have rested a day. It is caused by 
unwise feeding, especially changing from poor to good food, by over-work 
after continued rest, by exposure to cold and wet, by standing in water, and 
it is usually of a hereditary tendency. 

Sympto?ns. — The symptoms are at first the usual ones of fever. 
Occasionally the fore legs are attacked, but usually the hind ones, and of 
these most often the left. The horse raises his leg often as if in pain, and it 
will be swollen inside down to the hock or even the fetlock. The part is 
hot, extremely tender and painful. On the inner side of the leg and thigh 
is a hard enlargement of the glands, with lumps at intervals. The breathing 
is more rapid and the pulse rises to sixty or ninety. In extreme cases a fluid 
oozes from the skin and stands in drops on the hair. One attack predis- 
poses to another and these are apt to permanently enlarge the leg. 

Treatment. — Aconite should be given for feverish ness, tenderness 
swelling and heat, ten drops every three hours. Give iodide of mercury in 
one-grain doses when the glands are swollen and the secretions are sour and 
offensive; also when the disorder is brought on by cold, damp, draughts of 
air, or unfavorable changes in the weather. If the disease continues and 
there is a tendencv to a chronic state or to sloughing and abscesses, iodide of 
potassa will be found useful, ten grains three times a day, well diluted with 
water, being a proper dose. A paste of iodine may be rubbed on the swollen 
glands, or the tincture of the same may be applied after the inflammation 
has somewhat subsided. Rhus both internally and externally has been 
found efficacious if weed is the result of getting wet or cold when sweating^ 
44 



690 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and the glands are hard and tender. When the acute symptoms have 
abated, and the dropsical swellings, poor appetite, emaciation, prostration 
and suppression of urine continue as the principal symptoms, give arsenicum. 
Use hot fomentations for an hour, four to six times a day. Except during 
the acute stages, in which the horse should be at rest, only light work or 
exercise should be imposed, dry bandages being applied with pressure to the 
limb after such work or exercise. Guard against the causes named above. 

STRANGLES.— DISTEMPER. 

This disorder is more common in colts and young horses, but is occa- 
sionally found in mature and old animals. Among the more probable causes 
is teething or some disorder of the teeth, changeable weather being a favor- 
able condition to its occurrence, as is also a change from the field to the 
stable, or from idleness to activity. The disease attacks the same animal but 
once. The colt may be on pasture and require no treatment, but it is always 
best to give it care at once, since suffocation is liable to occur. 

Symptoms. — Among the first evidences of its presence one will often 
notice a general unthriftiness, loss of condition, dullness and langour, 
though these will not always be noticeable. Then a cough ensues, with an 
offensive yellow discharge from the nose; saliva sometimes profuse and 
stringy; swelling of the glands between the jaws and at the throat, render, 
ing chewing and swallowing painful; this swelling gradually increases, and 
sometimes pus forms under the throat, finally bursting and discharging; 
when drinking, water may flow out of the nostrils; the horse becomes 
feverish and loses his appetite; great thirst, with inability to drink because 
of pain in swallowing ; spasmodic coughing attends an attempt to drink. The 
swelling at the jaws may be hard and keep up the disease for a long time. 
Or it may disappear and be followed by formations of pus in the shoulders, 
groin, lungs, intestines, brain, or other part, producing serious or fatal effects. 

Treatment. — Give ten drops of aconite every four hours when there 
is an appearance of common cold, the horse being feverish, restless, dull and 
uncomfortable, with a dull, staring coat, diy, hot mouth, occasional cough, 
swollen glands about the jaw, quickened pulse, and loss of appetite. Six 
drops of belladonna mav be given in water or on sugar once in three hours 
when the back part of the mouth is dry, red, and inflamed. If there be 
constipation, give nux vomica every third hour until the appetite is restored. 

Great relief may be afforded by putting into a pail equal parts of 
vinegar and water, placing a hot brick in the dilution, and holding the pail 
in such a way that the steam will be inhaled. It will often prove so grate- 
ful that the horse will put his nostrils within reach of the steam of his own 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 691 

accord. The steaming-bag is also useful (see cut 186). It may be best to 
aid the formation of matter between the jaws if the swelling has advanced 
considerably. To do this, bind on a poultice. When the swelling has fully 
pointed or " gathered," open it and let the matter escape. It is of the utmost 
importance that the strength be sustained by tonics and an abundant supply 
of soft, nourishing food and pure air. If hot mashes are fed from a close 
nose-basket hung on the head, the steam will afford much relief, while the 
food does as much good as if otherwise taken. Other disorders are liable to 
set in along with strangles, and they should be treated as directed. 

RHEUMATISM. 

This is an inflammation which shifts from one part to another, with 
sudden, painful attacks, and usually affects the limbs, chest, and loins. 
When the sides and heart become affected, recovery is more doubtful. It 
usually results from neglect, the animal being exposed to cold and wet, or 
standing in water when warm. Bad food or whatever lowers the vitality 
will produce it. It becomes chronic after repeated attacks, and then the 
swelling of the parts becomes permanent. 

Symptoms. — Shivering at first; then the mouth and skin are hot, 
followed by marked stiffness and pain. If the shoulder be affected, the 
horse rests the toe frequently on the ground ; if the loins, the back is raised 
and the belly drawn up. Swelling and heat of the joints and tendons of 
the limbs ensue, especially about the fetlock; usually fever; furred tongue; 
pulse seventy to eighty, but variable; sour saliva; active bowels; heaving 
in the flanks; short, rapid breathing; free, acid sweats; warm skin and legs. 
In a disease of the foot, with which rheumatism of the shoulders is often 
confused, there is a difficulty in putting the foot to the ground, while in 
the latter there is difficulty in lifting the foot. When the trouble shifts 
rapidly from part to part, it is called " flying lameness." 

Treatment. — Aconite is needed for shivering; fever; local inflamma- 
tion, tenderness and swelling; hot mouth and skin; sweats on parts of the 
body; full, rapid pulse; high-colored urine; impaired appetite. This 
remedy is especially efficacious if there is danger that the rheumatism will 
shift to the heart, in which case ten drops should be given every hour for 
several doses. The following conditions call for bryonia: acute attacks, 
especially in the legs, shoulders and side; reluctance to move; pain aggra- 
vated by motion; full, frequent pulse; short respiration; loss of appetite; 
thirst; costiveness, with dry passage; high-colored urine. It is particularly 
useful for attacks induced by changes in the weather, by wind or dry, cold 
air, and it is one of the best general remedies for rheumatism. It may 



692 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



often be beneficially alternated with aconite. Rhus should be given if 
there be stiffness and pain on jirst moving after rest, but relieved by 
motion. It is especially valuable for rheumatism of the back; loss of 
muscular power of the legs; chronic rheumatism; cases that are induced 
by over-exertion and exposure to wet when tired; and this is also valuable 
when the tendons are chiefly involved. Cimicifuga is needed for swollen, 
heated joints; pain from motion; "flying lameness;" heart-complication; 
rheumatism which attacks the sides. Gelseminum is valuable for loss of 
muscular power / acute pain after long exertion; coldness and weakness of 




1S7. Sling and Dressing for Rheumatism. 



the legs; excessive action of the heart; cases that are worse at night. 
Phytolacca is efficacious in chronic rheumatism, with enlargement of the 
glands. Colchicum, muriate of ammonia and nitrate of potassa will be 
helpful in many cases. 

In the way of general care, protect the animal from cold and inclement 
weather; keep the stable warm and dry, putting on warm, dry clothing in 
damp, stormy, cold, or windy weather. Put hot fomentations and lini- 
ments on the affected parts, especially on swollen joints. Among the 
liniments we may mention, as being useful in general, soap-liniment and 
lotions of rhus and belladonna. Cornmeal and bran will make good 
poultices for enlarged glands and inflammations. Perhaps the best local 
application for the affected parts is flowers of sulphur, rubbed on and then 
covered with a thick layer of cotton-batting. Indeed, dry cotton-batting 
alone is one of the most grateful and useful of all applications and great 
relief will be afforded by keeping the affected members wrapped in it. 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 693 

Keep the horse quiet, but allow him to move when so inclined. In severe 
or long-standing cases, when the animal is unable to stand or lie down 
without much pain, it will be best to devise a sling and pulley to relieve 
the limbs of their burden. Give bran-mashes, carrots, clover, and milk- 
gruels. Care for the general health is the best of known expedients, es- 
pecially in chronic rheumatism, and is the best preventive. 

CRAMP. 

Symptoms. — In this disorder, which is a pain and knotting of the 
muscles after severe or long-continued exertion, the horse is sore and stiff; 
shows tenderness on pressure of the muscles, with difficulty and pain in 
moving the legs; hesitates to lie down, then drops suddenly, with a similar 
difficulty in rising; evinces but little change in appetite, pulse or respiration. 

Treatment. — Arnica should be given immediately after any length- 
ened or severe exertion which demands great muscular efforts, a dose 
every four hours; it will act both as a preventive and as a cure. Rhus is 
preferable after the specific symptoms have appeared and the horse is stiff 
and sore. Brisk rubbing followed by the application of bandages on the 
limbs is often all that is necessary to give the required relief. 

GLANDERS AND FARCY. 

Farcy consists in sores incident to glanders, and is not a separate dis- 
ease. The two constitute one of the most loathsome and fatal diseases of 
the horse, which is very highly contagious, being imparted to some other do- 
mestic animals and to man. It is some form of blood-poison, and may be 
taken from contact of the virus with some broken or irritated part of the 
skin, or by absorption from the air, and the poison is lasting, the virus retain- 
ing its potency after lying in a stall for months. Occasionally a sound 
horse is found which will not take the disease. The virus is more danger- 
ous when in food than in water. One horse often gets the disease by be- 
ing with an affected one, or in his stall, or contracts it from a man who has 
been handling a horse so diseased. If the animal has been in any way re- 
duced in his system, he is made more liable to the disease, and catarrh, 
strangles, and other disorders may terminate in glanders. 

Symptoms of Glanders. — The first symptoms of glanders are these: 
Quick pulse and breathing; feverish excitement; a thin, inodorous, trans- 
parent discharge, generally from one nostril, usually the left, the right be- 
ing less affected ; light leaden or purplish hue in the mucous membrane of the 
nose. This set of symptoms may last weeks or even months, with the 



694 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH, 




iSS. 



horse in apparently good health and at his usual work. In the second 
stage, the remaining nostril becomes much affected, the discharge is greater 
and is mucous and sticky, adhering to the edge of the nostrils; the lym- 
phatic glands beneath the jaw are enlarged, first on the side first affected, 
then on both sides, are tender and hard^ and stick close to the jaw. In the 
third stage, the discharge from the nostrils increases, 
is hard, yellow, perhaps blood-streaked, of offensive 
odor and mingled with pus; blood sometimes comes 
from the nostril; the mucous membrane of the nose 
has ulcers with ragged edges and low centers, which 
are marked by swollen yeins running from them in 
all directions; the sores spread back to the throat; 
the lower eyelid becomes diseased, slightly swollen, 
a small discharge of matter coming from the corner 
of the eye; after a time, loss of appetite, strength, 
PkoofofGl^ers. flesh an( ^ irit the swollen glands under the jaw 

i, jscr.—.i. -N -.sal Mem- r J 

brane. 2, Membrane with become more tender and adhere closely to the bone; 

Ulcers. 

skin "hide-bound;" legs, sheath and testicles swell 
during the day, becoming reduced at night; lameness; the hair turns the 
wrong way; ulcers in yarious parts of the body. These stages will be 
quite well marked in most cases. 

Strangles, pneumonia, distemper, and other disorders are also marked 
by the sticky discharge, nasal ulcers and swelling of the glands beneath 
the jaw, but usually show these symptoms about the same time, thus differ- 
ing from glanders. In the last also these are slow and eventually fatal, 
while in the other cases they are acute, rapid, and then subside. In catarrh 
the discharge from the nose, which in glanders is more marked in one nos- 
tril, is free in both nostrils, with prominent fever-symptoms. In lung- 
troubles some of the symptoms of glanders appear, but in the latter there 
is rarely any cough, while in the former a cough is nearly or quite always 
present. 

Symptoms of Farcy. — On the inside of one of the legs or thighs, on 
the thin skin of the neck or lips, or on the glands, may be a sore which will 
afterward grow into a hot, painful " farcy bud," at first hard, then soft 
and containing pus. This sore will burst and present a depressed center, a 
hard, ragged edge, with discharges of pus; the connecting lymphatics be- 
come inflamed, hard and corded, with tumors of varying size along them. 
Though at first confined to one leg, the tumors spread to other parts, reach- 
ing the head and throat. Then the skin becomes dropsical, as also the leg, 
especially near the breast. After a time the joints give forth a sound as if 
the bones were slipping in the sockets. One is apt to confuse farcy with 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 



6U5 



grease, surfeit and weed. The subjoined tables of symptoms will enable 
one to distinguish it from the first of the three. 



i. Skin moderately inflamed, not very 
red, nor glossy, nor subject to discharge. 

2. Swelling somewhat sudden, but not 
great, largest above the hock. 

3. Along the course of the inflamed 
lymphatics ulcers are formed, having an ir- 
regular circular shape and hard edges. 



1. Skin hot, very red, glossy, with clear 
and very acrid discharge. 

2. Swelling very great, especially at the 
lowest part, spreading in all directions, but 
chiefly downward. 

3. On the heels clusters of small vesicles 
arise, which become pustular and exude 
an acrid discharge, which causes the skin 
to crack in deep fissures. 



In surfeit the sores come out suddenly on different parts, while in 
farcy they appear one by one. In weed the large vein on the inside of 
the thigh is affected, whereas in farcy the lymphatics on either side of this 
vein are swollen, hard and corded. In general, the "farcy buds" are the 
decisive marks of farcy, whether on the legs or body; and when they affect 
the nose, they constitute true glanders. 

Treatment. — " The acute disease is fatal. The chronic form occa- 
sionally appears to recover, though more commonly the symptoms are cov- 
ered up to reappear whenever the animal is put to hard work. The treat- 
ment of glanders in all its forms, and of acute farcy with open sores, should 
be legally prohibited because of the danger to man as well as animals." 
(Law.) The writer's first and urgent advice is to shoot the affected horse 
as soon as he is known to have the glanders or farcy. Where legal restric- 
tions against treatment of the disease exist, the course of the attendant is 
clear. If the horse is so valuable that the owner, in the absence of such 
restrictions, prefers to attempt the treatment at the risk of communicating 
such a dreadful disease to members of his household, to his neighbors, and 
to domestic animals, he will be assisted by the following notes. 

Carbolic acid is useful for both its internal and local effects. Mix ten 
drops of the strong acid in a pint of pure water and administer this internally 
in four doses six hours apart. Put twenty drops of the same strong acid in 
two pints of pure water, and frequently wipe out the nostrils with this di- 
lution, using a syringe if the affected parts are otherwise beyond reach. 
Cleanse the ulcers and " buds " with the same, and bathe with it the dis- 
ordered lymphatics, keeping cloths on the farcied parts moistened with this 
dilution, if this be practicable. When moistening the sponge and cloths 
with which the nostrils or other parts are to be treated, pour the liquid on 
them, so that what is in the vessel will be pure. Kali bichromicum may 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



have a good effect when the discharge from the nostril is grayish and 
sticky, or like the white of egg; the nasal membrane of a slate-color, with 
elevations which contain pus; the gland under the jaw adhering to the 
jaw, or enlarged. Dissolve one grain of the drug in twelve ounces of water 
and give a wineglassful of this three times a day. If the farcy buds be 
washed night and morning with a lotion of one drachm of the salt of the 
same drug in sixteen ounces of water, good results may be expected. Doses 
of five grains of arseniate of strychnia are highly recommended. Iodide 
of arsenic will have a good effect if given three times a day as soon as the 
"buds" have become full of pus, or when ulcers appear, or when there 
are no inflammatory symptoms. If this remedy and kali bichromicum ap- 
pear to be indicated at the same time, they should be given in alternation, 
and such alternation will be especially valuable when farcy and true 
glanders exist at the same time, the horse becoming poor and weak. Bi- 
sulphite of soda in two-drachm doses is a good general remedy for glanders. 
When the farcy buds become soft, they should be 
opened with a sharp knife and a lotion be injected into 
them composed of five grains of chloride of zinc and one 
ounce of water. If the wound is not inclined to heal in 
a day or two, repeat this injection in two or three days. 
Ulcers may also be washed once or twice with this lotion, 
and be subsequently cleansed with strong salt-water four 
to six times a day if a cure is not effected. After wash- 
ing the sores with salt-water, apply equal parts of flour 
and pounded charcoal three times a day, if the former 
treatment has not succeeded. A thick layer of calomel 
is also efficacious when the sores are slow about healing. 
Keep the horse clean and give moderate exercise or 
light work. The best of hay and a moderate allowance 
of oats, with carrots and other green food, will be a 
suitable diet. Keep the stable clean, airy but not cold, change the bedding 
often, and use carbolic acid freely in 'washing the floor. Pure air, rich food, 
and an absence of exhausting labor are essentials in the treatment and pre- 
vention. 

To prevent the spread of this dreadful disease, which is usually fatal 
however well treated, the best plan is to shoot the horse and bury him deep 
in the ground — it is still better to burn him — and no other course is free 
from danger to man or beast. Remember that a heavy penalty is incurred 
in some States by exposing glandered horses in a public place. All sus- 
pected animals should be carefully secluded until they are safe from infec- 
tion, or have been cured or destroyed. All rags, sponges, brushes, pails, 




Farcy on the In- 
side of the Thigh. 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 697 

and like articles which have been used in treating a glandered horse should 
be burned, as that is absolutely safe, though a thorough washing with car- 
bolic acid may counteract the virus. The stable, manure, and whatever 
the infected animal has touched, should be thoroughly treated with carbolic 
acid, the bedding being burned. Let the attendants be as few as can do the 
necessary work. Never handle a glandered or farcied horse if the skin 
of the hands is sore or broken, for man may readily take the disease and 
suffer distressingly if not fatally. Always wash the hands in dilute car- 
bolic acid after treating an infected animal, and before going near other 
people or beasts. If the clothes have the virus on them, or if doubt exists as 
to this, they should be washed in the same way. Keep well animals of all 
kinds completely away from an infected one. Every one who is to go near 
the suffering horse should be fully advised upon the virulent nature of the 
disease, and take the necessary precaution against contracting it. 

DROPSY. 

The cause of dropsy is some obstruction of the circulation, or a dis- 
eased state of the blood, with general reduction of the system. It is called 
general dropsy when it causes a collection of watery fluid under the tissues 
of the skin generally, hydrothorax when it affects the lungs merely, and 
ascites when the belly or intestines are involved. General dropsy is caused 
by exposure to wet and cold, as when a horse is turned out of a warm 
stable to a marsh, or to pasture in cold weather; the coating processes of 
spring and autumn are causes, as well as derangement of the heart. Hy- 
drothorax is occasioned by general weakness, by fever-epidemics, as influ- 
enza; and also results from the unwise operation of bleeding. Ascites has 
the same causes as genera] dropsy, and is also a result of diseases of the 
belly, chest and membranes about the small intestines, indigestion, obstruc- 
tion of the veins, and general debility; it frequently results from peritonitis. 

Symptoms. — The universal symptom of dropsy is swelling of the skin, 
which retains for some time indentations of the fingers, and is attended 
with great weakness, with absence of inflammation and pain; fever-symp- 
toms, at first slight, become marked. If hydrothorax results from pleurisy 
when acute symptoms subside the motion of the water in the chest may be 
clearly detected by striking with the hand; the animal loses a]3petite, 
grows languid, depressed, weak, and has an anxious look; the back is rigid, 
flanks drawn in, hair rough and easily pulled from the tail and mane; pulse 
rapid, feeble, and finally imperceptible at the jaw; nostrils spread; eyes, 
mouth and nose of a leaden color; breathing short and very labored; fore 
legs stand apart; urine scanty, bowels bound; swellings over the limbs, 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

belly and sheath. In ascites the belly gradually swells so that alternate 
and rapid pressure by the hand on the sides will produce fluctuations of 
water and a dull sound; breathing becomes difficult as the water increases; 
usually external swellings of the belly and sheath follow; coat dry and 
loose; urine thick and sedimentous; skin hide-bound; griping pains; the 
usual costiveness is followed by diarrhoea, with offensive dung. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for inflammatory general dropsy, when 
the swelling comes on suddenly and rapidly spreads, with hastened breath- 
ing and pulse, thirst, reddening of the eyes and nostrils; and also if this 
condition results from a sudden check of the secretions of the skin from 
exposure to wet' or cold. Arsenicum is of the highest value in all forms of 
dropsy that are marked, in addition to the swelling, by weakness, emacia- 
tion, loss of spirits, great thirst, loss of appetite, dry tongue, difficult 
breathing, small, weak and irregular pulse, cold legs, scanty and turbid 
urine, and diarrhoea. Digitalis may be given when the heart is implicated 
and the pulse is small, feeble, intermittent and irregular, breathing difficult, 
and urine scanty. It is useful in almost every kind of dropsy, even in des- 
perate cases, and may often be beneficially alternated with arsenicum. Apis 
is highly useful, especially when fever-difficulties are present, such as 
hurried breathing, small and quick pulse ; for passages of urine which forms 
a reddish sediment and for rapid swellings. It is particularly valuable 
for ascites in the first stages, and is also useful for hydrothorax. In the 
general care measures should be taken to avoid cold, dampness, and vigorous 
exercise, though a little walking for an hour may be given, if no fever- 
symptoms exist. Let the horse take exercise in a loose box during inflam- 
matory dropsy, and give mashes of green food; but barley, boiled oats and 
the best of hay are needed if there be much weakness. Tapping should 
not be resorted to until a fair trial of medicines has been given. This 
operation is performed in ascites by cutting the navel with a lancet, the 
fluid being drawn with the trocar and canula, the skin drawn over the 
cut, and pressure applied with bandages. In other forms the swellings may 
be pricked in the parts hanging down the most, the discharges being sub- 
sequently promoted by fomentations and pressure applied to the parts. 

SPLENIC FEVER.— ANTHRAX. 

This fever is acute and contagious, is marked by a great enlarge- 
ment of the spleen, and is rapid in its progress. It is caused by the con- 
tact of an infected animal with one that is healthy. It is more common 
among cattle than among horses. For fuller notes upon its different forms, 
see this disease in the Ox. 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 

Symptoms. — Loss of appetite; thirst; cold and shivering; coldness of 
the surface, followed by heat; convulsive movements and peculiar spasms 
about the extremities; pulse and respiration quickened; temperature from 
105 ° to no°; bloody dung; whitish discharge from the nose; high-col- 
ored, odorous urine. Though the symptoms are usually regular, they may 
be intermittent, the horse being seemingly almost well during their inter- 
missions. Recovery or death comes on rapidly. In fatal cases the breath- 
ing is exceedingly difficult, the convulsions in the back, loins and muscles 
of the eyes are violent; the temperature falls; loss of power ensues, and 
death is precipitated by a suspension of circulation. Carbuncles attend 
this fever, and are at first hot, tender, and easily indented, but soon become 
hard, painless and cool, terminating in ulcers. Yellow serum or blood 
may exude from some parts of the skin; the mucous membranes become 
puffy, stopped up, or streaked, with a bloody and offensive discharge finally 
coming from the nose. Sight, locomotion, eating, drinking and urination 
become impaired or impeded. Death may ensue in a few hours, or the 
animal may linger weeks, or even months. During the progress of the 
disease the animal hangs on the halter, leans against any object within 
reach, lies down, but soon rises again, turns the head toward the flank, and 
shows signs of pain in the belly. 

Treatment. — If symptoms of fever are chiefly noticeable, give ten 
drops of aconite every half-hour. For the general fever give one part of 
strong liquor ammonium causticum to ten of water every half-hour. For 
apoplectic symptoms belladonna and aconite may be used, fifteen or twenty 
minutes apart. For local swellings and carbuncles give arsenicum or 
Phytolacca. If the dung becomes bloody, with straining during the dis- 
charges, and if the urine be bloody, give mercurius corrosivus. In the way 
of general care give a change of air, a comfortable stable and nutritious 
food. Remove an animal dying from this trouble, and cleanse the stall 
and all its furniture before admitting another horse. Carbolic acid has 
proved serviceable as a preventive. Further directions as to general care 
may be found under the treatment of this disease in the Ox. 

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA.— ACUTE ANASARCA. 

This depends upon some unknown change in the blood or its vessels, 
perhaps both, by which the blood oozes into the skin and its tissues, and 
into the internal cavities and organs. It is supposed to be caused by ill- 
ventilated stables, over- work, bad or scanty food, damp stables; indeed, 
whatever checks proper blood-making; it often follows some catarrhal 
trouble. 



700 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 




190. Head Deformed 
by Purpura Hemor- 
rhagica. 



Symptoms. — The symptoms are full pulse, about sixty; breathing 
about twenty ; irregular swellings of various size, consisting of blood, un- 
der or in the skin, especially in the legs, becoming enormous at the hocks, 
ending short at the elbow-joints and stifle ; the nostrils and lips are swollen, 
hard and shiny; the chambers of the nose so far closed 
as to cause difficulty in breathing; nasal membrane 
very red and marked with purple spots of varying 
size, similar spots being on the inside of the lips, which, 
when pricked, give out blood. Soon the pulse be- 
comes weaker and the urine high-colored; swellings 
enlarge and extend to the belly, flanks and other parts ; 
eyes blood-shot; the nasal membrane blackens; the spots 
become ulcerous, with shreds of tissue hanging out; 
a dark bloody fluid, perhaps mixed with water, flows 
from the nose; the swellings on some parts become 
cold, very hard and insensible, break off, and leave raw sores; a fluid stands 
on the hair, principally under the belly; blood passes with the urine, or in 
clots; the horse is weak, is unable to move the swollen legs, and eats little, 
perhaps nothing. 

It should be observed that in Weed the femoral vein is enlarged and 
tender, but not in purpura hemorrhagica, and that in the former the 
swelling on the inside of the thigh is hard and not elastic. Again, in Glan- 
ders and Farcy there are swollen lips and nose, with a brown, pussy dis- 
charge from the nostrils, and ulceration of the dividing wall of the nose; 
but they are not attended by the sudden swelling of both thighs, without 
cording, and of the muscles of the chest; nor by the purple blotches inside 
the lips and gums; nor by the dark purple shade of the nasal membrane 
after the small red spots. These distinctive features should be carefully noted, 
for purpura hemorrhagica is for some strange reason not unfrequently 
mistaken for farcy and glanders. 

Treatment. — Kali bichromicum has proved to be a most valuable 
remedy, especially when sloughing of the mucous membrane of the nose 
or parts of the skin takes place, and when pimples appear on the skin. 
It may be given every three hours at first, the intervals being lengthened 
as the animal improves. Among the best remedies for this disorder we 
may mention ergot and arsenic, the latter being suitably given in the form 
of Fowler's Solution. As soon as the inflammatory symptoms subside, or 
even in the start, when the malignant symptoms are very marked, these 
two should be given, the former in doses of ten to fifteen drops alternated 
with five-drop doses of the latter every two hours. Wash the sores with 
a solution of carbolic acid or chloride of zinc, so far diluted as to avoid irri- 



THE HORSE — GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 701 

tation. Provide a dry stable, with good ventilation. Give nourishing food. 
Require but little work, but insure a reasonable amount of light exercise. 

ABSCESSES. 

Abscesses are collections of pus in some parts or organs of the body. 
They may result from some of the diseases or injuries elsewhere mentioned 
in this work, as fever, for instance, or they may be caused by a disorder in 
the blood without any apparent previous disease. Some part is inflamed 
and pus forms, which will either float about in the tissues or be collected in 
one place, the enveloping sac becoming full and yielding to the touch, and 
generally rising to a point or " head," finally bursting and letting out its 
contents. They may and generally do form under the skin, but may oc- 
cur within the animal, as in the lungs. When they are deep in the flesh 
the pus cannot readily come out, and a narrow canal is formed 
which leads to the surface. 

Treatment. — If the abscess be in the inner organs, an improvement 
of the horse's general condition is all that one can do, and regard should 
be had to the feeding, grooming, ventilation and the like. If the abscess 
can be reached, cut it open at the most prominent point when it pulsates, is 
soft and nearly ready to burst. In such cases it would soon burst spon- 
taneously, but cutting averts the rough, irregular and large opening which 
the natural process causes. Should it not come to a point, but spread, open 
at once. If the disorder is owing to the presence of irritating fluids, open 
immediately and let the fluids escape. If the formation of pus be unduly 
slow, apply a poultice or mild blister, but not until the abscess shows signs 
of coming to a head. If the sore be deep in the flesh, and a canal has 
been formed leading to the surface, it will often be necessary to cut the 
walls of the canal completely open to the bottom, thus making an incised 
wound, and treating as directed under Incised Wounds. It is seldom, if 
ever, advisable to check or disperse matter when once forming. When an 
opening has been cut, gently squeeze out the matter and inject 'warm water 
into the sore with a syringe twice daily for two or three clays, and keep the 
edges of the sore clean. If bloody matter is discharged, add some diluted 
ammonia to the warm water. 

For high fever, local inflammation, swelling or tumor threatening an 
abscess, give ten drops of aconite every two or three hours. If suppuration 
is slow, give hepar every three hours. For an abscess which discharges a 
thin, discolored, offensive matter or pus of a bad odor, give five grains of 
asafcetida three times daily, and apply a wash of either one grain of 
chloride of zinc to an ounce of water, or ten drops of carbolic acid to an 



702 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ounce of water. Baryta carbonica is valuable for hard tumors in the head, 
enlarged glands which threaten to form pus, or tubercles in the jaw; it aids 
in softening hard abscesses, and also removes scrofulous tumors without 
suppuration. Abscesses are very debilitating and need good treatment. 

ULCERS. 

Ulcers often follow bruises and other extended injuries, and take place 
especially when the system is unhealthy, but may result from inflamma- 
tion. They are a separation of dead tissue from surrounding parts, and 
are attended with a secretion of pus. If the ulcers appear on a mucous 
membrane, there will at first be seen a red point or two, with a few small 
vesicles on the surface of the part affected, a watery fluid exuding from 
beneath, and sometimes a thick, gray, slimy lymph. The ulcer grows 
larger as parts of the tissue come away, its edges becoming ragged and 
swollen. It may be deep, extending in different directions; round and 
shallow, with ragged edges, and spreading out; or sloughing, parts of the 
tissue flaking off. 

Treatment. — Have regard to the general health by insuring nourish- 
ing food, fresh air, good grooming and rest. Nearly always avoid the use 
of ointments. Plain cold water is the best external treatment. If the 
formation of pus is too long delayed, press around the sore lightly, and 
should this not avail, use a mild blister somewhat frequently. Should the 
granulations be excessive in the healing, apply lunar caustic or powdered 
burnt alum. If the injury results from chafing of the saddle or harness, 
follow the treatment given under Galls. For fever, give ten drops of 
aconite every three hours for a day or two. Mercurius is needed for 
spreading ulcers, corroding discharge, and rawness. Arsenicum is demanded 
for ulcers which result from a debilitated constitution, hard work, and 
poor fare; for deep, readily bleeding, inflamed, putrid, gangrenous, corrod- 
ing, mortifying and spreading ulcers; for those with thin pus of bad odor. 
Give five to ten drops three times daily. Asafcetida is desirable for bluish 
ulcers, turning black, with hard edges, and painful to the touch, the dose 
being three to five grains three times a day. Ten drops of sulphuric acid 
every four hours will be beneficial for ulcers with dark spots and discolored 
skin when the cause is some mechanical injury, bruise or pressure. 

FISTULA FISTULOUS WITHERS. 

In this disease matter forms from an inflammation caused by a badly- 
fitting collar or saddle, usually a side-saddle, or other injury. The matter 






THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 703 

is confined in the muscles and ligaments, forms canals, and passes down to 
the muscles connecting- the shoulders with the trunk. Sometimes, however, 
the abscess takes the form of a sac with serum in it, when the case is 
easily cured. In the worst form, the muscles connected with the neck, 
back and legs being involved, the inflammation rapidly extends, the liga- 
ments, muscles and cartilages are affected, the shoulder is lowered, and 
much damage occurs. 

Syjnptoms. — Swelling and tenderness on the withers or at the side of 
the upper end of the spine, soon attended with softness. If the skin be 
much bruised, a piece comes off, leaving an unhealthy sore, through which 




Advanced Stage of Fistulous Withers. 



a discharge runs out from a sac that may be detected with a probe; or 
fistulous ducts may run in various directions. In some cases there is a hard 
tumor on the withers which stubbornly remains, but will not suppurate. 

Treatment. — First alter the saddle, or keep the horse from work 
a few days. If the swelling be recent and soft, apply a lotion of arnica 
and glycerine with lint and oil-silk until the inflammation subsides. If the 
tumor bursts or is cut open, bathe it with a lotion of one part of arnica to 
two of water. If a serous sac or fistulous canal exists in the swelling, it must 
be opened for the escape of the matter. Generally it is best to make the 
opening low down on the right side, since the horse usually lies on that side 
and the matter will more completely be discharged in this way. After the 
opening has been made, dress with a lotion of calendula, one part to 
four of water, four times daily and inject some of the same into the canals, 
if such exist. If the walls of the canals thicken, become hard and indis- 
posed to heal, zinc, copper, or mercurius corrosivus, in weak solution, 
should be injected until renewed action is set up; then the calendula-lotion 
will complete the cure. If the bone is involved and decays, it should be 
removed by a surgeon. Of course only a skillful surgeon can make the 
opening in the canals if they be deep down in the fleshy tissues. 



704 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

FISTULOUS XOSE. 

Wounds sometimes produce ulcers in the back part of the nose, perhaps 
inducing ulceration of the bones which discharges a thin, unhealthy, pus- 
like fluid, such ulcers being of a fistulous character. • 

Treatment. — Apply to the fistula a solution of carbolic acid, ten drops 
to an ounce of glycerine. Wash well with soap and water. The following 
formula will be useful if the fistula does not heal but remains unhealthy : 

Hydrastia, 20 grains. 

Iodoform, 10 grains. 

Sugar, 1^ ounce. 

Pulverize together in a mortar until they are thoroughly mixed: then 
apply to the fistula once a day, blowing it from a quill. 

POLL EVIL. 

Poll evil results from some blow on the top of the head, or from a 
coarse, heavy head-collar chafing the part. 

Symptoms. — Hanging head, the horse being unwilling to be handled 
about the ears; painful swelling just back of the ears on the top of the head, 
at first hard, then growing soft, of the nature of an abscess, gradually 
coming to a head, bursting, and discharging m; inch is sometimes 

healthy, in other cases, when the liga- 
ments and bones are involved, unhealthy 
and offensive. The probe will detect 
a single cavity, without canals, or canals 
massing in different directions, perhaps 
extending to the bone. 

Treatment. — This disease is very 
difficult of treatment except in the 
earliest stages, when it may be checked 
by removing the cause and applying 

Poll Evil in an Early Stage. ^^ tQ the part> The f ormat i on f 

matter should be prevented if possible. When this can not be done 
open the hard, painful swelling {if you are a skillful operator), and apply 
lint saturated in equal parts of glycerine, calendula and water, oil-silk being 
put on then, and a linen hood with openings for the ear being fastened on 
with tapes around the jaw and neck. Moisten the linen three times daily 
with the lotion. Should the tumor become soft and mobile, a surgeon 
should at once open it, in such a way, if possible, as to allow the matter to 




THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 705 

run out. If matter still remains, it may be removed with a sponge. When 
canals exist where the surgeon deems it unsafe to make an opening, and a 
thin, bloody discharge comes off, indicating diseased bones and tendons, a 
weak solution of corrosive sublimate or of chloride or sulphate of zinc should 
be injected daily. When the matter becomes thick and white, calendula- 
lotion may be injected instead of the corrosive sublimate or zinc. When 
there is a low state of the system, tonics should be given, as iron and cin- 
chona. When such a state is accompanied by a thin, foul, bad-smelling and 
corroding discharge, give arsenicum. Aconite is needed for primary in- 
flammation, ten drops of dilute tincture being put in a pint of water and 
given two or three times daily until the inflammation subsides. 

WOUNDS* 

The whole subject of wounds may be treated under this general head. 
We divide the matter into four groups, namely, contused wounds, incised 
wounds, punctured wounds, and lacerated wounds. 

CONTUSED WOUNDS. 

By this term we mean those in which the skin is bruised, but not cut 
through or broken. They are caused by some mechanical violence, such as 
a halter accidentally caught around the leg, a fall, a kick, or a blow. The 
symptoms are redness, heat, swelling and pain of the affected part. 

Treatment. — In mild cases wet two or three folds of linen in a lotion 
made of one ounce of calendula, two ounces of glycerine and a half-pint of 
water, and place them on the parts with a wet bandage, repeating this every 
two hours. If the skin and under-lying parts are much affected, foment the 
part with warm water constantly during the day, and apply a bran-poultice 
at night. When the sore grows soft, let the matter out with a lance, or 
sharp knife, the fomentation only being then continued. If lymph forms 
instead of pus, and the swelling still remains, rub the part with the calen- 
dula-lotion twice a day. Should this fail, rub in daily a small quantity 
of a preparation composed of four ounces of soap-liniment and one-half 
ounce of camphor. Apply carbolic-acid lotion if flies lay eggs in the 
wound. 

One of the best applications for open wounds, mentioned here but 
applicable as well to clean cuts and lacerated wounds, is a decoction of but- 

* The reader will find on pages 325-327 notes upon the methods of healing- and the chief points to 
be aimed at in the treatment of wounds. The necessary changes in phraseology will make the main part 
of those remarks applicable to wounds in the horse and other domestic nnimals. 

45 



706 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



ternut bark. Fill a kettle with this bark, chopped fine, cover with water, 
and let it simmer slowly, adding water as it evaporates, until a strong tea 
is made. Apply with a swab. This will both keep the wound clean and 
prevent the flies from infesting it, two very important points. 

INCISED WOUNDS, OR CLEAN CUTS. 

Incised wounds are those in which a clean cut is made, without lacera- 
tion, by some sharp -edged instrument. 

Treatment. — In many cases the lips of the wound close and heal 
without treatment. In other cases calendula-lotion will be found an excel- 
lent external application. If the wound fails to yield to this treatment, 
the surgeon must join the lips by some process, and it is advised to call 
him at first in case of severe cuts. If the loss of blood be considerable, 
give tonics to restore the strength, such as cinchona. 

Bleeding is generally of little consequence unless a large artery be 
cut, which is indicated by spurts of bright-scarlet blood; then the mouth 
of the artery should be seized at once with forceps, and a ligature be put 
around it. If this be impracticable, put tow in the wound and hold it with 
a bandage. Pieces of lint soaked in a lotion of millefolium, one part of 
the strong tincture to nine of water, may be put in the wound, to the bot- 
tom, and be left until the healing of the wound pushes them out; this will 
be better than the tow. Cold water dashed on the part will often stop 
bleeding; as also will strong alcohol. If bleeding will not stop after the 
lips of the wound have been held together, and the attendant has no ready 
means for tying the artery, he should apply pressure firmly on the blood- 
vessel above the wound (toward the heart) by passing a bandage around 
the affected member, with a stone or walnut resting on the artery, then 
putting a stick underneath and twisting the bandage until the flow stops. 
Severe bleeding from a vein (indicated by a constant, not spurting stream) 
may.be checked by like pressure applied below the wound. If flies lay eggs 
in the wound, wash with a lotion of carbolic acid. Read the note under 
Contused Wounds upon the use of the decoction of butternut bark. 

PUNCTURED WOUNDS OR PRICKS. 

Punctured wounds have small openings, but are usually deeper and 
more serious than others. They are made with pitchforks, nails, thorns, 
splinters, crockery, and the like. 

Treatment. — Remove thorns, splinters, or other foreign body from 
the wound. If the injury is not near a joint, or has not penetrated a ten- 
don, it is best to lay open the wound and make an ordinary incised wound, 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 707 

treating it then as directed under the last subject above. If a tendon be 
punctured and fluid is discharged around it, or if a joint be punctured, 
adopt the treatment laid down under Open Joints. If lock-jaw ensues, as 
is likely to be the case from this kind of wound, especially if the foot be 
pricked, consult the section on that subject. Should flies' eggs be seen in 
the sore, apply carbolic-acid lotion for their destruction. 

LACERATED WOUNDS. 

These are injuries in which the skin and parts under it are torn, jag- 
ged, irregular, and often bruised. They are caused by nails or hooks in 
the walls of the stable, poles or sticks running into the flesh, and the like. 

Treatment. — Bring the parts of the wound as nearly as possible in- 
to the natural position of the skin, and cut off those portions of lacerated 
skin which you know would surely slough off eventually. Grit or 
sand should be previously removed, by bathing in warm water if the bleed- 
ing be slight, or by dashing on cold water if the bleeding be profuse. If 
the wound be large, a surgeon may sew the parts, bringing the lips closely 
together. For the inflammation, which is usually severe, use warm fomen- 
tations every one, two or three hours, keeping a bandage on to exclude the 
air and to prevent the washing away of the lymph which is essential to 
healing. In about a week, when inflammation has subsided, remove the 
bandage and discontinue fomentations, allowing a little water to run over 
the wound to remove superfluous matter. The use of a sponge must be 
avoided, as it will remove the lymph. Indeed, unless the matter is very 
plentiful and has a bad smell, even water should not run over the wound. 
When healing commences, oil-silk or collodion, applied with a very soft 
brush, may be put on the sore to exclude the air. Liniments are usually 
harmful; nature should take her course, with such assistance as has been 
mentioned, until granulations appear in the wound, when calendula-lotion 
will aid the skinning-over of the injury. Should the granulations rise 
above the skin, or "proud flesh" form, apply finely-powdered sulphate of 
zinc. For flies' eggs in the wound, apply a lotion of carbolic acid. Read 
the remark under Contused Wounds upon the use of butternut bark. 

OPEN JOINT OF THE LOWER JAW. 

This needs some special mention, and may be considered here, lacera- 
tion of the tongue being another specific kind of wound that will be 
noticed. Such open joint may be caused by a blow, the joint-oil escaping, 
the parts becoming painful and swollen, and the joint possibly becoming 
so inflamed as to cause disease in the bone and prevent eating. 



7 (, > COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Keep the jaws fixed by a head-collar, with a strap 
fastened around the face and lower jaw above the nostrils. Feed onlv 
thick gruels and other fluids until the jaw is completely healed. 

LACERATION OF THE TONGUE. 

Laceration of the tongue may result from a high port-bit; the forcible 
administration of food; irregular or long, rough teeth; a blow when the 
tongue hangs out; thorns, sharp bones, and the like. The symptoms are 
slobbering and inability to eat, which will lead to an examination that will 
discover the laceration. 

Treatment. — Remove foreign bodies. Apply a lotion of equal parts 
of calendula and water. If ulcers appear, apply alum or hydrastis. Keep 
the bit out of the mouth for some time. Give soft green food. 

GENERAL CARE IN WOUNDS. 

Keep the wounded parts at rest. Remove an}' foreign bod} - or mat- 
ter that may be in the wound. If the jaw be injured, give only sloppy 
diet, such as does not require mastication. If the legs are affected, the 
horse should be tied up in many cases, and occasionally should be so placed 
that he cannot gnaw the wound. If " proud flesh " forms, which is an 
excessive and unhealthy granulation, apply sulphate of zinc or copper. 
nitrate of silver, or alum. If the healing process be too slow or stopped, 
the wound may be roused again to action by gently removing the edges 
with a knife if it be in the skin, or by other mechanical irritation if an- 
other part be thus dormant. Poisoned wounds, as from snake-bites, should 
be promptly cauterized, as directed under Hydrophobia. All indications 
of lock-jaw should be promptly regarded. It is also desirable, often very 
urgent, that oil-silk be put over the dressing to exclude the air. 

STAKING. 

Staking is an injury sustained by leaping a fence or gate, the skin and 
tissues of the abdomen being punctured or torn. 

Treatment. — If the skin is not broken, but the muscles are torn, and 
the bowel falls into the torn part underneath, a well-fitting pad must be 
bandaged on and kept wet with arnica-lotion. Should the skin be broken 
and the bowel hang out, keep the horse where he is, gentlv wash blood 
and grit from the bowel with warm water, and replace it with gentle 
pressure and manipulation. The surgeon will then draw the lips of the 
wound together and bind them with pins and tow. With a bandage around 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 709 

the body fasten on the part a pad kept wet in calendula- lotion. If the 
bowel has been torn, the surgeon will sew it up before replacing it. Give 
aconite and arnica alternately, ten drops every two hours. Keep the 
horse quiet. Give soft food, and that sparingly. 

SPRAINS. 

A sprain is an over-stretching of muscles, ligaments or tendons, and 
may arise from either of various causes. It affects any part that is subject 
to such undue tension. 

Symptoms. — Pain on pressure, or motion; redness; swelling; heat; 
fever of the affected member, and sometimes of the general system. Since a 
sprain will impair or destroy the use of the parts, the muscles about such 
parts will waste more or less, such a condition being known by the gen- 
eral term " sweeny," though it is popularly applied quite exclusively to 
such a condition about the shoulders. This specific form of sweeny will be 
considered further on. 

General Treatment of Sprains. — For fever, when it exists, 
give aconite several times a day. Arnica is needed when the sprain is in 
the muscles; and rhus if it is in the tendons or ligaments. Apply fomenta- 
tions, or bandages kept wet in water (hot in winter and cold in summer), 
or in a lotion of arnica or rhus. Lint wet in equal parts of glycerine, al- 
cohol and water, and covered with oil-silk and a bandage, is an excellent 
dressing. Poultices will be found beneficial in some cases. Simple rest 
may be sufficient in some sprains, and is always essential. When the inflam- 
mation has been reduced by any of the means which have been mentioned, 
a lotion of one part of rhus to eight of water may be well rubbed in night 
and morning, and a moderately tight bandage be applied. An excellent 
liniment is made on the following formula: 

Soap liniment, 4 ounces. 

Camphor, y^ ounce. 

Liquor ammonite, 1 ounce. 

Mix. 

Rub on a spoonful once a day, for two or three days perhaps, but dis- 
continue it as soon as a mild blister is produced. Keep the horse's head 
tied up forty-eight hours, and repeat the application in ten days if necessary. 

SWEENY. 

We apply this term, in its popular sense, to a sprain of the muscles 
which fill the back cavity on the outer side of the shoulder-blade, and 



710 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

which pass over the outer side of the shoulder-joint. It chiefly affects 
colts and young horses that are put to the plow, but occurs in any horses 
that travel on uneven ground where they are liable to step into holes. 

Symptoms. — Heat, swelling, tenderness on the outside of the shoulder- 
joint, and a gait which is peculiar to this disorder; the walk or trot may be 
attended with little or no lameness; looking at the animal from in front, 
one sees that the affected shoulder rolls outward much more than the other; 
the muscles soon begin to waste rapidly, and in extreme cases the shoulder- 
blade will seem to be covered only by the skin. Like symptoms, even 
including the characteristic waste of the muscles, may attend sprains in 
other parts, more notably the haunch, and such cases require substantially 
the same treatment as shoulder-sweeny. 

Treatment. — It may take treatment for months to effect a eomplete 
filling of the cavity, but this can be done if the case is taken before it has 
stood long ; in those which are fully confirmed only a partial restoration 
can be effected. In the first stages, marked by heat and other acute symp- 
toms, treat as directed for Sprains. After such symptoms have been 
subdued, impose exercise on smooth ground and rub the parts with a rough 
rag, a bunch of hay or a stick to stimulate circulation — the liniment made 
on the formula given under Sprains being a most useful adjunct to this end. 
Another superior local application is here given: 

Oil of spike, 2 ounces. 

Origanum, 2 " 

Aqua ammonia, 2 " 

Turpentine, 2 " 

Sweet oil, 2 " 

Alcohol, 2 " 
Mix. 

Apply every morning for three days, and on the fourth day wash 
thoroughly with Castile soap and water. On the fifth apply as before, 
continuing three days, then washing as on the fourth day. So continue 
until a cure is effected, rubbing well with the hand at each application. 

SHOULDER-LAMENESS. 

Many mistakes are made in locating lameness in the shoulders. Hence, 
the symptoms should be the more carefully named and observed. 

Symptoms. — The horse is unwilling to raise or advance the leg, and 
moves it by dragging it with the toe on the ground, turning it around 
when he does advance it; pain is caused by lifting and drawing the leg 



THE HORSE GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 711 

forward or outward, and by pressure on the affected muscles; sometimes a 
swelling at the point of the large bone near the breast, which is pained by 
pressing the fingers along the muscles. 

Treatment. — Frequently foment the part with warm water. When 
active inflammation ceases, rub in the camphorated ammoniacal liniment 
of which the formula is given under Sprains. 

DISLOCATIONS. 

These almost always need the services of a surgeon. They are gen- 
erally characterized by a protuberance over the displaced joint, which is 
caused by the end of the bone pressing against the skin which covers it. 
The use of the joint is, of course, lost while the displacement contiaues. 
The accompanying illustration of a dislocation of the whirl-bone, with the 
protuberance at the joint, will be a guide in detecting the disorder in other 
joints. We here give the special symptoms and treatment of a dislocation 
of the stifle-joint. 

Symptoms . — Should the stifle-bone be displaced, the leg protrudes 
backward during motion, with inability to draw it under the body ; the 
pastern trails along the ground ; swelling appears on the outside of the 
joint. In a sprain of the stifle-joint there will be the heat, swelling and 
tenderness incident to sprains, and in action the horse will carry his leg 
around instead of raising it naturally. 

Treatment. — We mention the treatment of this form of dislocation 
because it may be attempted by any intelligent person; but displacements 
in other joints should always be treated by a 
surgeon. A line should be passed around the 
pastern and an assistant draw the leg forward 
and upward toward the belly, while the oper- 
ator puts his arms around the haunches, places 
his hand on the outer angle of the stifle-bone, 
presses it forward and upward, and thus manip- 
ulates until the bone slips back to its place, 
as indicated by a snap. Keep the head tied 
up for a few days to keep the horse from I93 . ^S^Tcation "the Whirl- 
lying down, and apply a strong pitch-plaster 

to the joint to prevent a recurrence of the dislocation. The strained 
tendons will need to be treated as directed for Sprains. To keep 
the horse from lying down the requisite time slings may be necessary 
to relieve the limbs of a part of their weight, and a suitable one is shown 
in cut i6q. 




712 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

FRACTURES OF BOXES. 

Fractures are caused by various forms of violence. In some cases 
it may be difficult for one who is not conversant with such matters 
to detect their existence, but generally little trouble will be found 
in deciding the matter, especially in the legs. In nearly every case 
when a fracture is discovered or suspected, a veterinary surgeon should be 
called at once, though in bad fractures in the legs of horses which are of 
an excitable disposition, treatment is quite useless, and it is better to shoot 
the horse, as always in broken back. After the surgeon has operated on 
the fracture and left, swelling and inflammation may be so great, especially 
if splints have been used, that he must be recalled. Should ''proud flesh" 
form when laceration of the tissues has been caused, apply to it nitrate of 
silver or powdered sulphate of zinc. If the skull be broken, as may occur 
from the horse rearing and falling backward, immediate care should be 
taken to prevent poll evil; if fhe latter ensues, follow the treatment else- 
where laid down for it. If the ribs be fractured, and it is certain that a 
sharp end does not protrude inward, but the ends of the ribs are joined and 
protrude outward, pass around the body a compress and bandage, giving 
absolute rest and quiet. Some weeks are required for a cure of a fracture. 

OVER-EXERTION. 

Over-exertion gives rise to symptoms which call for treatment, prom- 
inent among which are loss of appetite; failure to lie down; sleep while 
the anima-1 stands; hanging head; pulse slow and weak, or quick and hard, 
the animal being much excited. 

Treatment. — If there be loss of appetite, and failure to lie down 
when the animal is verv tired, give nux vomica. If the horse moans at 
each movement, rhus will be useful. When the pulse is hard, quick, and 
attended with great excitement, give aconite. Arnica is efficacious if the 
legs be paralyzed; arsenicum, if they be stiff; rhus, if they be swollen. If 
the animal is distressed during fatigue, give easily digested food, not in too 
great quantities, as bran-mashes, sreamed carrots and turnips, sweet hay 
shaken up and sprinkled with water, oats (about two quarts) soaked and 
well mixed together. As a drink, give water, not cold, and boiled oatmeal. 



t^^^: 



. - ^ 












fcr ' 




- 
















CHAPTER XII. 
GENERAL CARE. 

AILMENTS OF DOMESTICATION. 

''HE horse seldom suffers from disease when he enjoys his natural 
freedom and untrammeled activity out of doors, but in domestica- 
tion he soon becomes liable to more or less of the many ailments 
£^p) incident thereto. The subject of health is a broad one as applied 
to any animal organism, too broad indeed for any detailed consideration 
that will at once be full enough for its demands, and yet brief enough to be 
read and heeded. As in the human being one seldom studies with pa- 
tience and precision the requirements of health until sickness has come on, 
so the master of a horse is too prone to pass the laws of hygiene of his 
faithful servant until disease has rendered him unfit for the duties required 
of him. As was remarked on a preceding page, it is scarcely less than 
cruelty for one to withhold a due study of the needs of the dumb and help- 
less brutes which are taken from their state of nature and compelled to do 
the drudgery and bear the burdens of mankind. It is too often the case 
that one pays only such heed to his animals as will enable him to draw from 
them the service he wishes, without being humane enough to make due 
provision for the comfort and convenience of the animals, which is his 
" reasonable service." It is the purpose here to make notes upon the ordi- 
nary particulars in the care of the horse, omitting the technical and scien- 
tific data which both deter one from reading what is essential, and are of 
little popular use. In so doing, we shall allude to some of the common 
causes of disease and discomfort and indicate the means of removing them. 

AIR AND VENTILATION. 

Though able to bear severe changes in the weather when running all the 
time in the open fields, the horse suffers greatly from the same influences after 
being comfortably stabled for any considerable length of time. While the cause 
of colds and like diseases is often traceable to atmospheric changes, a very 
frequent source of the same will be found in the anxiety to exclude the air 

713 



EXPLANATIONS OF FIGURE 



94. 



The figure on the opposite page exhibits a complete outline of a per- 
fect horse and indicates the measurements of the same. The whole is 
taken, by permission, from the Horse-Shoer a?id Hardivare Journal: 



SKELETON AND OTHER PARTS. 



I. 


Vertebrae of the Neck 


2. 


Breast- Bone. 


V 


Shoulder-Blade. 


4- 


Bone of the Arm. 


V 


Radius. 


6. 


Ulna. 


7- 


Elbow. 


8. 


Ribs. 


9- 

10. 
11. 


Carpal Bones. 
Metacarpal Bones. 
Great Pastern. 


12. 


Little Pastern. 



13- 
J 4- 

J .V 

16. 

17- 

18. 

r 9- 
20. 
21. 
22. 

23- 
24. 



Coffin Bone and Hoof. 

Vei tebrse of the Back. 

Ve • tcbrae of the Loins. 

Bason Bone. 

Thigh Bone. 

Patella. 

Tibia. 

Fibula. 

Bones in the Hock. 

Metatarsal Bones. 

Pastern Bones. 

The Coffin Bone and Hoof. 



FAMILIAR TERMS. 



a. Crest. 

b. Withers. 

c. Throat. 

d. Shoulder Points. 

e. Arm. 
/. Knee. 

g. Fetlock (fore). 
//. Pastern (fore). 
i. Foot. 
i i. Coronet. 



k. Body. 

/. Quarter. 

m. Dock. 

71. Sheath. 

0. Hock. 

p. Shank. 

q. Fetlock (hind). 

r. Pastern (hind). 

5. Foot 

t. Thigh. 



The Foot. 



1. Toes. 



2. Horn 



Sole. 



4. rrog. 



Heel. 



PROPORTIONS OF THE PERFECT HORSE. 



A A, line separating two rectangles which show the Depth of the Body as proportioned 

to the Length of the Legs. 
B and C, lines dividing off the fore and hind Quarters and the Body, and indicating 

their respective and comparative proportions. 



Length of Head, generally , 

Across Eyes 

Across Nose 

From Eye to Cheek Bone . . 

Neck across Gullet 

Middle of Neck 

Across Neck at Body , 

From Withers to Ground , 

From Crest of Loins to Ground 

From Elbow to Stifle. , 

From Elbow to Knee 

From Knee to Ground , , 

From Withers to Chest , 



Ft 



In. 

10 Across Arm 

9^ Across Knee 

7 Across Shank under Knee. . . 

Across Fetlock-Joint 

' Across Pastern 

Across Coronary Bone.. d 

Highest Part of'Hoof 

Length of Hoof from Toe to Heel, o 

From Rump to Tail 1 

From Hip to End of Quarters.... 1 

Across Hock o 

Across Shank beiow Hock o 

I Acro>s Fetlock , o 

714 



In. 
6 

- : : 

3% 

4 
3 

4 X 2 

5# 

1 

9 
6# 

5- : - 
4^ 




194- I'A PORTE'S STRUCTURE AND PROPORTIONS. 



15 



716 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

by closing doors, windows, and ventilators, thus keeping the animal in a 
temperature warmer than that to which he has been accustomed, and in an 
atmosphere made impure by noxious gases and a deficiency of oxygen. 
Such treatment will sooner give a horse a cold than an opposite one, for 
he may be turned out of a warm stable to grass with little or no injury, 
since the loss of heat by extreme cold will be repaired by internal combus- 
tion, the oxygen from the cold air acting on the carbon given off from the 
lungs, and thus producing carbonic acid, the chief source of animal heat. 
Cool air stimulates and invigorates the bod} T , rendering it less liable to dis- 
ease ; hot air is weakening, for the external temperature being so little be- 
low the internal, heat is not required, and a sufficient quantity of oxygen is 
not breathed to properly assimilate the large amount of nutritious food 
still given, which now tends to render the blood impure by excess of car- 
bon, and the body more liable to disease. Cool air increases the appetite 
by bracing the muscular fibers, especially those of the stomach. Hot air 
deranges the liver and organs of digestion. When the temperature is mod- 
erate and oxygen is in excess, the carbon is mainly carried off by the lungs; 
but if the external heat approaches that of the internal, the carbon, instead 
of being removed by the lungs and passed off as carbonic gas, is left to be 
borne off by the liver; and thus the liver and digestive organs become de- 
ranged. We therefore see how important it is to keep our stables cool, 
and at the same time to avoid cold currents of air. The most appropriate 
temperature is sixty degrees, and this we should endeavor to maintain dur- 
ing both summer and winter, even if the surface of the body must be kept 
warm by a moderate amount of clothing. 

Impure air is a much more fruitful source of disease than hot air; 
hence the importance of keeping the stable thoroughly clean. The air 
which has been breathed, the moisture from sweats, the urine and dung, 
are all very poisonous to the horse. The first two can be easily removed 
by ventilation. The dung should be frequently cleared away, before the 
horse has trodden it or the bedding is befouled. Diseased feet as well as 
poisonous air often result from rotted dung. The urine should be carefully 
taken away by drains before time is afforded for the rising of the odors of 
ammonia, which are very hurtful to the health of the animal. 

From what has been said above it is clear that a special regard should 
be had to ventilation. Pure air consists of eighty parts of oxygen and 
twenty parts of nitrogen. Any influence which considerably disturbs this 
proportion proves injurious to the health of the horse. Pure blood and 
good health depend upon a liberal supply of oxygen. If we open an artery 
and immediately examine the blood, we will find it to be a bright-scarlet 
color, coming just from the lungs where it has been in contact with air 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 717 

taken into these organs. The blood in the veins, on the other hand, is of a 
dark-red color, bearing the impurities taken from all parts of the system. 
By experiment it has been shown that pure oxygen gives this scarlet color 
to the blood, while no other gas does. Hence, it can only be that it is 
oxygen which purines the blood. Again, it is found that, if a horse takes 
in one hundred cubic inches of pure air at one breath, he takes about eighty 
cubic inches of oxygen and twenty of nitrogen, these being usually very 
slightly reduced by traces of carbonic gas. But the one hundred cubic inches 
of air thrown from the lungs contains about fifteen of oxygen, eighty of 
nitrogen, four of carbonic gas, and one of water-vapor. Thus the air by 
breathing loses what is best for life, and takes what is harmful. If the 
same air be breathed over time and again, it is clear that it must soon 
utterly fail to sustain life, being indeed very poisonous. 

When it is known that a horse will breathe about fifty thousand cubic 
inches of air in an hour, generating about five thousand cubic inches of car- 
bonic gas, some idea may be gained of the demand for provisions for 
changing the air often in an occupied stable. Many experiments have been 
made on horses stabled in large numbers, and it has been always shown 
that sickness and death are much less frequent when proper room and ven- 
tilation are afforded. Suitable ventilation consists, first, in the introduction 
of a sufficient quantity of pure air without draught; second, in the removal 
of foul air by other outlets than doors or windows. The first part leads to 
two important questions, namely, what is a sufficient quantity of air for each 
horse, and how is it to be supplied? Each horse requires a space of not less 
than two thousand cubic feet, and the air should be changed at least three 
times an hour. The windows and inlets for fresh air should be placed well 
above the animal, the former so arranged that the wind will not blow 
directly on him. 

x\s the space necessary for each horse is too large to be practicable for 
most private establishments, we must next consider how we may have 
healthy stables with less space. It is quite possible by attending to the fol- 
lowing rules of ventilation: First, breathed air being lighter than atmos- 
pheric, it ascends toward the roof, passes out if no obstruction is in its way, 
and is replaced by pure air admitted from doors, windows, and other inlets. 
Second, if carbonic or other gases be confined by ceiled roofs or otherwise, 
they become condensed and diffused, mingling with the pure atmosphere 
and rendering it injurious to health. These rules have no reference to cubic 
space, but simply require a free outlet above for the impure air, and free 
inlet through windows or other openings by which the vacuum can be 
instantly filled. The simplest way of carrying out these rules is to do 
away with ceilings and lofts overhead, and merely have the sides boarded 



718 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

within, which will make the stable neither too hot in summer nor too cold 
in winter; but where this cannot be done, air-chambers should be carried up 
from the stable roof, and be so guarded by revolving caps as to prevent any 
current of air from passing down into the horse's apartments. 

FOOD AND DRINK. 

Food. — Green Fodder. — Grass is the natural food for the horse. Of 
its many varieties some possess little nutriment and are of limited value as 
food; others are not adapted to the constitution, and lead to diseases often attrib- 
uted to other causes, if given as regular food. When the amount of nour- 
ishment is small, the animal must take a large bulk to support life, rendering 
the belly large, loading the flesh with fat and making it soft and flabby, a 
condition unfavorable to quick work. Young horses and those from which 
work is not required may be profitably put upon grass that has a mixture of 
clover. Putting horses designed for immediate service upon grass is seldom 
advisable, as it produces loss in the nervous system, and the limbs are injured 
by the extra strain required to get the animal again in condition for work. 

A great variety of opinions exists as to the relative amount of nourish- 
ment in the different green foods, as clover, timothy, blue grass, lucerne, 
green oats, and the like. At first these should be given in small quantities, 
mixed with half the usual allowance of hay; but after the first week or 
ten days the hay may be discontinued and the quantity of oats be increased, 
but not wholly withheld from horses designed for quick work. Clover is 
the most fattening, but it is apt to produce colic when given too. plentifully 
at first. 

Roots. — Of roots given to horses the most common are potatoes, 
turnips, carrots and parsnips. The first two should be boiled and mixed 
with hay and bran; they are good only for farm-horses, and of indifferent 
value for them, being merely productive of fat and lacking flesh-forming 
principles. Carrots given raw are supposed to be good for the wind, but, 
excepting in very small quantities, are unfit for horses doing quick work. 
The remarks about carrots apply equally to parsnips; they are generally 
chopped and mixed with corn, and when given for a time make the horse 
inclined to refuse oats, unless the latter be added to the parsnips. A 
horse in good condition is not benefited by them, but if he be hide-bound, 
or his skin be unhealthy, they are profitable. They should be given whole, 
to prevent choking. Beets are considered good feeding in late spring. 
All roots should be mixed with other food to secure their best results. 

Hay. — Hay may be composed of clover, mixed clover and timothy, blue 
grass, or prairie or upland grass. For heavy work and when weight and 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 719 

bulk are desired, pure timothy, or timothy mixed with clover, is the best; 
but for road-horses, driving, racing, or any quick work, blue grass or upland 
prairie should be used. Hay should be well cured, and if possible be put 
up and dried without wetting. It should not be allowed to get over-ripe, as 
in that case the seed will be lost and the stalk lose much of its nourishing 
properties. Good hay has a bright-green appearance and sweet odor, and 
is pleasant to the taste. As a rule, clover is better adapted to cattle and 
sheep than to horses. The quantity of hay necessary for a horse depends 
upon his size, constitution, kind of work, and the amount of other food 
given. Eight pounds of hay and twelve of oats form a good allowance for 
a fairly-worked horse. Clover, hay and straw, cut into chaff, a double- 
handful being added to each feed, will be very beneficial. 

Straw. — Straw is now often substituted for hay, and by attention to the 
following directions will be found quite as good. The nutritive property in 
either hay or straw consists in the amount of its nitrogenous principle. 
Now, taking the whole of the straw, not including the head, we find by 
chemical investigation that it contains one-third as much nitrogenous prin- 
ciple as hay ; consequently we should give about thirty pounds of straw 
daily as an equivalent for ten pounds of hay. The upper third, that is, the 
end with the chaff, is found to be almost as suitable for forming flesh as the 
best meadow hay, and seven pounds of this will answer for six pounds of hay, 
and keep the horse in equally good condition for work. 

In this connection may be given the results of experiments made on 
sixty thousand horses by a special commission appointed in France. 
This successfully overthrows the erroneous opinions entertained regarding 
the value of straw. It was shown that straw is better for the constitution 
and working condition of horses than hay, although it does not produce in 
them an equal bulk when given whole in the same proportion as hay. 

During a period of five weeks two sets of horses, each numbering 
about seven thousand, were experimented upon. To one class were 
given eighteen pounds of straw and nine and one-fifth pounds of oats; 
to the other class, eighteen pounds of hay and nine and one-fifth pounds of 
oats, the combined weights being the same for each class, the only differ- 
ence being an interchange of hay and straw. The horses fed on straw 
were vigorous at their work, and did not sweat much. Of those fed on 
hay the weight of the body increased, the dung was copious but hard, dry, 
and black ; they were covered with sweat when at work, and were much 
softer than usual, a fact which is perhaps accounted for by the quantity of 
hay being larger than was usually given. In the stable the skin was 
warm and dry, the horse yawned often, respiration was impeded, and thirst 
was gfreater than in those fed on oats and straw. There was no change in 



720 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the size of the body of those fed on straw, but those fed on hay increased 
in bulk. The results of other experiments may be thus summed up: Oats 
and straw are the foods which agree best with the horse, and hay that 
which agrees least. Barley comes after oats and straw, then rye. A 
mixture of straw with one of these grains would be the best combination. 
Horses fed exclusively on oats drink and sweat less than those fed on hay 
or straw, and their vigor is superior. Oats and straw, even in less quanti- 
ties than hay, would put the horse in better condition and make him more 
vigorous. 

There is a strong objection to new hay, but it has no sufficient grounds. 
The French commission named above investigated this subject and the 
result was that the horses fed on the usual allowance of new hay for two 
months were found as hard and vigorous as when fed on old hay. But to 
make certain whether new hay had an injurious effect, the daily allowance 
was increased one-half, and in all cases, though for fifteen days the horses 
were a little soft, they regained their whole energy and became hardier 
and in better condition. New hay therefore is not detrimental but highly 
beneficial, if well cured. 

Oats. — In feeding oats care should be taken that they be full and 
hard, with thin husks, free from dust and pebbles, sweet to the taste, 
and agreeable to the smell. One is liable to give his horse too short an 
allowance when feeding oats, if he is not observant of the weight, per 
bushel by measure, since they vary a great deal. It is found that a horse 
will consume a given bulk in oats, and hence the heavier the grain the 
more nourishment will the horse get, and it should be determined that he 
is getting an adequate amount for the service required. The opinion that 
new oats are indigestible and injurious to the kidneys and bowels seems to 
lack a full support. That they are not good for horses put to speed is 
probably true, but they are not unwholesome for other classes, as has been 
shown by horses in the British and French military, where they have been 
found equal in fattening properties to the old grain, and do not make the 
animal sick. Oats dried in a kiln, especially if they are soft, are nearly or 
quite as good as the old. Crushed oats are more readily digested and are 
hence more desirable for animals with defective digestion; but if three 
parts of these are mixed with one of beans, the result will be improved. 
Oats that are musty or have been heated are very injurious, more often 
causing disorders than those that are dirty; but injuries attributed to them 
are quite often due to mow-heated or musty hay. 

Beans and Peas. — These have about the same nutriment and the same 
effect on the animal; but they have about twice as much of flesh-forming 
principle as oats. In large quantities they are too heavy for food and apt 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 721 

to derange digestion. A handful, however, mixed with a feed of oats, is 
very beneficial, though this remark applies only to horses doing hard 
work. Beans are cheaper and more easily digested, and hence are prefer- 
able. A given measure of either is much more than equal to the same 
measure of oats. 

Barley. — Barley is fattening, and improves the coating. It is not so 
digestible as oats, unless it be well soaked in water or, still better, kiln- 
dried. For horses on the road barley so prepared is superior. If it has 
been water-soaked until it has sprouted and then dried, it is good for horses 
that are delicate and refuse other food. 

Indian Corn. — It is best to crack this, or give it in meal, and mix it 
with chopped hay and straw. While it is good for horses doing slow work ? 
it is not good for those requiring quick action. If the meal be mixed with 
twice its weight of cut hay, it makes perhaps the best article for ordinary 
feeding; but it is better to combine or alternate this with some mixture of oats. 

Bran. — Bran is good both for healthy and sick horses. It should not 
be given if fine, as it forms too much of a paste and closes the passages in 
the membrane. Coarse bran, with hot water poured upon it and covered 
awhile before using, is very good, especially when the horse is temporarily 
relieved from labor. Improved milling has, however, so reduced bran that 
the nutriment is very small, and care should be taken that the animal be not 
compelled to depend too largely upon it. Dry bran mixed with corn will 
often improve the mastication. 

Quantity and Quality of Food. — Though these differ much according 
to the work, age and constitution of the horse, it may be remarked in 
general that the growing colt or very active horse requires more food than 
others; that more is necessary in cold weather than in warm; that horses 
doing fast work require substantial food in condensed form at regular inter- 
vals, given two hours before fast service is required; that those doing fast and 
laborious work should have as much as they will eat with a good appetite, 
the hay being limited; that those doing slow and .not laborious work, as well 
as idle ones, should have less grain and more hay or straw, bran and green 
food being given at times; that those which purge on rapid work should 
not have much water until after the work, and should be fed not less than 
two hours before work, a small quantity of beans being added to each feed 
of oats, and an ounce and a half of flour in the form of paste being added 
to the water when given before work ; and, finally, that horses in ill-health 
should have soft or cooked food and, when possible, some that is green. 

Toung horses just put up from grass should have walking exercise. 
If a mixture of bran and oats in equal parts be fed, it should be well soaked 
in warm water to insure perfect digestion. The following is, perhaps, the 
46 



722 



COMPENDIUM 3F HEALTH. 



best plan: First week, bran-mashes morning and evening, with oats at noon; 
second and third week, oats morning and noon, with bran-mashes at night; 
thereafter, bran-mashes every second night, with oats at other times. 

Comparative Values of Foods. — Animals doing quick work expend 
much muscular fiber, and hence require food containing Jibrine to restore 
the loss. Corn and beans furnish this; but hay contains some salt-properties 
not in corn, so that it should be added. The brain, too, requires fatty matter, 
albumen, and gelatinous elements, and carbon is requisite for animal heat. 
The value of foods for the blood depends upon the amount they contain of 
the component parts of the blood, as chlorides (including common salt), 
phosphates and alkalies. While, as before stated, fibrine and albumen are 
highly nutritive for horses doing fast or laborious work, food containing 
sugar and starch are especially adapted to the production of fat, and also of 
carbon, the generator of heat. The woody part of food is not nutritive, 
but supplies the necessary bulk, and gives the moderate distension of the 
stomach required for proper digestion. Keeping in mind the foregoing 
remarks, one may with tolerable accuracy determine the relative values of 
foods for different conditions by an examination of the subjoined table of 
" Stonehenge," which exhibits the proportion of the different constituents 
in 100 parts of the various foods named: 



Hay 

Clover Hay. 
Oat Straw. . 

Oats 

Beans 

Peas 

Barley 

Indian Corn. 

Bran 

Carrots 



Woody 

Fiber." 



30 
25 

50 

I 4 . 

9 
14 

6 

54 
3 



Starch Fibrine 

and and 

Sugar. Albumen. 



40 
40 

3i 
53 
40 

43 
52 
62 
2 
10 



11. 4 

26 

24 

13-5 

12 

20 



Fattv 


Saline 


Water. 


Matter. 


Matter. 




2 


7 


n 


3 


9 


H 


a trace 


5 ■ ; 


12.5 


.6 


2-5 


12.5 


2.5 


3 


H 


2 


3 


*4 


2-5 


3 


15 


5 


1 


14 


4 


/ 


*3 





i-5 


84 



The upper third, with the head, has about 7. 



General Remarks o?i Feeding. — The frequency of feeding should be 
varied according to the length of time the horse works. The feeds should 
be at regular intervals. Harnessing is a matter of such short time that the 
horse should be unharnessed while feeding and receive grooming when 
stabled for feed. Extra quantities of food should not be given in anticipa- 
tion of special work, as it will be attended with a waste in undigested food, 
or derange the appetite. Brood-mares and colts should be allowed good 
pasturage, which may also be accorded with profit to other horses not in con- 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 723 

stant use, horses engaged in frequent racing always excepted during their 
engagements. Where great fleetness is required, grain should be given, 
with enough chopped straw or chaff to insure perfect mastication. Grains of 
all kinds are best crushed, and when mixed with chaff should be so thoroughly 
mingled that they cannot be picked out and the chaff left. Twelve pounds 
of oats per day, divided into three feeds, make an average allowance for a 
horse in regular work during winter when green food is wanting. An 
equivalent for this may be easily chosen from the above table of " Stone- 
henge." Damaged food of any kind should be avoided, the feeding of it 
being mistaken and foolish economy. The most successful breeders persist 
in feeding a little hay at night in the rack, despite the prejudice against this 
method. It is better to slightly moisten the hay with salt-water, to prevent 
dust and impart a relish. The hay should be of the best quality, and be 
given in small quantities, for the practice of putting large amounts in a rack 
proves very wasteful. 

Drink. — By noting the amount of moisture thrown out by the lungs, 
mouth and skin, one gains an idea of the absolute necessity of caring for 
proper drinking to keep up the normal condition of the body. But usual 
care should be exercised that the amount may not be so great as to keep 
the animal weakened. The quantity which a horse will consume varies 
greatly — from about four gallons per day to four or five times this amount; in 
special instances even the last amount has been surpassed very much. The 
horse should be watered, as a rule, three times a day; in cold weather, and 
in absence of work, twice is sometimes sufficient, while in hot weather, 
during work, three times are not enough. In the latter case a small allow- 
ance may be given just before the feed and as much, if it is taken, before 
the meal is finished. In other cases, water should usually not be given 
within an hour before feeding, nor when the animal is warm. The horse 
at work should not be allowed an unlimited supply, but a small amount 
should be given at each time, and at frequent intervals. Though hard 
water may not injure the horse that is accustomed to it, soft, clean water 
is always decidedly better. Very cold water is never good, and often in- 
jures, if it does not kill the horse. Pure, cool water is the best. 

GROOMING, BATHING, EXERCISE AND CLIPPING. 

Grooming. — Grooming is positively essential for both the appearance 
and the health of the horse. The watery portions of the body and worn- 
out material pass out through the pores of the skin, and if these be clogged 
by scurf, this refuse material must pass away through the lungs, liver, kid- 
neys and bowels, causing derangement of these parts. Not only are the 



724 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

pores kept open by grooming, but the vessels and pores as well are stimu- 
lated to increased action, and thus the oil at the roots of the hair passes 
through the skin, giving a fine glossy appearance to the animal. The 
horse should be groomed in the open air, unless the weather is bad. Even 
the apparent injury from cold air is more than balanced by the 
increased warmth secured by the friction. The curry-comb should be 
used sparingly, and a stiff, hard brush be briskly applied. Rubbing the 
legs downward with the hand is very beneficial. Horses that are not 
housed and those which are turned out just after work should merely have 
the mud, dust, dried sweat and the like removed when they are turned out 
or taken up, the skin to be left undisturbed. The use of a soft brush, or 
of a dry cloth passed lightly over the hair, will generally suffice. 

Washing after Work. — If properly done, this is to be highly 
recommended. We all know from experience how refreshed we feel after 
a warm bath, and it is but reasonable to suppose that it will have a like 
effect upon the horse, and render him less liable to inflammation and con- 
gestion of any internal organ, as well as give him the quiet which he 
needs. The proper mode of washing is to apply quite warm water and 
soap quickly and freely to the whole surface and scrape it as dry as pos- 
sible, then rub with wash-leathers for ten minutes, not longer. The usual 
clothing should then be put on and be covered with an extra blanket, the 
legs being bandaged with flannels. The animal should now have some 
grain-gruel and afterward some bran-mashes. After two hours in this con- 
dition the body becomes warm, and the outside blanket, which will be wet, 
should be removed and the horse be well bedded. 

Dry bandages should be used for drying the legs or warming them. 
Wet, warm bandages tone up the vessels and relieve them by removing 
heat. Wet, cold bandages produce sweating and carry off some of the 
contents of the vessels; but if the cold bandage be not kept cool in some 
way, it will soon act as if it were originally warm. Wet bandages are de- 
sirable in cases of sprains, blows, and long exertion on hard roads, but 
should not be continued longer than is actually necessary, or they may have 
an effect the opposite of the one desired, which is to excite evaporation 
and to remove deposits from the interstices of the flesh. If applied too 
long, they inflame the skin, and cause the hair to fall. 

Clothing. — Horses doing slow work and having their natural coat 
are better without any clothing. But clothing is far preferable to a hot 
stable, and as a glossy coat is very desirable, the horse should be warmly 
clothed, and the stable be kept cool and well ventilated. 

Exercise. — This is absolutely necessary to promote digestion and 
otherwise preserve health. Quick work is injurious directly after feeding, 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 725 

or when the horse has just been taken from pasture. Young horses should 
be given walking exercise two hours daily for the first month of training; 
during the second, be slowly trotted, the speed being but gradually in- 
creased thereafter. One of the most prolific causes of disorders in the feet 
and breathing organs is the lack of regular exercise properly given. 
Horses in steady and easy work are presumed to receive the best exercise. 
If only occasional extreme work is required, there is all the more demand 
for systematic training or exercise, as it hardens the muscles, and fits the 
horse for the severe strain put upon him. 

The horse should not be taken out immediately after feeding, nor 
should he be put beyond a moderate foot-pace for at least a half-hour there- 
after. Then he may be quickened according to the demands upon him. 
Heating in exercise should be avoided, but if it be induced, the animal 
should be walked before returning to the stable, until he is cool. 

Feeding should always precede the exercise by at least a half-hour. 
The horse may then be taken out for an hour and a half in the forenoon 
and afternoon each, the hours to be chosen, according to the season, when 
it will not be excessively warm or cold. One of the commonest mistakes 
in the care of horses is blanketing immediately after the animal has entered 
the stable after hard driving or working. At such times vapor will rapidly 
rise for a few minutes and wet the blanket. As soon as it becomes cold 
the horse will be covered with a cold, wet coat, with no chance for an es- 
cape of the moisture, and thus almost surely be subjected to a chill. The 
proper course is to allow the steaming horse to stand for about ten minutes 
before putting on the blanket, thus giving an opportunity for a great part 
of the vapor to pass off. 

Clipping. — This is both an injury to the horse and a folly of fashion. 
It is purely artificial and utterly unnecessary. Still more, it does not se- 
cure greater beauty, a better looking animal being secured by a reasonable 
care of the coat which nature has given. Indeed, a well-groomed coat 
produces a gloss for an unshorn horse that is superior to any artificial ap- 
pearance, while the exposure incident to clipping is apt to create disorders 
of the hair and skin that will make a revival of the natural beauty impossible. 
This practice should be studiously avoided, because it attains no advantage, 
and is highly injurious, if not cruel, especially in extreme weather. 

THE STABLE. 

It has been said that about 6o° is the proper temperature of the stable 
as a rule. In summer, however, the stable should be kept as cool as pos- 
sible, especially during the day. It is a mistaken idea that the temperature 



726 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

should be kept on a level with the outdoor air. Indeed, in keen, frosty 
weather the temperature within should be much above that outside. It is 
not only not advantageous to expose a horse to cold when he is inactive in 
a stable, with a view to inuring him to severity when he is taken out, but it 
is very injurious. The exercise when out of doors will compensate for a 
great change in temperature. But more caution is necessary, on the whole, 
to prevent too high a temperature in the stable, since it will greatly increase 
the poisonous gases arising from the excrements and other refuse of the 
stable, which are more injurious to health than a much lower temperature. 
Bedding. — This should have constant attention, and be kept 
thoroughly clean. Many of the coughs in horses which are closelv stabled 
are undoubtedly traceable to a neglect of this important part of their care. 
Even among a few horses the foul matter in any part of the stable, and 
the notoriously poisonous exhalations of the same v prove highly deleterious. 
In cold weather, when the closeness of the stable prevents a free circula- 
tion of the air, special care should be taken. It is not enough that the ma- 
nure and wet litter be removed from the stall; thev should be carried entirely 
out of the stable, the stall itself being kept as drv as pos-ible. When 
standing in the stable the horse should always have a liberal supply of 
bedding, of which the best are wheat and oatstraw, though peastraw 
is good. Sawdust is reasonably good, but when it is wet it is more liable 
than straw to impart dampness to the stall. The floor should be swept 
before the bedding is put down for the night; then the litter should be 
carefully arranged, being higher at the sides than in the middle. 

CARE OF THE FEET. 

The feet are liable to so many mishaps and disorders that they need 
scrupulous care. They should be examined frequently — the careful man 
will do this daily — to see if any untoward condition exists The shoes 
should receive special attention to detect any misfit, looseness, irregular 
pressure, and the like, and to discover any injuries to the feet and joints 
from the rims or nails on other feet. They should be drawn and re-set or 
replaced with new ones at intervals of from four to six weeks. When the 
horse is turned out, thev should be taken entirelv away, or should \ 
place to the grazing-shoe. 

Heels with little hair should be sponged and carefully dried after a 
journey, and those with long or thick hair should be cleansed from dirt by 
hand-rubbing or otherwise. Horses that stand much in the stable should 
have a dirt floor, and in dry weather their feet may be washed occasion- 
allv, but such washing should be done quickly, particularly if the horse 



THE HORSE GENERAL CARE. 7i7 

has first been in active exercise, and the feet should be thoroughly dried. 
Excessive washing and soaking is very injurious. To be sure, it is im- 
portant that the feet and legs be kept clean, but this can be so well done 
by thorough brushing and rubbing that frequent washing is unnecessary. 
Shoeing. — Few things in the care of the horse are so intimately as- 
sociated with his comfort and suffering as shoeing. Disorders arising from 
it are numerous and often impair or destroy his usefulness, as will be shown 
by a reference to the ailments treated in the preceding pages, particularly 
those of the extremities. For two reasons no detailed directions will be 
here given upon this important subject: First, the writer has noticed that 
such attempts in works similar to this have signally failed in imparting an 




Section of the Foot (see cut 173 ), 



96. The Foot dissected to exhibit Tendons, Blood- 
Vessels, and other Sensitive Parts. This, with cut 
195, shows that the Foot is very susceptible to In- 
juries. 



intelligible idea of even what is needed, this doubtless being due to the 
fact that shoeing is a matter of practice, not to be learned in the first in- 
stance from books; second, even if it were possible to present an adequate 
treatise for the general reader, he would still be dependent upon the smith. 
If such smiths were to pay for the horses which they ruin by improper 
shoeing, it is doubtful whether they would have any profits whatever from 
this department of their handiwork. It is, however, urged that one do 
not intrust a service of such great moment to an inexperienced man, but that 
he repair to one of known intelligence and skill, even if that involves the 



728 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



taking of his horse a long distance. If one's horse suffers from some acute 
disease, he will go almost any distance to secure competent counsel, but 
with strange inconsistence, or thoughtlessness, he will lead him into the 
shed of any blacksmith who can boast of enough muscle to "hold up any 
horse," notwithstanding the risk he runs of having the animal permanently 
injured, or wholly unfitted for use. The foot is a very sensitive member, 
copiously supplied with delicate layers, blood-vessels and exquisitely fitting 
bones and tendons, and he is a wise master who most jealously regards 
this part of his horse's organism. The accompanying cuts will serve to 
show how complicated and sensitive the foot is, and the writer hopes they 
will serve to make the reader particularly careful in the choice of a man 
who shall pare, hammer and nail it. 





ZF-A.IR/T III. 



THE OX AND HIS DISEASES. 



i^^^^^^^B^rt 


- : 


'UwU*W¥ttWi-r- W^uvwMVwWiimrtW^WmH'i^^ 


^NJf^'^fo;, ---r^^^Wm 




19/. The Bones of the Ox. 

I, Upper Jaw-Bone. 2, Nasal Bone. 3, Lachrymal Bone. 4, Cheek-Bone. 5, Forehead. 6, Horns. 
7, Temporal. 8, Parietal. 9, Occipital, io, Lower Jaw-Bone. 11, Grinders. 12, Nippers. 13. Ligament of the 
Neck. 14, Joints of the Back. 15, Atlas. 16, Dentata. 17, Eye -Socket. iS, Vertebrae of the Neck. 19, 
Vertebrae of the Back. 20, Vertebrae of the Loins. 21, Sacrum. 22, Bones of the Tail. 23, Haunch and 
Pelvis. 24, Eight True Ribs. 25, False Ribs. 26, Breast-Bone. 27, Shoulder-Blade. 28, Humerus. 
29, Radius. 40, Ulna. 41, Bones of the Knee. 42, Shank. 43, Splint. 44, Sesamoid. 45, Large Pasterns'. 
46, Small Pasterns. 47, Coffin. 4S, Navicular. 49, Thigh. 50, Knee -Pan. 51, Tibia. 52, Point of Hock. 
53, Small Bones of the Hock. 54, Metatarsal. 55, Pasterns and Feet. 




19S. Sketch of the Ox. 

1, Muzzle. 2, Nostrils. 3, Forehead and Face. 4, Eye. 5, Horn and Ear. 6, Neck and Throat. 
7, Breast. 8, Brisket 9, Shoulder-Point. 10, Shoulder. 11, Fore-Arm. 12, Crops. 
Fore-Flank. 15, Back. 16, Back-Ribs. 17, Belly. iS, Loins. 19, Flank. 20, Hap. 
and Seton. 23, Quarters. 24, Thigh. 25, Twist (between the Thighs). 26, Testes, 
brel. 28, Leg. 29, Hoof. 



13, Fore-Ribs. % 
21, Rump. 22, Tall 
27, Knee and Gam- 



30 



PART III. 



THE OX AND HIS DISEASES.* 




CHAPTER I. 

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 

MAD STAGGERS AND BRAIN FEVER. 

AD staggers and brain fever are quite frequent among cattle, and 
come on rapidly from exposure to a hot sun or sudden change of 
temperature; or may follow ill-usage, high feeding, excess of 
'"^4^?^ blood, over-driving, or a blow on the head. 

Symptoms. — Mad Staggers are marked by heaving flanks; wild, red, 
staring eyes; nostrils enlarged; furious delirium and frenzy; (the animal is 
unconscious, while in rabies it is not so — a distinction that should be care- 
fully noted); animal exhausted, and finally motionless. In Brain Fever, 
the general symptoms of mad staggers are present, and in addition a marked 
aversion to red bodies during the frenzy; frightful bellowing; incessant and 
furious galloping; arched tail; the skin adheres closely to the flesh; spine and 
adjacent parts very tender; the animal falls headlong, and lies in a stupor; 
from the first, vivid redness and prominence of the eyes; dullness and 
drowsiness; thick, heavy, difficult breathing. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for fever; delirium; red eyes; dry, hot 
skin. For great heat and swelling of the head, blood-shot eyes, delirium 
and frenzy, thirst, sensitiveness to light and noise, wild expression, give 
belladonna, which is also usually serviceable in the beginning, in alternation 
with aconite at intervals of from one to three hours according to the 
severity. For stupor, sudden starts, and involuntary passages of dung, give 
hyoscyamus. Bryonia is needed for stupor with delirium. Opium is demanded 

* See " Signs of Health and Disease," Chapter I, Part II. 

731 



732 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

by stupor with giddiness, half-closed, glassy eyes, constipation, and slow, 
feeble pulse. Give arnica externally and internally once in an hour, or 
oftener in extreme cases, if the cause is some external injury. 

Gelseminum, a wine-glassful of a mixture of twenty drops of tincture 
in a pint of water, given every two hours, is valuable in cases resulting from 
exposure to the sun, with weakness of the muscles and enlarged pupils 
of the eyes. 

For further information, consult this disorder in the Horse. Keep the 
animal perfectly quiet. When the violence of the symptoms subsides, give 
soft food that is easily digested and readily taken. 

APOPLEXY. 

Apoplexy has causes similar to those of Brain Fever, but is much more 
rapid in its attack. For symptoms, treatment, and general care, consult the 
article on Brain Fever above, and on Apoplexy in the Horse. 

PARALYSIS. 

This is a loss of nervous power in the muscles, and may affect one 
muscle or many. It occurs mainly in old cattle in bleak countries, cold, un- 
healthy stables, or those exposed to cold after warm stabling. 

Sy?nptoms. — Legs, generally the hind ones, cold and weak, then stiff, 
dragging and resting on the pasterns; then the animal becomes unable to 
stand and sits on its haunches. 

Treatment. — Keep the animal warm and well supplied with litter; 
change to nourishing food; turn the animal over two or three times a day. 
For further information, consult Paralysis in the Horse. 

HYDROPHOBIA. 

Hvdrophobia occurs more frequently in the cow than in the horse, 
and results from the bite of a rabid animal. 

Symptoms, — Loud and frequent hollow bellowing; stamping and but- 
ting; sometimes return of the food into the mouth about the third day; the 
secretion of milk diminishes; foaming at the mouth; paralysis; death in from 
four to seven days; consciousness throughout. 

Treatment. — Wash the wound w r ell with warm water and some dis- 
infectant; then burn it with an iron, or apply strong nitric acid. Dress then 
with a strong carbolic acid lotion, or lime-water and oil. Belladonna and 
stramonium may afterward be used. When the case is fully developed 
medicine will s^enernllv be of little avail. 



THE OX THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 733 

Tie the animal securely in a close stall, shutting out most of the light 
and much of the air. Give light, nutritious, condensed food. When a 
rabid animal has been in a herd, belladonna should be given daily for ten 
or twelve days to each animal as a protection against possible infection. 
For further information, see the article on Hydrophobia in the Horse. 

LOCK-JAW. 

This may result from some general disorder of the stomach, or from 
injuries (see Lock-jaw in the Horse for detailed causes, noting those to 
which cattle are subject). 

Symptoms. — At first, only some stiffness in the gait, jaws and neck, which 
afterward grows more marked; fixed, inflamed eyes; hind legs stiff; walk- 
ing difficult and awkward; quick and labored breathing, the breath being 
hot; neck and ears very stiff; finally, the whole body is stiff; copious sweats; 
the general spasm may increase every twelve or twenty-four hours for some 
time, and then slowly abate, become less regular, and finally disappear; or 
may grow more violent until a very severe one results in death. 

Treatment. — For cases occasioned by cold or wet, or depressed gen- 
eral condition, give ten drops of camphor every twenty minutes in the first 
stages until warmth returns to the system. Belladonna is invaluable after 
camphor, given every hour until the jaws become less rigid, when the 
interval between doses should be increased. If constipation be present, 
give nux vomica every four or six hours, or in alternation with belladonna. 
Constipation is further relieved by injections of warm water and soap. If 
inflammation occurs, give a few doses of aconite, following with the 
remedy next demanded by the symptoms mentioned above. If injuries be 
the cause, give arnica, alone or in alternation with belladonna, aconite or 
nux vomica, every one, two, three or four hours, according to urgency. 
Between the paroxysms, the jaws being relaxed, offer food that is easily 
digested, such as gruel, boiled turnips and oats, mashes of boiled grain and 
bran. Should the animal be unable to eat for some time, clear out the 
bowels by an injection of tepid water, and inject oatmeal-gruel. For 
further equally important information, select such as is obviously applicable 
to the ox from that given on Lock-jaw in the Horse. 

CONVULSIONS.— FITS. 

This disorder, not common in the ox, may occur in young, well-fed 
cattle, especially when excited by over-exertion or heat. When it has 
once occurred, a recurrence is more liable to ensue. 



734 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna every two or three hours. Opium 
may be serviceable if there be stupor and hard, heavy breathing. Keep 
the animal in a large stable where there is little chance for it to injure itself. 
For full directions, consult all that is said on Convulsions in the Horse. 

GIDDINESS.— DIZZINESS. 

This occurs more frequently in draught-oxen, and is caused by hard 
labor in a hot sun, or a tight, ill-fitting or squeezing yoke. 

Symptoms. — Tottering and falling, the animal lying outstretched 
and motionless. It may be easily distinguished from Convulsions, for in 
the latter there are violent convulsive movements. For full particulars, 
consult the appropriate article on the Horse as given in Part II. 




CHAPTER II. 



THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 



ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY. 



(fHE stomach of the ox, sheep and other ruminants is so peculiar as 
to call for special mention. It consists of four so-called stomachs. 
The first, known as the rumen, or paunch, is much the largest; its 
a^pJ mucous membrane is rough, with elevations or papillae, and is pro- 
tected by a dense, scaly membrane. The second stomach, called the retic- 
ulum, or honey-comb, is the smallest of the four, and is connected with the 





153- 



Stomach of the Ox. 

C, Lower end of the Oesophagus. D, Reticulum. 



A, Rumen (left half). B, Rumen (right half) 
E, Omasum. F, Abomasum. 

front part of the paunch, with which it freely communicates. The third 
stomach is named the omasum, or maniplies, the latter term being derived 
from the many folds of the membranes; its numerous membranes are of 

735 



736 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



different sizes, and their surfaces are copiously supplied with papilla; 
its contents are dry. The fourth stcmach, called the abomasu?n, or rennet, 
perforins substantially the same functions as that of man, is larger than the 
second and third but smaller than the first, is covered with a thick, velvety 
coat that has ridges similar to those of the omasum, and secretes an acid 
that is necessary to digestion. 

The first three stomachs are involved in the process of rumination. 
Crushed food passes first into the rumen, or paunch, and is there heated in 
saliva, mucus and other secretions, its toughness determining the time it is 
to be so retained. The food next enters the reticulum, where the softening 
and dissolving are continued, 
being aided by a slow churning 
movement. Fluids that are 
swallowed pass directly into 
this organ without going to 




154. Stomach of the Ox, exposing- parts 
of the interior. 

a, OZsophagus. b. Rumen. c, Re- 
ticulum, d. Omasum. e, Abomasum. 
f, Duodenum. 



55. Section of the Stomach of the Ox. 



A, Left Sac of the Rumen. B. Front extremity of the same 
turned back on the Right Sac, its rear extremity being- C. 
G, Section of the front Pillar of the Rumen, gg; Its" two upper 
branches. H, Rear Pillar of the same, hhfi. Its three lower 
branches. I, Cells of the Reticulum. J, Furrow of the 
CEsophag-us. K, OZsophagus. L, Abomasum. 



the paunch. In this stomach secretions ferment the food or produce other 
chemical changes, reducing the contents to a pulpy mass. In the next 
place the food passes back to the teeth and is thoroughly masticated, this 
process being known as rumination, or ;t chewing the cud." The return 
of the food is easily detected, for one may see large masses pass up the 
gullet which is distended as in swallowing, though the movement is in the 
opposite direction. When the food passes into the mouth its liquid parts 
are immediately swallowed into the first three stomachs ; and the solid food 



THE OX — THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 



'37 



is slowly ground by the teeth a longer or shorter time according to its 
toughness. When sufficiently ground the food is again swallowed, some 
into the first two stomachs, but the greater part into the third, thence into 
the fourth where the digestion is completed. Because of the tendency ot 
liquids to pass directly into the second or third stomach there is some dan- 
ger that in administering medicine by drenches or other mechanical means 
the desired results may be defeated, and even damage be incurred. Hence, 
in giving medicine to the ox or sheep it is always best when possible to 
induce the animal to swallow it voluntarily. 

HOOVE.— GRAIN OR CLOVER SICKNESS. 

This is a distension of the stomach caused by decomposition or fer- 
mentation of food, or by eating unusual articles of food. Rich grazing 
after poor or scanty food, wet grass in warm weather, fodder heated by 
being heaped up when wet, drinking cold water excessively, eating too 
much grain, bran, chaff, raw potatoes and oats, or boiled turnips, may 
cause the disorder. 

Symptoms.— These appear soon and suddenly; loss of appetite and 
cud; whole body swollen, especially at the flanks, which give forth a drum- 
like sound when struck; sour and noisy belchings; moans and distress; 
animal stands still; short, difficult breathing; nostrils spread; threatened 
suffocation; the pulse grows harder, fuller and quicker; mouth hot and full 
of frothy slobber; eyes glazed, fixed, and blood-shot; the tongue hangs; 
veins of the neck and chest swollen; back arched; legs drawn under the 
body; tail curved; protruding anus; cold sweat; the animal finally totters, 
falls, struggles, discharges sour fluid and solid food from the nose and mouth; 
suffocation or rupture of the stomach, leading to death. 

The distension of the stomach by gas may be distinguished from that 
arising from impacted food by a study of the table here used, which is 
taken from the excellent work of Lord and Rush. 



DISTENSION FROM GAS. 

The left flank, on pressure, feels soft, 
elastic, and yielding to the fingers. On 
percussion, sounds hollow and drum-like. 

Frequent belching; the wind which es- 
capes has an offensive smell. 

Respiration quick, short and puffing. 

Position: Standing; head stretched for- 
ward ; unable to move ; moans, and appears 
in great distress ; eyes red and staring. 



DISTENSION FROM IMPACTED FOOD. 

The left flank, on pressure, feels solid; 
does not yield readily to the fingers on per- 
cussion ; on being struck, sounds dull. 

No belching or eructation of wind. 

Respiration not much interfered with. 

Position : Lying down, and is with diffi- 
culty induced to move; looking dull and 
listless. 



738 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — At first give ammonium causticum, ten drops every ten 
or fifteen minutes. Colchicum rarely fails, particularly in cases resulting 
from vegetable food. Repeat it several times if necessary. It is valuable, 
in alternation with arsenicum, in chronic hoove. Colocynth is beneficial, 
given every twenty minutes. If the lungs are much implicated, give 
bryonia in alternation with aconite. For founder from wet clover, a mouth- 
ful or two of corn on the cob is a popular and valuable remedy, often suffi- 
cient without other expedients. When matters have become improved, allow 
no food or water for several hours, and these should be sparing for some 
time afterward. Give nux vomica two or three times daily until the animal 
is fully cured. 

Stabbing or puncturing in very urgent cases may be required, but 
should be resorted to only then. It is best to use a trocar, sufficiently long 
to prevent the paunch from slipping away from it. In the absence of this 
a long, sharp-pointed penknife may be used. At a point midway between 
the ribs and the hips insert the knife, pointing it inward and downward, 
where the rumen is most prominent, insert a quill or other tube into the 
opening at once; or in the absence of such, hold the wound open with a 
smooth stick until the gas has escaped. With this gas solid food may come 
out; and here is the danger, and not in the wound itself. Should this food 
escape into the abdomen instead of passing out freely, it will cause inflam- 
mation of the abdominal organs; or, as another difficulty, the kidneys 
or spleen may be pierced. After such relief, chloride of lime is valuable, 
two drachms being mixed m a quart of water and thus administered. 

GRASS STAGGERS.— DRY MURRAIN. 

This results from a retention of food in the third stomach, instead 
of its passage into the fourth stomach. Fine, dry, hard matters become 
tightly compressed in some cases, and so closely adhere to the mucous 
membranes of the folds that their removal causes the loss of the thick 
membrane which lines the organ; in other cases, soft, souring masses are 
inclosed in the folds. In either case, nutrient food is not passed into the 
fourth stomach. Sometimes the folds are gangrenous, and the fourth 
stomach highly inflamed. It is occasionally epidemic, and its causes are 
supposed to be bad or coarse food, and sudden changes of diet. 

Symptoms. — Excitement, perhaps delirium, followed by dullness and 
quietness; hanging head; indifference; dry muzzle; hanging tongue; promi- 
nent red eyes; constipation; red nasal membrane; high-colored urine; rapid, 
hard pulse; stoppage of milk, or it becomes poor; later, trembling; loss of 
consciousness; swollen belly; cold limbs; death. 



THE OX THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 739 

Treatment. — For high fever, quick pulse, dry, hot muzzle, very hot 
horns and ears, and varying temperature of limbs, ears and muzzle, give 
aconite. Give mix vomica in alternation with aconite, every three or four 
hours until the fever subsides, then alone three or four times a day. Ar- 
senicum and sulphur will be needed in some cases, particularly when the 
dung is thin, watery and offensive. If the case has been neglected, or is 
symptomatic of another disorder, or has become chronic, it will take a 
good while for the stomach to return to its normal condition. Make a 
complete change in diet and allow only such food as is easily digested. 

ULCERATED MOUTH. 

This is contagious and often attacks a whole herd. 

Symptoms. — Red, hot mouth; diminished appetite and milk, the lat- 
ter being watery; in a few days a small red eruption in the mouth, which 
enlarges to various sizes, becoming white, bursting, and leaving a scab; 
eating stopped; drinking with dribbles. If the tongue, in mild cases, does 
not gradually cleanse, the sores join and become of a leaden color, leaving 
corroding ulcers which carry off small pieces of the membrane; inflamed 
throat; cough; offensive breath; loss of flesh. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius three times daily. If the disease does 
not yield, give one grain of antimonium tartaricum two or three times 
daily. Sulphur may be required if there be dry, hot mouth; offensive 
breath; ulcerations with scabs. Rinse the mouth with Condy's Fluid. 

THRUSH. 

Thrush is an inflammatory fungoid disorder, consisting in minute vesi- 
cles which end in white sloughs in the mouth and discharge a fluid, after 
which they become ulcers that run together; the lining peels off, leaving a 
tender surface that prevents eating. There is a profuse flow of stringy 
saliva from the mouth and loss of flesh. It is caused by poor food, irritat- 
ing plants, or constitutional disease; in calves, by the mother's milk. These 
symptoms should be observed carefully, that thrush may not be mistaken 
for Rinderpest. From Foot and Mouth Disease it is known by its not 
being epidemic or contagious, or associated with disease of the feet and 
teats. Thrush usually attacks calves. 

Treatment. — If the tongue or mouth is covered with blisters, and 
stringy saliva flows from the mouth, give mercurius every four hours until 
the case is improved. In the first stages, the vesicles may be removed by 
washing the mouth three times daily with a solution of chlorate of potassa, 



740 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ten grains to an ounce or water, and as often giving a tablespoonful of a 
mixture of ten drops of kali bichromicum to one pint of water. When 
the worst symptoms have yielded to mercurius or other remedies, and the 
animal remains poor, dull, and with loss of appetite, give three grains of 
arsenicum three times daily. Muriatic acid, phosphoric acid, and borax 
may be found of service. In case of calves, give the mother a clean, com- 
fortable stable, and administer sulphur to her; give the same to the calf, 
night and morning, for a few days after the disease has subsided. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE TONGUE. 

This is caused by some wound, and is indicated by a great swelling of 
the tongue, the latter hanging out of the mouth; feeding is stopped; the 
tongue sometimes becomes hard; perhaps swelling of the throat. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius if there is great swelling - of the tongue 
and throat, and aconite if there is much fever. If the inflammation be 
dry, give nitric acid. For hardness of the tongue give carbo vegetabilis. 
If the tongue is injured, give arnica, and wash the mouth with a weak lo- 
tion of the same; in these cases arsenicum and lachesis are also serviceable. 

GLOSS ANTHRAX.— BLACK TONGUE.— BLAIN. 

This is connected with some peculiar state of the atmosphere, and is 
highly contagious and usually fatal, being communicable even to man. 

Symptoms. — It is sudden in its attacks. There are profuse saliva, 
swollen tongue, general distress and fever; on the tongue are small vesicles 
full of matter, or tubercles surrounded with a bluish circle; the vesicles 
burst and give out offensive matter; on the tubercles are yellowish-white 
pustules, sometimes the size of a nut, which turn brown; these are filled 
with a thin, corroding fluid, which inflames and destroys the surrounding 
parts; the head and throat swell enormouslv; breathing obstructed; threat- 
ened or actual suffocation; large ulcers mav form on and near the tongue, 
so that it is wholly gangrenous and insensible, gives out no blood when 
cut, and falls away piece by piece. Occasionally ulcers form in the 
feet, discharging offensive matter. A low typhus-condition ensues in severe 
cases, and death occurs with great suffering, shivering, and swelling of the 
belly. 

Treatment. — Take the case in its first stages, or it will probably 
be too late, especially if the vesicles have broken and some of their con- 
tents have been swallowed. Mercurius is desirable for whitish pustules ; 
canker; ulcerated mouth and tongue; red, offensive discharge, and profuse 



THE OX — THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 741 

saliva. Give arsenicum, ten drops every three hours, for bleeding from 
the nostrils; threatened gangrene; small, rapid pulse; ofTensiveness in the 
mouth; weakness; diarrhoea; cold extremities; drowsiness. Midway be- 
tween the doses give the mouth a thorough washing with carbolic-acid lo- 
tion. This may be given in alternation with mercurius. Should the 
remedies named fail, put two grains of carbolic acid in a little water, and 
give the dilution once every two hours. If there be a full, hard pulse, dry, 
hot skin, much thirst, red, swollen eyes, head and mouth, give aconite 
every two hours. If three or four doses effect an improvement, but 
drowsiness, wildness of look, and swelling of the head, tongue and throat 
remain, alternate aconite and belladonna. If no such improvement occurs, 
give bryonia every three or four hours, alone or alternated with rhus. For 
drowsiness, exhaustion, and involuntary or bloody diarrhoea, give phos- 
phoric acid. Opium is needed if there be hot, dry skin, small, rapid pulse, 
drowsiness, and involuntary diarrhoea. Give good gruel in small quanti- 
ties, or other simple, nutritious food, pouring it gently down the throat if 
it is refused (to do which a horn will seldom be required); and leave some 
at hand for the animal to take if it will. Keep the animal away from 
others. 

Caution. — Attendants have been infected with the virus with fatal re- 
sults. Before handling the animal or the objects which it touches, cover 
the hands with gloves or oil, or both, and take special pains to prevent any 
sore on the hands or other parts from touching the animal. These cautions 
suggest the necessity of keeping other domestic animals at a safe distance 
from the stall, drinking-trough, dishes, or other articles, and from the past- 
ure in which the infected one has been. 

LOSS OF APPETITE— LOSS OF CUD. 

If this occurs without other marks of sickness, examine the food to 
see if it is perfectly good, and the mouth to discover disordered teeth, ul- 
cers, injuries, thrush, inflammation, or foreign substances. These are causes, 
as well as an overloaded stomach, poor digestion, and over-exertion. ' 

Treatment. — If poor food be the cause, and the animal be weak and 
dull, or if there be diarrhoea, give arsenicum a half-hour before feeding 
night and morning, for a week or two. If there be poor digestion, dry, 
and hard dung and constipation, give nux vomica instead of arsenicum. 
If there be added to loss of appetite, diarrhoea, cold feet and loss of thirst, 
give pulsatilla. If some disease be the cause, that must be treated first. 
Do not compel a sick animal to eat. Be sure that the food is perfectly 
good. A change of diet will often be sufficient. 



742 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

EXCESSIVE OR DEPRAVED APPETITE. 

Either of these conditions indicates a bad state of the system. The 
animal may eat greedily, and even take uncommon food, but still grows lean. 

Treatment. — Give pulsatilla every few hours for four or five days; 
sepia and nux vomica will also be of service. Cina is needed if worms are 
the cause. Give cold water and good fresh food, not in excessive quantities. 

INDIGESTION. 

Indigestion results from greedy eating after a long fast; poor or irreg- 
ular food; abrupt transitions from dry to green feed, or from green to dry; 
insufficient feeding; impure water; pasturing in fields wet with dew; in 
calves, excess of improper food, such as bran and water, when weaned 
too soon. 

Symptoms. — Loss of appetite, cud, and (in cows) of the milk; aver- 
sion to food; belching; foul, coated tongue; colic; hard and infrequent 
passages of dung; sometimes diarrhoea. 

Treatment. — Aconite and nux vomica are needed for quick pulse, 
hot horns and ears, and variable temperature of the limbs, given alter- 
nately every three or four hours. For distended paunch give ammonium 
causticum. For much debility and diarrhoea use arsenicum; in some cases 
it is better to alternate it with china, especially if diarrhoea has stopped. 
If the cud is lost, the dung soft and offensive, and the animal coughs and 
moans, give pulsatilla. Feed bran and boiled oats, and if hay is given, it 
is better to soften it in hot water, allowing the animal to drink the remain- 
ing fluid. Give calves rye bran, or boiled wheat, not leaving any to sour. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.— GASTRITIS. 

Inflammation of the stomach is a disorder of the lining membrane of 
the fourth stomach (see page 736), generally involving the duodenum, and 
usually accompanying inflammation of the bowels. It is frequently fatal. 
For its causes, read those given under Inflammation of the Bowels. 

Symptoms. — Dejection; scraping the ground wilh the fore feet; strik- 
ing the belly with the hind feet; groans; lowings; grinding teeth; red 
eyes; looking at the flanks; cold feet, ears and horns; dry muzzle; belly 
swollen and tender; vomiting; diarrhoea; milk thin, yellowish, stringy and 
irritating, or wholly stopped, sometimes reddish and offensive; spasm and 
colic, sometimes creating frenzy ; loss of appetite and cud ; tongue con- 
tracted, straighter and rounder than usual, occasionally yellow or green. 



THE OX THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 7 48 

Treatment. — In the first place give aconite every thirty or sixty 
minutes if the pain is severe; the extremities very hot and cold alternately; 
the pulse full and quick; the body tender. It should be continued at 
longer intervals if the animal improves under it. Next give bryonia; it 
may be alternated with aconite if there be intense pain in the belly and 
costiveness. For heavy breathing, grunting, constipation, dejection and 
pains, give nux vomica. Antimonium crudum is desirable for white or 
yellowish tongue. For much vomiting ipecac is needed. Give belladonna 
and hyoscyamus in alternation every two or three hours for delirium and loss 
of consciousness. Opium is needed for great stupor, and when other medi- 
cines fail. For cold extremities and rapid decline of strength give arseni- 
cum and veratrum in alternation every two or three hours. No solid food 
should be allowed until improvement has commenced. Before that, give 
small quantities of fluid food, as oatmeal or flour gruel and water. 

WOOD-EVIL.— RED-WATER.— MOOR-ILL. 

Moor-ill is an inflammation of the fourth stomach (see page 736), 
frequently involving the lungs, and attended with fullness of the mani- 
plies. It is caused by marshy pasturage, frozen roots and herbs, bad winter 
food, and buds of trees eaten in spring after long feeding on dry winter 
fodder. 

Symptoms. — Dejection; fever; stumbling with hind feet; hot surface 
and breath; quick, hard pulse; staring coat; dry nose and mouth; constant 
thirst; eyes and nostrils red; hide-bound; chewing of cud rare and slow; 
scanty, bloody, dry and black dung; scanty, high-colored, bloody and 
strong-smelling urine; offensive milk; depraved appetite, sticks, bones, and 
the like being taken into the mouth; loss of flesh; weak, trembling loins; 
heaving flanks; moans; internal pains; the animal remains still; chest and 
shoulders stiff; marks of congestion of the brain ; sometimes diarrhoea, the 
dung being offensive, bloody and blackish; inability to rise; general cold- 
ness; gangrene; death. 

Treatment. — Give aconite at the commencement, every two, three, 
or four hours, according to the urgency of the fever-symptoms. Give mer- 
curius for offensive, bloody dung. If the discharges are made with violent 
straining, give mercurius corrosivus. When improvement sets in, give sul- 
phur to complete the cure. For other remedies with their symptoms, and 
for the diet, consult the treatment of Indigestion and Grass Staggers. 
With a view to prevention, improve the drainage of the field, avoid damp 
pastures in the spring until a good growth is afforded, and discard hay which 
has hurtful plants in it. 



744 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS.— ENTERITIS. 

Inflammation of the bowels is an inflamed condition of some or all of 
the parts of the intestines, which sometimes appears to be epidemic, and is 
most prevalent in hot weather. Among its causes are too stimulating or 
rich diet, especially after poor food; unwholesome plants; spoiled food; 
colds; drinking cold water when the animal is heated; injuries to the belly; 
worms in the bowels; badly-treated colic; injuries from the rolling incident 
to colic. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; shivering; pulse quickened, hard, and small, 
growing more feeble; staring coat; belly swollen on the left side; dry 
muzzle; hot mouth; great thirst; tenderness about the flanks and stomach; 
red, prominent eyes; painful moaning; cud suspended; intense pain, with 
indisposition to move; obstinate constipation; dung disgusting, passed with 
straining, and covered with mucus or blood, but usually in small, watery 
quantities; urine very scanty, with frequent attempts to discharge it; heav- 
ing flanks; pawing and kicking; head stretched forward; ears and roots of 
the horns hot; dry, hot mouth, in later stages filled with frothy saliva; 
rapid decline of strength; trembling, tottering hind quarters; loss of motion; 
convulsions; grinding teeth; tongue covered with thick, yellowish mucus; 
sometimes putrid, bloody discharges from the mouth and nose; death, often 
in violent convulsions. If in a few days the pain suddenly ceases, mortifi- 
cation has commenced and death soon ensues. 

It is important to distinguish Enteritis from Colic, and in doing this 
the reader will be materially aided by an examination of the appended 
parallel tables of symptoms. 



Enteritis. 

The disorder generally comes on gradu- 
ally . 

The pain is incessant and increases. 

The pain is aggravated by friction and 
movement. 

Weakness is very characteristic. 



Colic. 

The attack is sudden. 

The pain is intermittent. 

The pain is relieved by friction and mo- 
tion. 

Weakness is not a characteristic till near 
the end of the disorder. 



Treatment. — The first and chief remedy is aconite, three or four times 
an hour for a short time, and once every three or four hours after improvement 
begins until the cure is completed. For intense suffering, nearly impercep- 
tible pulse, cold mouth, and decline of the constitution, give arsenicum every 
half-hour for a few doses; or alternate it with aconite as often. In cases 



THE OX — THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 745 

resulting from a heated animal drinking cold water, arsenicum is called for 
by weakness, low pulse, restlessness, cold mouth, diarrhoea, and cold legs. 
Should the use of aconite at the beginning give only partial relief, and the 
symptoms calling for arsenicum are not present, except that of intense pain, 
give bryonia. For constipation, or dung passed only with much effort, and 
but a few drops of urine resulting from frequent attempts to pass it, give 
nux vomica every half-hour for a few times, then less often when relieved. 
For disorders of the urine cantharis may sometimes be given; and ipecac, 
Pulsatilla, or veratrum album for diarrhoea. 

General Care. — Cloths soaked in hot water and bound closely with 
belts on the body, but not too tightly, accompanied with hot-water drenches 
or injections, will prove valuable aids; but the water must not be scalding 
hot. The local application, with aconite given as directed above, is the 
best treatment in the early stages. After the local applications, rub the 
animal and cover it with dry cloths. Linseed-tea or oatmeal-gruel is the 
best diet. For other suggestions of value, refer to Inflammation of the 
Bowels in the Horse. 

COLIC. 

Colic is very frequent among cattle. It consists in severe pains in the 
bowels, which are liable to lead to inflammation of the digestive organs. 
Its main causes are sudden changes from grass to dry food, or from dry to 
green food; sudden exposure to draughts, or drinking cold water when the 
animal is heated; too much green food, especially if the animal be heated; 
poor grain; frosty grass; grass fermented after being cut; excessive eating 
by greedy animals; worms in the bowels. Sometimes the cause can not be 
determined. 

Symptoms. — The animal refuses food, paws, kicks itself, looks at its 
side, lies down and rises frequently; sometimes falls instantaneously and 
heavily, rolls over, lies on the back with the legs stretched upward; feet, 
ears and horns alternately hot and cold; constipation; thirst; swollen 
paunch; acute pain. If the disease grows worse, inflammation of the bowels 
sets in. (Compare the parallel tables of symptoms given under Inflamma- 
tion of the Bowels.) 

Treatment. — Ammonium causticum, given every half-hour, may be 
the only remedy required, especially if it be given at the beginning. Aconite 
should be given for extreme fever and restlessness, with frequent but fruit- 
less attempts to urinate. If a dose be given as soon as the attack comes on, 
and repeated four times an hour until the symptoms subside, then less often, 
it will usually be sufficient. Should the case be no better after a few doses 



746 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

of aconite, and there be purging, great prostration, and other violent indi- 
cations, give arsenicum three times an hour. Nux vomica is valuable, es- 
pecially when a change of diet is the cause, for colic with constipation; dis- 
charges of small, brownish balls of dung, with mucus; attempts to urinate 
ineffectual, or only producing slight results. Give a dose two or three times 
an hour. Colocynth is desirable for severe pain from green food, and belly 
puffed out with gas. Injections of tepid water, renewed as often as they 
are expelled from the rectum, are valuable aids. Keep the animal from 
falling heavily, to prevent rupture of internal organs. Lead him about 
and, if he threatens to so fall, whip him or otherwise forcibly drive him. 
When at rest, keep a large supply of straw under him. After the disor- 
der has subsided, give sparingly of easily-digested food until the system is 
fully restored. Other suggestions will be found by referring to the subject 
of Colic in the Horse. 

DYSENTERY. 

Dysentery, or inflammation of the membrane of the large intestine, re- 
sults from a variety of causes, such as damp, rank grass; marshy pastures; 
sudden changes of weather; impure water, especially when a heated animal 
drinks it; other diseases. 

Symptoms. — Sometimes diarrhoea or colic first appears; sometimes 
purging is sudden, severe and constant, with straining; griping; bloody 
dung; protrusion of the intestine, which appears hot and swollen; fever; 
tenderness of the belly and loins; violent straining; loss of appetite and 
flesh; skin and hair rough, dry and harsh; milk stopped; sometimes con- 
stipation first appears, the dung being dry, hard, scanty and knotty. When 
inflammation sets in, the dung is discharged more suddenly and violently in 
spurts, becoming stringy and sticky and forming crusts on the hind parts, 
and this form sometimes assumes a chronic character, with more or less 
appearance of occasional recovery. Still later, blood is mixed with the 
dung, the latter soon becoming exceedingly offensive; glandular swellings 
form at the jaws; cold sweats ensue, the anus is ulcerated, the teeth are 
loose, and the eyes are glassy and filmy. 

Treatment. — Mercurius corrosivus is needed for violent straining and 
discharges of blood, or of blood and mucus. When there are pains and a 
swollen belly, colocynth may be given. Mild cases resemble diarrhoea so 
much that they should receive the same treatment. (See Diarrhoea.) Se- 
vere cases resemble Typhus Fever (which consult). For other informa- 
tion, see Dysenterv in the Horse. A little mutton-broth mixed in mashes 
will be found of much service. 



THE OX THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 747 

DIARRHCEA. 

This is caused by improper food; foul water; drinking cold, strange 
water; damp and cold weather; drinking just after eating; weakened con- 
stitution; other diseases; in sucking calves, the milk of the mother when 
she has been improperly fed or overheated. 

Symptoms. — Dung loose, becoming liquid, and spurted some distance; 
pain; loss of appetite, flesh and spirits; offensive dung. 

Treatment. — Should the case be mild and not attended with pain, 
the spirits, flesh and appetite little affected, and the dung not offensive, it 
need cause no alarm, as nature is probably removing an unhealthy condition. 
When the case is violent or long-continued, remedies are necessary. When 
cold is the cause, or in recent cases with shivering, give fifteen to twenty 
drops of camphor three or four times a day in a little cold flour-gruel. 
Before putting it into the gruel, mix it in just enough spirits of wine and 
water (not pure water) to hold it in solution, without "settlings." If the 
dung be mixed with mucus and passed without griping pains, or when it 
is frothy, dark and slimy, or when the rectum protrudes, mercurius is needed. 
If the purging arises from drinking cold water, from exposure to sudden 
changes of temperature, or from impure water, and is attended with chills, 
bryonia will be found efficacious. Arsenicum is demanded by great pain in 
the bowels; watery, slimy, greenish or brownish dung; weakness; loss of 
flesh and appetite; especially in cases caused by unsuitable food or cold 
drinks. It may be given in alternation with mercurius for symptoms indi- 
cating that remedy. Phosphorus, in doses of four or five drops, is excellent. 
Sulphuric acid is good for chronic forms, two or three drops of the concen- 
trated acid being given in a half-pint of water two or three times daily. 
Veratrum is good for both ordinary and chronic forms. Pulsatilla is in- 
valuable for calves affected by the milk. Sulphur in one-grain doses 
should be given occasionally after recovery occurs. Give only soft, boiled 
food, as gruels of flour or oatmeal, and other like articles. 

CONSTIPATION.— COSTIVENESS. 

Constipation generally results from some other disorder, but may exist 
alone, and be caused by cold or irregular feeding. The bowels are bound, 
and what dung passes is dry and hard; the appetite is impaired; the animal 
is uneasy, showing signs of belly-ache. 

Treatment. — Give sulphur, alone, or in alternation with aconite. 
Allow only soft, boiled food. For other suggestions consult the section on 
Indigestion; also that on Constipation in the Horse. 



748 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

MARASMUS. 

Marasmus is a tuberculous growth in the intestines which destroys 
their structure. It occasionally occurs in calves. It is usually caused by 
some chronic disease. 

Symptoms. — Weakness; wasting away, though the animal may rumi- 
nate and may eat heartily, even voraciously; the skin sticks to the ribs; the 
hair loses its luster; diarrhoea, with foul dung. 

Treatment. — Give arsenicum and china, separately or in alternation. 
Silicea, calcarea carbonica, phosphorus and hydrastis are all good. Sul- 
phur should be given to complete a cure when it has commenced. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

Though this disorder is not very common, it is found in animals that 
are stall-fed on high food and deprived of adequate exercise, and occurs 
mainly in winter. 

Symptoms. — In the acute form there will be considerable fever; quick 
pulse; increased heat of the body; eyes, tongue, mouth, nose and teats 
yellow; dry muzzle; hot mouth; ears and horns alternately cold and hot; 
belly swollen and tender, particularly on the right side; constipation or 
violent purging; urine deep yellow; milk bitter and yellowish, or lessened, 
ropy and salty; general functions feeble. This form lasts about two weeks. 
In the chronic form the fever is weak or absent; the dung is scanty, hard 
and clay-like; the milk separates into watery and cheesy elements; there is 
a very marked and general yellowish hue in the skin; there is a loss of flesh, 
strength and spirits; the animal is hide-bound; great distress comes on, and 
may be followed by death. This form may last several months. Compare 
the symptoms of Jaundice below. 

Treatment. — Mercurius is needed for yellow tint; dung offensive, 
hard, whitish or yellowish; or fluid dung. For costiveness with severe pain, 
fever, and thickly-coated tongue, give bryonia and mercurius in alternation. 
Nux vomica may be given with bryonia for constipation and high-colored 
urine. In chronic cases lycopodium is serviceable. Give juicy, nutritious food. 

JAUNDICE. 

Jaundice arises from a morbid state of the liver, as hardening or inflam- 
mation, from gall-stones, or other obstruction to the passage of the gall to 
the gall-bladder. It is liable to confusion with Inflammation of the Liver, 
which is mentioned above. 



THE OX THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 749 

Symptoms. — These vary according to the severity of the case, and the 
successive stages, but some or all of the following will occur: — Poor appe- 
tite; thinness; quick breath; tender side; cud chewed imperfectly; mem- 
branes of the mouth, nose and eyes yellow; tongue lined with sticky mucus; 
diminished milk, which is bitter and yellowish; yellow skin, urine and dung; 
hot skin and other fever-symptoms; scaly, mangy eruptions {not seen in 
inflammation of the liver.) 

Treatment. — Give mercurius every three or four hours, especially 
for yellowness of the eyes, skin, urine and milk, and for excessive purging; 
or if the dung be whitish. Podophyllin should be substituted for mercu- 
rius if that remedy fails or has been given in undue quantities for any pur- 
pose. Arsenicum is to be administered for loss of appetite and cud, scanty 
urine, and great prostration. For marked constipation give bryonia and 
mix vomica in alternation every three hours. To complete the cure and 
restore the system, sulphur will be invaluable. The food should be juicy 
and nutritious, consisting of cut carrots, potatoes, turnips, and the like. Past- 
ures which contain dandelion are efficacious, and the young and tender grass 
of spring-time will sometimes be sufficient at that season of the year. 
Keep the bowels in a moderately lax condition. Further directions will be 
found in the treatment of Jaundice in the Horse. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE SPLEEN. 

This occasionally affects oxen, bringing on death in three or four days 
from the onset. It is generally a complication of some other disease, but 
may be caused by over-work after feeding, the cud not being sufficiently 
chewed. It is especially common in damp, cold weather, though some- 
times in very dry conditions. 

Symptoms. — Pain in the belly; tender flanks; swelling on the side 
and flank (less however than that in Hoove, coming on less rapidly, and 
giving a deep, heavy sound when struck, instead of a clear, hollow one, as 
in Hoove); loss of appetite and cud; dry, rough muzzle; fixed look; low 
moans; extended head; difficult gait; pulse at first full and hard, then soft 
and very small. 

Treatment. — Give bryonia for fever, thirst, constipation, and brown 
tongue, either alone or, if there be nervousness and deep, shaking breath- 
ing, in alternation with aconite. China is good for hardness and swelling 
in the parts about the liver. If the region of the spleen is tender and the 
animal often looks toward it, give nux vomica. If the disease becomes 
chronic, give one or two doses daily of ferrum or sulphur. Mild, nutritious 
food is necessary. 



750 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

PERITONITIS. 

Peritonitis is an inflammation of the membrane which envelops the ab- 
dominal vitals, and generally ends fatally in about a week. It is similar 
to Inflammation of the Bowels, and the reader is referred to that disease for 
important suggestions. It is caused by injuries to the walls of the abdo- 
men, castration, surgical operations, sudden cold, and stimulating food after 
calving. 

Symptoms. — Inflammatory fever; tender abdomen; swelling of the 
belly; tightness of the flanks; the animal looks at the sides, seldom lies 
down, and stands with the back bent down and the feet drawn under the 
body; when down, it rolls on the back; hot abdomen; cold hoofs and ears; 
pulse rapid and short; cessation of pain, rapid decline and intermittent 
pulse indicate mortification and imminent death. Dropsy of the belly may 
be the result. 

Treatment. — Adopt the treatment of Peritonitis in the Horse. 

PROTRUSION OR FALL OF THE RECTUM. 

The bowel sometimes protrudes after diarrhoea, dysentery or constipa- 
tion, or may do so independently. 

Treatment. — After gently pushing back the rectum it may be neces- 
sary to secure it by an operation of the surgeon. If a mechanical injury be 
the cause, give arnica, alone or in alternation with aconite. When diarrhoea 
is the origin of the trouble, give arsenicum. For further information when 
diarrhoea or dysentery is the cause, consult the sections devoted to those. 

WORMS. 

Worms of various kinds are found in cattle, and are caused by weak- 
ness of the digestive organs, morbid secretion of mucus, and disordered 
lungs and liver. 

Symptoms. — Colicky pains; poor condition; appetite good, perhaps 
voracious; restlessness, particularly when the stomach is empty; fits; coughs; 
worms in the dung, the only certain sy?nptom. Many symptoms of other 
diseases are supposed to be caused by worms, while the worms may in- 
crease merely by the existence of such symptoms. 

Treatment. — Give sound, nutritious food, administer cina night and 
morning for a few days, an hour before feeding, for varying appetite; tight 
or purging bowels; rough coat; fits; foul breath. If improvement ap- 
pears, continue this remedy. If it fails or only partially relieves, give two- 



THE OX THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 751 

grain doses of the trituration of arsenicum as directed for cina. For tape- 
wor?n, felix mas is the most effectual, a half-ounce of a decoction being 
given early in the morning and late at night. Rock-salt, a lump being 
placed where the animals can lick it, is recommended as a preventive of 
worms. Consult the section on Worms in the Horse. 

FLUKES.— WORMS IN THE LIVER. 

Worms in the liver or bile-ducts sometimes cause great swelling of the 
liver, and usually prove fatal. They occur mainly in low countries and 
after damp seasons, and may be taken in with the food and developed in the 
liver. 

Symptoms. — Depression; inactivity; red, watery, or yellowish eyes; 
yellowish skin; standing hair; loss of appetite; offensive smell from the 
mouth and nose; white, watery, offensive dung passes irregularly. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius for the symptoms just named. Ar- 
senicum is good for chronic cases, with diarrhoea, prostration and cold 
limbs. Sulphur is needed to complete a cure, when once it begins. 

PILES, DUST-BALLS, ETC. 

For Piles, Dust-Balls, Hair-Balls, and other disorders of the digestive 
organs which are not treated in this chapter, consult the respective sections 
devoted to these disorders in the Horse. 




CHAPTER III. 
THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 

COUGH. 

jOUGH is usually a symptom of some disease, but it may exist inde- 
pendently. In the former case it is remedied by the removal of the 
disease; in the latter, the treatment below will generally cure it. In 
a healthy condition, cattle often have a cough which is not con- 
strained and causes no inconvenience. The independent cough which de- 
mands treatment is caused by dust; indigestion ; some substance in the wind- 
pipe; cold. If it be dull, hollow, worse after drinking, and easily excited, 
the cause is probably lung-disorder, or, if it be severe, it mav result from 
dropsy of the chest. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna in most cases, especially for dry, hack- 
ing or barking cough. Dulcamara is needed for loose cough from a cold. 
For cough attended with diarrhoea, give chamomilla. Ipecac is good for 
difficult breathing, phlegm, and rattling of the chest. Give arsenicum for 
oppressed breathing, worse on exposure to cold; loss of strength and flesh. 
For long-standing cases, for dry, rough cough, and for that caused by frost, 
give bryonia. Sulphur is suitable for long-continued, obstinate cough. It 
may be alternated with one of the above remedies which has not effected 
the desired result. Of these remedies give a dose three or four times a day 
until improvement begins; then once or twice a day. Keep the animal in 
a place that is comfortable, well ventilated, and free from draughts of air 
and north or east winds. Give only good food, as carrots and linseed-tea. 

COLD.— CATARRH.— CORYZA. 

Common cold or catarrh is caused by exposure to draughts of air, or 
drinking cold water, when the animal is heated; sudden changes of 
weather; cold water applied to the skin of a heated animal, without subse- 
quently drying; cold, wet weather; hot, close, impure and overcrowded 

752 



THE OX — THE RESPIRATORY ORGAN'S. 753 

stables; causes generally which bring on bronchitis (which see). It is 
often epidemic. 

Symptoms. — Fever; loss of appetite; dry, husky, wheezing cough 
and breathing; dry nose, wit?h thin, watery discharge from the nostrils and 
eyes; sneezing; red, swollen eyes; sometimes thick nasal discharge; low 
spirits. If neglected, cold may end in diseases of the larynx and lungs. 

Treatment. — Camphor is by far the best if used promptly at first, 
being given once a day. For sore throat and thick, offensive nasal dis- 
charge, give mercurius, alone or alternated with belladonna. For consti- 
pation and impaired appetite nux vomica will be invaluable. For short, 
painful breathing, violent coughs, and unwillingness to move, bryonia 
is needed. Arsenicum is to be chosen for cold resulting from a heated ani- 
mal drinking cold water; difficult breathing; swollen legs; loss of appetite; 
much weakness; purging. When improvement takes place and has ad- 
vanced a considerable time, give sulphur twice daily for a few days. Of 
these remedies, speaking generally, the one selected should be given three 
or four times daily until the symptoms indicating it have abated, then less 
often. If an animal has been subjected to any of the causes of cold, or if a 
cold has just appeared, give three or four doses of camphor, twenty or thirty 
minutes apart, in the first stages, not after inflammation appears. This, 
with proper care, will usually suffice. See Cold in the Horse. 

SORE THROAT. 

Sore throat is an inflammation of the membranes of the back part of 
the mouth, involving the other organs of respiration. It is often epidemic 
in swampy, foggy districts, having causes similar to those of catarrh, though 
it may result from external injuries or irritating food. 

Symptoms. — If the organs involved in swallowing are mainly affected, 
food is wholly refused or it is not well masticated, and is thrown out of the 
mouth; fluids in drinking freely flow from the nose; painful and difficult 
swallowing; saliva first flows from the mouth, then mucus; swollen tongue; 
the cud is suspended; painful and swollen throat; fever. When the 
larynx, glottis and upper part of the windpipe are affected, breathing is 
difficult; frequent dry, hoarse, painful cough, with threatened suffocation; 
painful, hot and swollen throat; full, rapid, hard pulse; great thirst; fluids 
returning through the nose during drinking; head stiffly stretched out; 
hard, dry dung. 

Treatment. — For full pulse, hot breath, dull, heavy eyes, skin once 
hot, then cold, give aconite in the first stages, ten drops to the dose. 
Belladonna is needed for swollen throat; quick, full pulse; hot skin; flow- 
48 



754 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ing tears; difficult and painful swallowing; stringy saliva; drv cough. It 
will often be of especially good service if alternated with aconite. Mer- 
curius is valuable for sore throat with thick nasal discharge. Arsenicum 
is especially useful for malignant sore throat with offensive breath, prostra- 
tion, and tendency to gangrene, ten drops every two hours until better. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS.— PNEUMONIA- 

This is an inflamed condition of the lung-tissues. (See Bronchitis and 
Pleurisy. ) It is caused by exposure to cold or to damp, cold weather; 
drinking cold water when heated; hard or long driving. It may attend 
bronchitis or pleurisy, and may end in consumption, dropsy of the chest, or 
other serious disorders. It is sometimes epidemic. 

Symptoms. — Shivering; horns, muzzle and ears alternately hot and 
cold; cold limbs; heaving, panting flanks; hanging head; dullness; muzzle 
once dry, again moist; costiveness; hard, black, offensive dung; dry. fre- 
quent cough; mouth and breath hot: loss of appetite and cud; great thirst; 
quickened pulse occasionally, perhaps above sixty to the minute; grinding 
of teeth ; groans. Later on, discharges of watery phlegm from the 
mouth, which grows thick and sticky; loss of milk; sweats; sometimes 
hard, swollen teats; tears profuse; tenderness of the back and crupper; the 
animal seldom lies down. Later still, very difficult breathing; great weak- 
ness; belly tucked up and legs drawn under it; dung more and more liquid 
and offensive; ulcers on the body come and go; offensive discharge from 
the eves; unconsciousness; pupils of the eyes enlarged and filmv: mem- 
branes of the mouth, nose and throat grow cold; imminent death. 

Treatment. — Aconite given every three hours at the beginning will 
be effective and often sufficient; if marked improvement should not appear, 
give this in alternation with bryonia as often. Arsenicum is needed for 
great prostration. Sulphur will complete a cure once begun and restore the 
system. If the weather be cold, clothe the animal against damp and cold. 
Give sparingly of such food as bran and boiled oats. Should other diseases 
follow, adopt the treatment given under them. Also consult the section on 
Pneumonia or Inflammation of the Lungs in the Horse. 

CONSUMPTION. 

Consumption is a serious, usually chronic, disorder that is marked by 
tubercles in the lungs, which grow, run together, and form abscesses. It is 
caused by neglect or bad treatment of pneumonia or pleurisy, by cold, chill, 
over-exertion, or a hereditary tendency to the diseases. 



THE OX THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 755 

Symptoms. — Feeble, hoarse, gurgling, painful cough; impaired diges- 
tion; loss of appetite; irregular cud; loss of flesh, also of hair, mainly on 
the eyebrows. 

Treatment. — Give nitrum and sulphur alternately at the beginning. 
In later stages relief will be given by phosphorus and stannum. Put the 
animal in a comfortable, airy stable, free from north and east winds, apart 
from other animals. Do not hurry, alarm or excite it. Change the litter 
often and keep it dry. Rub and curry the skin frequently. The disease 
may be relieved and the animal's life be prolonged, but it will be unfit 
for milk, beef or breeding. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Bronchitis, or inflammation of the air-tubes leading to the lungs, rare 
in cattle, is caused by neglected or badly-treated cold, by the influences 
which induce a cold (see Cold), and by disordered digestion. 

Symptoms. — Indications of a cold; thick, wheezing breath; exposure to 
cold causes quickened pulse and breathing, with cough and a rattle in the 
windpipe; dull eyes; hot mouth; very rapid loss of flesh; great dread of 
motion; belly tucked up; heaving flanks; the cough is frequent and pain- 
ful; staring coat. 

Treatment. — Give aconite at the beginning for quickened pulse and 
breath, hot mouth, short, frequerit cough, and fever-symptoms. Bryonia 
is needed for quick, difficult breathing, rattle in the windpipe, and frequent 
cough. For rapid loss of flesh and strength, feeble pulse, and restlessness, 
give arsenicum. Belladonna is especially good for violent, short, dry cough- 
ing, red eyes, and wild look. Consult the section on Bronchitis in the Horse. 

WORMS IN THE AIR-TUBES. 

Cattle a year old or less are affected with a disorder which may be 
called a form of bronchitis, since it is an irritation and inflammation of the 
air-tubes, resulting from the presence of silver-colored worms, two or three 
inches in length. It chiefly invades cattle that are kept on low, marshy or 
woody pastures, with little or no water. 

Symptoms. — Cough, at first dry, short and husky; quickened breath- 
ing; distress in the chest; sometimes grunting; nasal discharge; quick 
pulse; dullness; loss of flesh. Later, there will be restlessness; hanging 
ears; distended nostrils; hollow eyes; weakness; death. Sometimes appar- 
ently moderate health is attended by complete loss of flesh. 

Treatment. — Let the animal inhale chloroform at intervals to be 



756 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

regulated by the urgency of the case. If there be doubt as to the existence 
of worms, use the treatment already recommended for Bronchitis. 

PLEURO-PNEUMONIA.— LUNG-MURRAIN. 

By these terms is meant a very serious malarial or contagious disease 
caused by sudden and great changes from heat to cold, or the opposite; 
crowding animals together in dark, damp, poorly-ventilated stables; conta- 
gion; high or artificial feeding. It is very fatal. 

Symptoms. — In the first stage the attack may be slow, without indi- 
cations of serious results; it may be rapid and quickly fatal; or it may begin 
with violent diarrhoea, weakness and loss of flesh. Then there will be an 
occasional short, dry, husky cough; harsh, dry murmur, or confused hum- 
ming in the lungs, instead of the natural moist, silky sound (detected by 
placing the ear to the sides of the chest); milk diminished and yellowish; 
impaired appetite; quick and labored breathing on motion; pulse sometimes 
a little quickened and weaker; dullness; heat or coldness of the body; either 
constipation, purging, or irregular bowels. In the second stage the cough 
is more frequent and painful; thick phlegm in the mouth; grating teeth; 
grunting; loss of appetite, cud and milk; pain on pressure between the ribs; 
pulse quick and feeble; skin hard and tight; dung hard and dry. In the 
third stage, the breathing is much quickened and labored, the breath being 
offensive ; pulse quicker, feebler and irregular; horns, legs, and ears cold; 
cold sweats; the legs stand in various unusual positions; great loss of flesh 
and strength; weak cough; urine high-colored; violent purging of watery, 
offensive, blackish, often bloody, dung; death. 

Treatment. — Give aconite at first, ten drops every hour or two, ac- 
cording to the urgency, for quick, hard pulse, short, painful breathing, dry, 
hot mouth, scanty milk, cold base of the horns, hard dung, and other fever- 
symptoms. Bryonia is often needed after aconite, especially if the latter 
has afforded only partial relief, in which case it should be alternated with it, 
each once in two hours. The symptoms for bryonia are frequent, painful 
cough, and avoidance of motion. Phosphorus is valuable for enfeebled or 
obscure murmur of the lungs; obstructed breathing; slimy or bloody phlegm 
in the mouth. Prepare it fresh every day. Ammonium causticum is 
indicated by quick, difficult breathing; rough, staring coat; languor; weak 
pulse; frequent cough; shivering or trembling; skin hot and dry, but grow- 
ing moist; great weakness and listlessness. Arsenicum is invaluable for ex- 
treme weakness; grinding of the teeth; loss of appetite; short, wheezing and 
difficult breathing; clammy sweats; small, quick pulse; offensive nasal dis- 
charge; much purging, and for epidemic cases. Sulphur is valuable for 



THE OX THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 757 

aiding a recovery when once begun, and to prevent a relapse, especially 
when bronchitis is present, with a pus-like mucus coming from the nose. 
Begin treatment as soon as the first symptoms appear. Separate the animal 
from others at once. Give mashes, oatmeal-gruel, linseed-tea, a small 
quantity of good hay being added after a few days, but feed sparingly, gradu- 
ally increasing as recovery progresses, remembering that a return of the dis- 
ease usually results from too soon overloading the stomach, and is generally 
fatal. Forcing down food, even in drenches, will almost invariably cause 
death. 

This is one of the most fearful and destructive diseases of cattle, and 
too much pains can not be taken to prevent its invasion, and to completely 
isolate all infected animals, so that it may not spread. Its restriction or sup- 
pression is engaging the attention of many able men, and has commanded 
the attention of our state legislatures and national Congress. 

PLEURISY. 

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the membrane which envelops the lungs. 
It is caused by exposure to draughts of wind or frost; a wet bed; blows on 
the side; over-exertion; neglected catarrh; calving followed by exposure. 

Symptoms. — The taking in of the breath is fitful or interrupted, its 
expulsion being full and long; heaving flanks; full, quick pulse; slight 
cough; dullness; lowered head; animal indisposed to move; mouth, ears 
and nose hot; muzzle dry; feet and horns alternately cold and hot; much 
thirst; loss of appetite and cud; urine red; dung dry, blackish and slimy; 
constipation; milk much decreased; shivering; twitching and wave-like 
motions of the skin; very tender sides, chest and spine. In later stages, 
there will be profuse tears; nasal discharge clear and watery, becoming red 
and bloody; pulse feebler and quicker; breathing more troubled; sweats; 
nostrils wide open; finally death. In this disorder the breathing is effected 
by a peculiar movement of the abdomen, while in pneumonia it is still 
done by the ribs; there is more pain on pressing between the ribs than in 
pneumonia. Pleurisy is liable to end in dropsy of the chest. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for quick, full, hard pulse, dry, hot mouth, 
and quickened breathing. If in addition to the symptoms just named there 
be a bloody nasal discharge, short, catching breath, with rattling in the 
windpipe, gruntings, pain on pressing the side, and constipation, give bry- 
onia in alternation with aconite every two or three hours. Arsenicum is re- 
quired in advanced stages for rapid prostration and feeble pulse. When 
improvement has begun sulphur will complete the cure. For other infor- 
mation consult the section on Pleurisy in the Horse. 




CHAPTER IV. 
THE SKIN. 

ERUPTIONS. 

ENERAL eruptions in the form of spots, pustules, scabs, or scales 

may appear on different parts of the body, resulting from insufficient, 

excessive, or poor food ; from constitutional disease ; from unhealthy 

conditions generally. The sudden suppression of eruptions is often 

the cause of serious or fatal derangements of internal organs. 

Treatment. — If disease be the cause, remove it. For independent 
cases, give two grains of sulphur in the morning and as much arsenicum at 
night. Other valuable remedies are graphites, silicea, rhus and mercurius, 

CHAPS AND CRACKS. 

Chaps and cracks in the skin are due to walking on marshes, to the 
applications of strong medicines, and to internal disease. In the last case, 
the disease should itself be treated. 

Treatment. — In independent cases, that is, without internal disease, 
give arsenicum internally. Sepia will be valuable if the skin is hard, dry 
and peeling off. Phosphoric acid is needed when the hardened edges of 
the cracks form wrinkles and ridges. If the pasture is marshy, change it. 

WARTS. 

Warts are tumors of varying size on different parts of the body, which 
need no description. 

Treatment. — Moist, encrusted, chapped warts, of large size and dis- 
gusting appearance, should be painted twice daily with strong tincture of 
thuja, a dilution of the same being given internally night and morning. 
Ulcerated warts are best treated with arsenicum. Small warts on the lips 
call for calcarea carbonica; and those which are painful and bleeding, for 
causticum. After a few doses of either of the above remedies, give sulphur, 
and if it fail resume the former medicine. See Warts in the Horse. 

758 



THE OX THE SKIN. 759 

TUBERCLES. 

Tubercles are small, inactive swellings, caused by rubbing, colds, 
stings, bruises, internal disorder, and the like. 

Treatment. — If external violence be the cause, give arnica internally 
and apply externally. For hard, small swellings, give calcarea carbonica, 
followed by sulphur. If an internal disorder be the cause, treat that. 

CYSTS. 

These are inactive tumors of varying size on different parts of the body 
which contain morbid matters of varying color, quality and consistence. 

Treatment. — Continue calcarea carbonica once or twice daily; if it 
fails, give graphites. For tumor under the jaw and above the throat, give 
mercurius. If pus forms in the cyst, hepar and silicea will be efficacious. 
Sulphur is useful for almost all forms, and may be given occasionally. It 
will also complete a cure once begun. Mercurius-corrosivus lotion may 
be used in old or chronic cases, one part by weight to sixteen of hot water. 

FUNGOUS GROWTHS. 

A fungus is an excrescence due to the rubbing of a rope at the base of 
the horns, or to the yoke, and also may appear on the hoof. Pus sometimes 
forms, and the part affected may become very red. 

Treatment. — If the fungus is very tender upon pressure, apply 
arnica, one part to fifteen of water. If it becomes hard and is not tender, 
apply a lotion of mercurius corrosivus, one part by weight to sixteen of hot 
water. Thuja is needed for a fungus at the base of the horns; sepia for one 
on the hoof; and phosphorus for those that are very red. If a fungus col- 
lects pus, treat it as directed under Abscess on another page. 

SPONGE. 

Sponge is a name given to a spongy growth on the knee, usually 
caused by an injury. It is at first a hot and painful swelling, then a cold, 
hard, inactive tumor, sometimes itching and discharging pus. 

Treatment. — If an external injury be the cause, apply arnica-lotion, 
rubbing it in well three times a day. Should the swelling become hard, 
rub in a lotion of mercurius corrosivus, one part by weight to sixteen of hot 
water, until the part becomes tender and scurfy, repeating the application in 
about ten days. Mercurius corrosivus" internally may be of use. 



760 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

MILK SCAB.— CRUSTA LACT^A. 

Crusta lactsea consist in white pustules on the head, chiefly about the 
mouth, nose, eyes and ears, discharging a sticky fluid, becoming dry, and 
leaving bluish- white scabs. Other parts of the body may be somewhat 
affected. It is very contagious but causes no itching; has thicker scabs than 
exist in itch; and is not dangerous, though it produces loss of strength and 
flesh, and diarrhoea. 

Treatment.— Persevere some time, once or twice a day, with either 
calcarea carbonica, rhus, arsenicum, thuja, or sulphur, applying a lotion of 
arsenicum externally; and if the lotion is a failure, rub on thuja occasionally. 

ITCH MANGE. 

This is similar to itch in the human being, and is caused by the pres- 
ence of numerous minute parasites. The predisposing causes are bad 
food, wet weather, filth, close, damp, unclean stables, bad winter care, in- 
deed, whatever puts the animal in poor condition. It is more commonly 
taken by contagion from an infected animal, and may thus be communi- 
cated to the human system. 

Symptoms. — In dry itch, restlessness; scratching; naked or scaled and 
bleeding spots; perhaps ulcers and scabs later, giving out a fluid which 
soon thickens and forms crusts. In moist itch, larger, deeper ulcers, with a 
thin, reddish, irritating fluid and thicker scabs than in dry itch. Marasmus 
or dropsy may ensue (which see). Itch is liable to be attended with lice 
(see Lice). The only absolute proof of itch is the presence of the insect, 
which may be detected if one will scrape off some of the scurf and ex- 
amine it carefully — with a magnifying glass if his sight is not sharp. 

Treatment. — Make an ointment of one ounce of sulphur and two 
ounces of lard, thoroughly mixed. Rub this on with a clean, large paint- 
brush, being sure to reach every part and wrinkle where the parasites may 
be. If a few remain they defeat a cure. Use this morning and night for 
a day or two. Give internally two grains of sulphur in the morning, and 
as much arsenicum at night. Wash the scaly parts thoroughly with soap 
and tepid water, and then carefully dry with a cloth. Ointments contain- 
ing mercury and arsenic are to be avoided. Pastures in which infected 
animals have run should be vacated eight to ten weeks before they are 
used again, the cloths, brushes and other articles used in the treatment be- 
ing burned or thoroughly boiled, and the stable, gates and posts against 
which they have rubbed being studiously washed with strong carbolic 
acid to prevent a spread of the disorder in the herd. 



THE OX THE SKIN. 701 

GOITRE. 

Goitre is a tumor with enlarged gland on the neck, usually the left 
side, and is sometimes chronic. The animal carries the head outward and 
upward, at times bellows in distress, and has a painful cough. 

Treatment. — Spongia, continued some time, is useful; iodine is also. 
Mercurius and drosera may be required. An occasional lotion of mer- 
curius-corrosivus may be used. As the disorder is due to the properties of 
the drinking-water and the soil — chiefly lime and phosphates — a change of 
water and pasture will afford the surest grounds of hope of a cure. At 
best, protracted treatment will be necessary. 

WORMS IN THE BACK. 

Worms in the back are caused by the gad-fly piercing the skin and 
laying eggs, which hatch, leaving maggots that remain until the next 
summer, before escaping as gad-flies, unless removed by treatment. These 
maggots live on the pus resulting from a tumor which becomes as large as 
a small filbert. They cause pain, irritation, pus-formations, loss of strength, 
and damage to the hide by perforating it. They attack only healthy cattle. 

Treatment. — Through the small opening which will be found in the 
tumor, thrust a small instrument or red-hot needle and thus destroy the 
maggots, carefully searching the whole back for them. The same advan- 
tage may be gained by squeezing the tumor and thus crushing or forcing 
out the worm; or by frequently washing the tumors with camphorated 
brandy. Give sulphur internally after the above treatment. 

LICE. 

Lice afflict calves and young cattle especially, and are found chiefly 
behind the horns and ears, on the membrane passing down from the throat, 
on the withers, and back of the neck. 

Treatment. — Dress well with olive oil, or with equal parts of water 
(or glycerine) and sulphurous acid. A lotion of carbolic acid is also good. 
If eruptions caused by the lice do not disappear when the insects are re- 
moved, give a few doses of arsenicum. Observe perfect cleanliness and 
destroy the bedding of an infected animal. It will be well to rub all ob- 
jects which the infected animal has touched with carbolic acid. Keep the 
animal in good health and flesh, to ward off lice. Fowls roosting about 
the stable very often impart lice to cattle, and their removal is often 
necessary. 



762 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



STINGS AND BITES OF INSECTS. 

Stings or bites may cause inflammation and pain. Remove the stings 
if they remain in the skin, and foment with diluted arnica or ledum. If 
many insects, as a swarm of bees, have settled on the animal, give arnica 
internally and apply externally. Apis is an excellent general remedy. 

HIDE-BOUND. 

Hide-bound is a condition resulting from disordered digestion, deficient 
or poor food, rough weather, intestinal worms, or chronic disorders of the 
lungs. The skin is hard and adheres to the ribs, the hair being rough. 

Treatment. — Treat the disease which causes the condition. As a 
rule, arsenicum is best for loss of flesh and strength, poor appetite, and cold 
skin, three doses being given daily for a few days, then twice a day. 

SURFEIT, ERYSIPELAS, ETC. 



For all requisite information upon Surfeit, Erysipelas, Ringworm and 
other disease of the skin not treated in this chapter, refer to the correspond- 
ing ailments of the Horse. 



CHAPTER V. 
THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

: NFLAMMATION of the kidneys is often combined with inflamma- 
tion of the intestines or bladder. It is caused by changes of tempera- 
ture, eating unsuitable food or plants, strong medicines, as cantharides in 
^p? too large doses, and external injuries to the loins. A careful study of its 
symptoms is requisite to distinguish it from other urinary disorders. 

Symptoms. — Scanty urine, passed with pain and difficulty (by which 
this disorder is distinguished from Inflammation of the Bladder, in which 
the urine is passed readily and copiously); urine thin at first, then thick 
and red; parts near the kidneys very hot and tender on pressure; back 
arched; legs brought together under the body ; hot rectum; dung scanty, 
its passage giving pain; appetite and cud lost; considerable thirst; quick, 
weak pulse. 

Treatment. — -When there are much fever and pain, give aconite at 
once in doses of five to ten drops every one or two hours. When such a 
condition is accompanied "with frequent painful urgings to urinate, followed 
by a discharge of small quantities of bloody urine, cantharis should be 
given in alternation with aconite. After the inflammatory symptoms have 
subbided and frequent but almost ineffectual efforts to pass urine continue, 
with obstinate constipation, mix vomica will be quite sufficient. Give small 
quantities of light, nutritious food, and clothe the animal comfortably in cold 
weather. For further directions, see this disorder in the Horse. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Inflammation of the bladder is so similar to that of the kidneys, that 
the reader should here note the symptoms mentioned in the preceding article, 
together with this distinction, that in this disorder of the bladder the animal 
leans first on one side and then on the other, with the back almost constantly 
arched. 

763 



764 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Adopt the treatment laid down for Inflammation of the 
Kidneys, adding hyoscyamus to the remedies there named. 

SPASM OF THE BLADDER. 

A spasm of the neck of the bladder is caused -by stoppage of sweat; 
too watery food; cold feet; too long retention of urine. It is indicated by 
great restlessness ; unsuccessful efforts to urinate; much suffering; scraping 
with the feet; violent falls. The retention of urine distinguishes the dis- 
order from colic. 

Treatment. — For fever, and scanty, bloody urine, give aconite from 
one to four times an hour, according to the urgency of the case. Similar 
doses of cantharis will afford much relief. See this disorder in the Horse. 

BLOODY URINE. 

Bloody urine more often attacks males than females, and is caused by 
improper or poisonous food, catarrh, injuries from jumping, blows, and the 
like (especially in cows at the time of calving). 

Symptoms. — Loss of appetite; much thirst; cold feet, ears and horns; 
rapid pulse; pain on pressure about the loins; chills; mouth and tongue hot; 
pulse feeble; passage of dung painful; the urine gradually becomes red, its 
passage in later stages being very distressing and made up of drops only; if 
the bladder and kidneys become much inflamed, the case is hopeless. 

Treatment. — Give cantharis two or three times daily; if it fails, give 
camphor twice a day, ten grains or more with pounded loaf sugar, placed 
dry on the tongue or put in a little water and well shaken. Consult the 
article on the same disease in the Horse. 

BLACK WATER. 

Black water, also called " red water," is caused by neglect, harmful 
vegetation in swampy lands, buds, decayed leaves, insufficient grass and 
water in summer, sudden changes in temperature, diseases of the stomach 
and liver, injuries, and exposure to wet and cold soon after calving. 

Sympto?ns. — At first, dullness, poor appetite, tender loins, unthrifty- 
looking skin; then red urine, or even black, entire loss of appetite, all parts 
of the skin and whites of the eyes yellowish-brown; quick, full pulse; the 
bowels, perhaps very loose at first, become greatly constipated; sunken eves; 
rapid loss of strength and flesh; violent purging; death, unless treated 
properly. 



THE OX THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 765 

Treatment. — Fever and diminished milk demand aconite every three 
hours until the fever abates. Give canthaiis for scanty, red urine passed with 
pain and straining. For sudden attacks, with shivering, cold extremities, 
and great difficulty in urinating, give eight drops of camphor every half- 
hour for three or four times. Ipecac is needed if the whites of the eyes are 
tinged with yellow, and if the breathing is difficult. If injuries be the 
cause, give arnica every half-hour. Pulsatilla is specially valuable for the 
general symptoms. Give such food as mashes, gruels, fresh meadow-grass, 
and linseed-tea, in small quantities. Avoid turnips. Keep the animal from 
winds, allowing exercise in a suitable shed or yard, but avoiding the hot 
sun for several days after an apparent recovery. 

RETENTION OF THE URINE. 

Retention of urine, different from its suppression in Inflammation of the 
Kidneys, has symptoms similar to those of Inflammation of the Bladder 
(which see); the urine is wholly stopped, or passes only in small quantities 
and with much difficulty. 

Treatment. — If the symptoms be severe, give ten drops of nux 
vomica every half-hour or oftener. Cantharis and bryonia are very valuable 
for the general symptoms. For other remedies see this disorder in the Horse. 

DIABETES. 

Diabetes is a large discharge of sugary urine, at first clear, then 
greenish. It is caused by cold, or by juicy, frozen or frosted food. 

Symptoms. — Excessive urine a*nd thirst; growing weakness; difficult 
passage of urine; continued fever. 

Treatment. — Phosphoric acid is the best remedy, but nux vomica and 
sulphur are useful for the general symptoms. Give water sparingly, a 
little flour-gruel mixed with water being also advisable. Avoid much juicy 
food. See " tests " and full treatment of Diabetes in the Horse. 

STONE IN THE BLADDER. 

Symptoms. — Very scanty urine; stamping; looking at the flanks; 
switching of the tail; later, bursting of the bladder; appearance of dropsy 
sets in, followed by returning appetite, though death is near. 

Treatment. — Treat the same as Stone or Gravel in the Horse. The 
stones, when once formed, can be successfully removed only by one of 
professional skill, and are often incurable. 



766 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

CALVING AND FLOODING. 

Though calving is purely physiological, it may lead to more or less 
serious consequences if the cow is not properly treated. She should be dry 
for about a month before calving, which will be in about nine months after 
impregnation. This will allow an adequate nourishment for the calf and 
lessen any tendency to milk-fever or inflammation of the udder. If she is 
poor, she should be dry for more than a month. During such a period food 
should be given oftener, but in less quantities. For a few days before calving 
one will notice quick breath, groans, uneasiness, rapid enlargement of the 
udder and dropping of the belly, and a discharge of mucus from the vagina. 
Restlessness increases, the cow often lying down, when pains will come on, 
with the expulsion of the calf. The after-birth generally comes away at 
once, but may remain several hours and threaten serious results. As a prep- 
aration for delivery, feed sparingly of mashes and hay for a few days, and 
frequently strip the udder if it is swollen and hard. Afford a roomy, well- 
ventilated place, without superfluous litter, but with comfortable bedding. If 
any serious consequences are feared, put adequate covering on the animal 
imMnediately after delivery. If fever ensues after calving, give aconite. 
Pulsatilla should be administered two or three times a day if the after-birth 
does not come away soon after delivery. If >it remains in spite of the Pul- 
satilla, call a veterinary surgeon to remove it. 

" Flooding " is a term applied to an unusually full discharge of blood 
after delivery. It is caused by a lack of proper contraction of the womb, 
or by injuries sustained in assisting a difficult parturition. If at this time 
there be a violent straining and great flow of blood, give secale every 
three or four hours, and pulsatilla may be alternated with it. If an injury 
has been the cause, give arnica three or four times daily. Keep the cow 
quiet, with the hind quarters elevated a little. Inject cold water into the 
rectum, and for a short time apply at intervals to the loins some cloths 
soaked in cold water. This will contract the blood-vessels. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB. 

Inflammation of the womb is caused by difficult labor in calving, and 
by cold. 

Symptoms. — Discharge of mucus and blood; fruitless efforts to pass 
urine; swollen bearings; loss of appetite; cold feet and ears. 

Treatment. — At first bryonia alternated with aconite every two 
to four hours will be beneficial. After the fever, if swelling of the bear- 
ings and straining remain, give sabina. For difficult urination and pain in 



THE OX — THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 767 

the belly, give belladonna, alone or alternated with bryonia. Insure quiet- 
ness and a mild diet and protect the animal against colds. 

FALL OF THE WOMB. 

This is caused by very difficult calving, or the work of an assistant 
during the same. The womb protrudes from the vagina more or less, be- 
ing of a deep-red appearance. 

Treatment. — Treatment should be given at once. Place the hind 
feet a little higher than the fore ones. If the womb has become dry, cold 
or dirty, gently and thoroughly wash it with tepid milk. Wrap the hand 
with a soft cloth soaked in tepid milk and carefully turn the womb back to 
its place, as in turning a glove-finger that has been turned inside out. This 
operation is more safely done by a surgeon, and he may find it necessary to 
use some appliance to prevent further protrusion. If the trouble is caused 
by the cow's efforts to expel the afterbirth, give pulsatilla and sepia. For 
much straining, secale should be given every three or four hours. 

MISCARRIAGE.— ABORTION. 

This occurs between the fifth and eighth months of pregnancy, chiefly 
in over-fed cows. In a given district abortion in one cow may be followed 
by the same in others, and one occurrence is likely to lead to another in 
the same cow in about a year. Its chief causes are bad or frozen food, im- 
pure water and air, confinement in dark, unhealthy stables, violent exertion, 
injuries to the belly, and sexual intercourse during pregnancy; the smell 
from a cow that has recently suffered a miscarriage is liable to induce it in 
others that are pregnant. 

Symptoms. — Threatening symptoms are aversion to food, restlessness 
and anxiety, low spirits, lowing, sudden stoppage of milk, offensive mu- 
cous discharge from the vagina, collapse of the belly and stoppage of the 
motions of the calf in the womb. 

Treatment. — Arnica, repeated according to the urgency of the case, 
will often avert a miscarriage if used immediately when an injury has been 
sustained during pregnancy. After the symptoms have begun, secale is an 
admirable remedy, as it aids the labor. For chills, give arnica every hour 
until they disappear. If strains or over-exertion threaten miscarriage, 
give rhus instead of arnica. Guard against recurrences. After a mis- 
carriage has begun it is useless to try to check it. To prevent it, avoid the 
causes mentioned above, and the cautions given upon Abortion in mares 
on a preceding page. 



768 _ COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER. 

Inflammation of the udder after calving is caused by exposure to bad 
weather, injuries from lying on the udder, or failure to empty the udder. 
It occurs chiefly after the first calving. 

Symptoms. — Hot, painful, swollen udder, with hard, internal lumps; 
fever; full, rapid pulse; mouth and horns hot; quickened breath; constipa- 
tion. The symptoms afterward become worse, there being loss of cud and 
appetite; abscesses in the lumps, perhaps bursting and discharging blood 
and pus; deep, malignant ulcers; poor and diminished milk; perhaps 
hardening of the udder. 

Treatment. — Give aconite for fever, a few doses at the beginning. 
At the first, bryonia and belladonna in alternation will often effect an im- 
provement. Hepar should be given if the swellings are suppurating. 
Phosphorus and silicea are also valuable, in alternation, for the same symp- 
tom. For chronic enlargement of the udder, rub once or twice daily with 
one drachm of iodine in two ounces of lard. Strip the udder often and 
then bathe it with warm water and soap. 

SORE TEATS. 

The teats become sore from various causes, especially in young cows 
after calving. External injuries, warts and constitutional disorder induce the 
trouble. 

Symptoms. — After calving, tender and inflamed, scaled or cracked 
teats, a bloody discharge mixing with the milk as well as coming from 
the sores; pain in milking; kicking which may grow to a settled habit; 
diminished milk; sore udder; perhaps inflammation of the udder (see last 
disease above). 

Treatment. — If warts be the cause, pluck or cut them away, and 
dress the wound and sores once or twice daily with a lotion of four grains 
of arsenicum to four ounces of pure boiled or distilled water. If soreness 
results from cracks, apply two or three times daily a preparation composed 
of twenty drops of arnica and one ounce of lard. If injuries be the cause, 
use an arnica-lotion twice a day. Calendula-lotion applied to the sores 
several times daily is a good treatment for sore teats in general. If ulcers 
are forming, aid the process by giving hepar. When the ulcers break, give 
silicea every four hours to complete the cure. Before making an applica- 
tion, and before milking, cleanse the teats well, and foment them with 
warm water to soften them. A tube gently inserted up the teat at milk- 
ing-time will draw off the milk, avert kicking, and aid the healing. 



THE OX THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 769 

COW-POX. 

Cow-pox is a pustular eruption on the udder, and is caused by conta- 
gion, and perhaps by bad food and atmospheric influences. 

Symptoms.-— Fever; diminished or suppressed milk; appetite less, and 
chewing of the cud stopped; large, round eruptions on the teats, depressed 
or concave at the center, containing at first a thin, serous fluid, which grows 
thick and yellowish, and oozes out; the ulcers being broken, they leave 
deep-seated, malignant ulcers; if they be not broken, a scab forms, which 
leaves sound skin underneath, when it falls off. (It is an interesting fact that 
the virus of cow-pox, taken from the teats, is that with which the human 
family is inoculated in vaccination as a preventive of small-pox.) 

Another form, known as " spurious cow-pox," is indicated by erup- 
tions of varying size and shape, the top swollen and containing a thick, 
yellowish matter (not concave as noticed above), forming a crust which, if 
not disturbed, will fall off and leave sound skin, but will leave many small, 
ulcerative sores, which are hard to heal if removed in milking or by other 
mechanical agencies. 

Treatment. — One or two doses of sulphur daily will usually suffice. 
If ulceration occurs, give mercurius or hepar. If the sores run together 
and irritate the surface, give arsenicum twice daily. Apply a calendula- 
lotion to the sores. 

GONORRHCEA. 

This is a disease of the mucous membranes of the canals through which 
the urine passes. It occurs in either sex and is caused by excessive sexual 
intercourse, or diseased organs during the intercourse, and by lack of 
cleanliness. 

Symptoms. — In the bull the sheath is red and swollen. In the cow, 
the tail is shaken and moved aside; the bearings swollen, sore and internally 
red. In either sex, there is a constant discharge of matter from the organ, 
with frequent, small and painful discharges of urine. 

Treatment. — Usually aconite will be sufficient if given at the be- 
ginning, when there is much inflammation, with difficulty and pain in 
urinating. Give four Or five doses three hours apart. If, after the signs of 
inflammation have abated, the difficult urination continues, especially if the 
urine be greenish and tinged with blood, give cantharis every three hours, 
or every six hours with aconite midway between the doses. After a few 
doses of the above remedies, especially if much soreness exists, with thick, 
white, greenish or yellowish discharges, give two grains of mercurius three 
49 



770 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

times a day. Iodine is useful, ten drops three times daily. A dilution of 
thirty drops of iodine to one pint of water may be good (for the cow) as 
an injection into the vagina two or three times a day. When recovery be- 
gins, it may be completed and the system restored by giving sulphur once 
or twice a day for a week. Wash the parts often with cold water, and in- 
ject the same into the rectum and vagina. Allow no exercise of the sexual 
instinct until a full and complete cure is effected. 

CASTRATION. 

Castration of calves should take place from the sixth week to the fifth 
month, according to the animal's strength, the weather, and the season. 
The operation in calves is seldom attended with serious results, though 
proper precautions should be taken to prevent undue irritation or inflam- 
mation. Medical treatment is generally unnecessary. For requisite infor- 
mation on the methods of performing the operation the reader should con- 
sult a competent operator. Suitable directions upon the care of the animal 
after castration, and upon the required treatment of resulting derangements, 
are given in the article on Castration in the Horse. 




CHAPTER VI. 
MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 

SIMPLE FEVER. 

-Jjj^tiATTLE are particularly subject to a simple type of fever, especially 
Jjfc when kept on low, marshy lands. It sometimes develops into a 
AxEvll typhoid or intermittent form. Its causes are exposure to damp 
%S?l and cold, miasma, exhalations from foul water that contains vege- 
table refuse and other influences of the kind. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; languor; thirst; heat of the body and base of 
the horns; quick and hard pulse; refusal of food; heaving of the flanks; 
more than normal pliability of the skin; the nose alternately moist and hot. 

Treatment. — Aconite is needed until the fever abates, a dose every 
four to six hours. If the appetite be poor after the fever subsides, give 
nux vomica two or three times a day. Keep the animal in a clean, roomy, 
well-ventilated place, free from excessive litter. Feed lightly on mild food, 
such as bran and oatmeal. Give a fair amount of cold water. 

INFLAMMATORY FEVER. 

Inflammatory fever often affects cattle in an epidemic form, especially 
those that are young, and is at times attended with great mortality. 

/Symptoms. — At first the symptoms of simple fever come on. Then 
the case is generally marked by lameness in one leg, usually a hind one, 
which is swollen; reluctance to move; eyes inflamed and protruding; 
tongue dry; nostrils expanded; muzzle dry; neck extended; breathing 
quick and labored, with occasional deep breaths; loss of appetite and cud. 
Later, the animal is seemingly unconscious, moans, gasps, stands still or 
staggers; loins tender and painful; swelling on the loins, back, and shoulders, 
which produce a crackling noise if pressed; weakness increases; the ani- 
mal falls; ulcers on different parts of the body; offensive discharges from 
the mouth and nose; dung very offensive, sometimes bloody; urine high- 
colored, bloody and offensive; death within twenty-four hours. 

771 



772 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Give aconite every hour, or oftener in very severe 
cases. If no improvement is seen, give this in alternation with belladonna. 
When the animal is growing better, increase the time between the doses. 
Though this disease usually ends fatally, these remedies should be given 
while the animal is kept in a comfortable place with plenty of clean, dry 
straw. If it improves, simple food may be given. To prevent the disease, 
do not allow cattle to go too freely upon rich pasture after being poorly fed. 
Impure water must be avoided during the disease, and even pure water 
allowed only in small quantities. 

TYPHUS FEVER. 

This frequently follows inflammatory fever, especially in adult animals, 
and occurs more often on low, marshy, malarial lands. It is sometimes 
epidemic and marked by great fatality. Predisposing causes are want of 
water, excessive work, foul stables, injurious plants, bad food, great heat 
after rains, and stings of insects. 

Symfito??is. — Loss of appetite and cud ; stupor and staggers ; eyes fixed 
but not red; horns, nose and ears rapidly alternate between heat and cold; 
the head hangs, or is carried up, and from side to side; moans; discharges 
of blood from the nose, and sticky saliva from the mouth; the urine is 
strong and high-colored, and the dung is in hard small lumps, or both may 
be stopped; coat rough, dull and staring; skin sometimes bound to the under 
tissues, sometimes separated by air, the hand passed along the back pro- 
ducing a peculiar rattle; cows give little or no milk from the commence- 
ment; ulcerating tumors often appear on the back, belly, limbs, sheath and 
udder; death often ensues very suddenly, though the disease may continue 
three or four days. During improvement, or after an apparent cure, a 
relapse may set in. Tumors may remain after danger is passed, as well as 
stoppage of milk, hardness and scantiness of dung, loss of appetite and 
cud, swelling of the teats, and air under the skin, but these may be 
corrected. 

Treatment. — For full, hard pulse, hot, dry skin, and great thirst, 
give aconite every hour or two for three or four doses. If to these symp- 
toms are added congestion of the head, wild expression, and sensitiveness 
to the light, give aconite and belladonna in alternation every two or three 
hours. If there be great loss of strength, trembling, much thirst, glass) 
eyes, hurried pulse, cold and swollen legs, scanty, or bloody urine, involun- 
tary passages of offensive dung, arsenicum is very valuable; give it every 
hour until improvement is noticed. This alone has effected cures. If 
great drowsiness remains after recovery, opium is needed. If the animal 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 773 

be furiously delirious, for treatment see Nervous Fever. Feed sparingly 
on light, wholesome food, keep the animal away from others, and before 
healthy cattle are admitted remove all refuse and disinfect the place with 
carbolic acid. 

NERVOUS FEVER. 

Nervous fever is sometimes epidemic and may become very destructive 
by contagion. 

Symptoms. — Dry tongue, mouth and nose; loss of appetite and thirst; 
weakness; convulsions, sometimes violent; the animal totters and falls; 
dung at first dry, but becomes soft; then food passes undigested; foul tongue; 
much disagreeable saliva in the mouth; fever increases at night; delirium. 

Treatment. — In abrupt cases, with decided fever, begin with aconite, 
at intervals of two to four hours. When the fever subsides somewhat 
and great excitability ensues, give belladonna. For furious delirium and 
involuntary passages of dung, alternate belladonna with hyoscyamus, or, if 
the animal be unconscious, with stramonium. When no specific remedy 
is indicated by the symptoms., or after the violent symptoms have subsided, 
leaving reduced muscular power, bryonia is advisable. Muriatic acid is 
required for great debility and dry mouth. For constipation with cold 
extremities, diarrhoea, or weakness after the disease is subdued veratrum 
is useful. Give the animal light, nutritious food, but sparingly, and provide 
a well-ventilated place, free from excitement. 

ANTHRAX.— SPLENIC FEVER. 

The term anthrax applies to a very infectious disease, known by differ- 
ent names, according to the type or stage. It generally occurs in hot 
weather, arising in rich, damp places, especially those in which there are 
much decaying vegetable matter and excessive moisture, as on dried-up 
lakes, ponds or water-courses, or on newly-turned ground where rich pas- 
tures have been. It is caused by any form of contagion which favors the 
transmission of the poison from a diseased to a healthy animal, as by food 
and drink, though it is seldom or never communicated by the air. Animals 
in poor condition put on rich food, or well-fed ones which have insufficient 
exercise, are more liable to its attacks. The virus is most potent in an 
animal that is yet alive or has just died or been killed, though it will remain 
active for many weeks in any weather and atmospheric conditions. It is 
susceptible of transmission to man as well as to any of the domestic animals, 
being more often taken by contact of the virus with a break or abrasion of 



774 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the skin. If the flesh of an infected animal be eaten by man or beast, the 
disease is readily transmitted. We thus see the urgency of care in 
handling animals that are afflicted with it. 

Symptoms. — Perhaps the most notable characteristic of the disease is. 
its rapid progress. It may be of an apoplectic form, the animal suddenly 
falling and being soon seized with convulsions, the pulse and breath being 
quickened, the skin turning blue, and death ensuing in an hour or less, in 
some cases before it is learned that the animal is sick. The disease may be 
characterized by external swellings, or not. If so marked, it is sometimes 
known as blain, gloss-anthrax, black-tongue, black-quarter, bloody murrain 
and the like (which are elsewhere spoken of in separate articles); but these 
types are not now under consideration, the present discussion having refer- 
ence to the form known as splenic fever, so named from the enlargement of 
the spleen, though the carbuncles which occasionally form show its relation 
to the kinds just alluded to. Distinguishing symptoms of this are an alter- 
nation of high and low temperature, this going up to 105 or no ; purple 
mucous membrane; loss of milk in cows; increased thirst; very rapid pulse; 
then perhaps an interval of apparent health, followed by spasm of the 
muscles of the back and loins, with loss of power of motion in the limbs 
and trunk; violent convulsions, peculiarly affecting the eyes; diminished 
temperature; seeming unconsciousness; mucous and bloody discharges 
from the nose, mouth and rectum ; possibly formation of carbuncles during 
the disease on different parts of the body. 

Treatment. — In the most severe cases medicine will be of little avail. 
Give ten drops of aconite every ten or fifteen minutes if the feverish symp- 
toms are marked. For sudden falling and other apoplectic signs, alter- 
nate belladonna with aconite, every fifteen, twenty or thirty minutes, accord- 
ing to the severity of the symptoms. Nux vomica and opium are also good 
when such symptoms are present. Sixty drops of nitro-muriatic acid, two 
drachms of chlorate of potassa, and three grains of bichromate of potassa, a 
dose twice a day, is very highly recommended by a leading author. Some 
of these remedies will often be found helpful, though the rapid progress of 
the scourge does not often admit of successful treatment of the first that 
are attacked in a herd. If carbuncles form, sulphur, arsenicum and raer- 
curius will be found valuable internal remedies, and a wash of dilute car- 
bolic acid should be applied two or three times a day if the carbuncles 
gather and break. 

When an animal is supposed to be infected, give solid, nutritious food, 
provide a comfortable stable that will furnish an abundance of pure air, and 
give ten drops of arsenicum night and morning. Before healthy cattle 
come near the quarters in which the sick have been kept, deeply bury the 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AXD INJURIES. 775 

dead, and thoroughly disinfect the stable or other quarters with carbolic 
acid. The attendant must exercise care about letting any of the discharges 
come in contact with breaks in his skin, or with the mucous membranes. 

MILK-FEVER. 

Milk-fever is a frequent and fatal disease which may occur within a day 
after calving, though there is danger of it until the fourth day has passed. 
It is caused by difficult labor in calving; high stall-feeding; excessive or 
too rich food after calving, insufficient exercise, cold and wet, summer heat, 
over-driving, and bad treatment. One attack predisposes to another. It is 
more likely to attack fat cows that give much milk. 

Symptoms. — Listlessness; trembling; great thirst; loss of cud and im- 
paired or lost appetite; breathing and pulse quickened; heaving flanks; 
nose dry and hot, and the horns hot; urine scanty; dung hard and lumpy. 
Later the eyes are bright, staring, of a leaden color or streaked with red; 
eyeballs prominent; breathing difficult, and pulse not so rapid; the cow 
shifts the weight from one hind leg to the other; inclination to lie down 
checked by swollen belly; udder hard and swollen, furnishing no milk, the 
animal totters, falls, rises again and falls, finally with inability to rise; in 
some cases she lies quiet, resting the head on the ground, or turning it to- 
ward her side as if in great pain; eyes dim, wild and fixed; lost sight; in 
other cases she is restless, foams at the mouth, and the paunch is much 
swollen; death in a few hours, or possibly two days. 

Treatment. — At first, if fever is prominent, with quick pulse and 
breathing, and scanty urine and loss of milk be noticed, give five drops of 
aconite every half-hour for four or five doses. After those doses, if there 
be a furious and anxious expression, protruding eyeballs, general restless- 
ness, hot horns, dry, hot nose, and painful swelling of the belly, give aconite 
and belladonna in alternation every two hours, or oftenerif the case be very 
severe. If the disease advances after several doses of the first remedy, 
there being greatly swollen paunch and udder, cold extremities, difficult 
breathing, slow pulse, and intense pain, give twenty drops of ammonium 
causticum in a wineglassful of water every fifteen or twenty minutes until 
the swelling subsides. When the swelling has been reduced and the cow 
is sleepy, insensible to pain, unable to hold the head up from the ground 
when down, and has glassy eyes and open mouth, with loss of power of 
seeing and swallowing, give twenty drops of arsenicum, at intervals of from 
fifteen to sixty minutes according to the severity of the symptoms. Opium 
may be alternated with the arsenicum if the cow is utterly prostrated, with 
cold surface, glassy eyes, and weak pulse. Give mix vomica three times 



776 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

daily when the cow has partially recovered, but is still unable to rise. After 
apparent recovery a relapse may be averted by giving sulphur several days 
an hour before the morning feed. To restore the milk give chamomilla. 

Before calving, especially in hot weather, give only very easily digest- 
ible food, and closely watch the cow to detect any symptoms of the disease after 
calving. Upon the appearance of the disease put her in a roomy stall apart 
from other animals, free from excitement, with plenty of fresh air and clean, 
dry straw. Put her on a level when lying down, the feet being in the 
natural position of a cow lying down, bolstering her with bundles of straw, 
her head and neck being on a gentle incline. Remove at once all dung that 
is evacuated. Frequently remove the milk from the udder. If the urine 
does not pass, draw it with a catheter two or three times daily. If the cow 
can not shift herself, she must be turned over several times a day, or she 
will grow worse and suffocate. Food must not bo forced upon her in any 
form, but if she can swallow, a small quantity of tepid water may be gently 
given now and then. Cold water dashed upon the spine and immediately 
wiped off is of great benefit, though chills and colds must be avoided. 

BLACK QUARTER.— BLOODY MURRAIN. 

Black quarter affects young cattle chiefly, and is quite common. 

Symptotns. — When fully developed, there will be high fever; quick, 
full pulse; outstretched head; hot mouth; quickened breathing; loss of ap- 
petite; blood-shot eyes; moaning; lameness, usually in one leg; painful 
swelling about the quarters or joints; tender back and loins; swellings on the 
back, shoulders and loins; crackling on pressure of the swellings; patches 
of skin hard, dry, and then sloughing, leaving unhealthy sores with an offen- 
sive discharge; mouth and tongue ulcerated; offensive fluid drops from the 
nose and mouth; diarrhoea; exhaustion; death. 

Treatment. — Medicine is generally of little avail, but the following 
remedies may relieve and possibly cure. For the early stages, with quick, 
heaving breath, expanded nostrils, and dry muzzle, give ammonium caus- 
ticum; mix one part of the strong liquor in seven of water and give ten 
drops of the dilution every half-hour. When local swellings appear, alter- 
nate rhus and belladonna, ten drops every one or two hours. Rhus and 
mercurius in alternation are serviceable for severely ulcerated tongue and 
mouth; free discharge of saliva, or of bloody fluid, given the same as rhus 
and belladonna. For prostration, purging, pain in the bowels, and bloody fluid 
from the mouth, give arsenicum. Apply carbolic acid, one part of strong 
acid to twenty of water, to all swellings, sores and ulcers. The patient 
should be isolated from the herd. 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 777 

EUROPEAN RINDERPEST, OR CATTLE PLAGUE. 

This disorder, known also as Russian Cattle Plague, is a contagious 
fever which is communicable to other animals than cattle. It is marked by 
a general congestion of the mucous membranes and an excessive growth of 
the outer layers of the cells of the skin and membranes, with a shedding of 
the latter. It is transmitted only by contagion, but very readily in that way. 
Its violent symptoms may occur in a day after its germs have been 
communicated, though it may not become fully established for ten days. 

Symptoms. — At first, irregular but rather an increased appetite; dull- 
ness; tottering; occasionally the animal bellows, stamps, and is vicious; hang- 
ing head and ears; chewing slow and irregular; upon rising the animal 
yawns, humps the back and draws the feet under the body, but does not 
stretch itself, as is usual in healthy cattle; trembling; bristling hair; eyes 
blood-shot; eyelids swollen; husky cough; dry, scanty dung, and scanty urine, 
both passed with difficulty; the animal is tender; pressure on the loins causes 
dropping of the back. After the third day and as early as the eighth, 
twitching; bristling hair; trembling limbs; the ears hang and are cold or 
hot, as are also the roots of the horns; mouth red and hot inside; gums 
swollen and spongy, sometimes spotted with red; loins more sensitive; skin 
very tight; violent, hollow, convulsive cough; pulse at the jaw weak, rising 
to 90 or 100; dung scanty and hard, sometimes nearly black; urine light- 
colored; wind-puffs on the back and loins; fever worse in the evening; in 
cows, the milk is stopped and the udder shriveled; tail extended straight or 
strikes the side; the animal looks at the side; if vigorous, he is violent; if 
feeble, he shakes his head and grinds his teeth. About the tenth day there 
are great weakness and thinness; running eyes, the tears forming a crust; 
white, sticky discharge from the nose; tongue relaxed; loss of cud; dung 
watery, and forcibly discharged; hind parts greatly swollen; breath very 
offensive. Four or five days later one will see a gray, corrosive and offen- 
sive discharge from the nose, eyes and mouth; skin of the mouth dried up, 
that of the body peeling off; cold extremities; quickened breath; dung 
watery and bloody, passing involuntarily and nearly constantl}' ; general 
stupor and loss of feeling; death following three days later; or the symp- 
toms in favorable cases decline daily, recovery not being complete, however, 
for several weeks. 

' Treatment. — Give bryonia for heat, or coldness with shivering; 
drowsiness; loss of appetite and strength; constipation; short, difficult 
breathing; loose cough; offensive breath. Mercurius is needed for moist 
tongue; heat; thirst; red eyes; discharge from nose and eyes; swollen and 
sore nose; pain in belly; difficult swallowing; discharges from the bowels 



77> COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

watery, slimy and bloody, with straining. Arsenicum will be particularly 
good for a mucous, irritating discharge from the nose; alternately hot and 
cold surface; shivering; thirst; depressed spirits and strength; foul breath; 
swollen eyelids; feeble pulse; profuse diarrhcea, with offensive smell; gen- 
eral prostration of vital functions. This may also be tried as a preventive. 
When the lungs are much involved, and there is not the prostration which 
requires arsenicum, give phosphoric acid, alone, or still better, in alternation 
with belladonna. Rhus is needed for red and swollen skin, especially in the 
legs; stiffness; itching eruptions, which spread and grow moist; loss of 
power in the limbs; scurfy and grooved skin. 

AMERICAN RINDERPEST. OR TEXAS CATTLE DISEASE. 

This is an exceedingly infectious and contagious disease. It mav be 
taken from cattle being with those infected, by contact with their litter and 
dung, or by walking on the same roads, and its virus may remain in a place 
for weeks or months. Cattle have died within four or five days after an 
exposure to the infection, but the time may be longer; indeed, the sickness 
may not show itself for a number of days. 

Symftoins. — A suspicion of the presence of the disease may lead to an 
examination with the thermometer, and the temperature will be found 
to be several degrees above the normal if the disorder exists. The first 
patent symptoms are trembling, disinclination to move, unsteady gait, skin 
alternately hot and cold, drooping head, appetite and thirst apparently 
normal, and the milk diminished in cows. About the fifth day there 
will be noticed shrunken sides; quickened breath; inability to rise or 
stand; continued efforts to urinate, resulting in small, bloody discharges; 
the dung passes hard and dry, with straining; the milk in cows grows less, 
not stopping wholly, and is of a thick, creamv consistence. Still later there 
will be drooping ears; base of the horns hot; eyes dull and staring; trem- 
bling in the flanks; listlessness; feet braced under the body and the back 
arched; head and ears more drooping than before; dung hard, covered 
with mucus and blood, and passed with effort; perhaps diarrhcea, and 
frequent discharges of dark, bloodv urine; increased breathing, pulse and 
temperature; weakness; the animal falls, is unable to rise, and death ensues. 
Calves are seldom attacked, if ever. Milch cows are specially liable to the 
disease, and abortion is much more apt to occur during the disorder. 

Treatment. — It is not advisable to resort to treatment, the destruc- 
tion of the animal being best. Iodide of potassa and chlorate of pc : 
may be used with advantage, if any treatment is undertaken. Carbolic 
acid surely has some efficacy. The pure article or very strong solution 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 779 

may be put in a large open vessel and be held under the nose so the animal 
will inhale it. Small doses of the same acid diluted may be given in- 
ternally, especially in severe cases, and will be very beneficial. At the 
same time the heavy oil of tar should be sprinkled freely about the yard, 
as it contains a large percentage of carbolic acid. Give a low diet of soft 
mashes throughout, and return slowly to the regular food when recovery 
begins. Insure plenty of outdoor air, salt and water. For other remedies and 
the general care for diseased animals, one may select from those given 
under European Rinderpest, according to the symptoms, though it is 
believed that carbolic acid is the best of all. As a preventive, the heavy 
oil of tar or carbolic acid, copiously sprinkled around the yard or stable, 
will usually prove very beneficial, and such precaution should be taken 
whenever it is thought that cattle have been exposed to the disease. 

This dreadful malady originates chiefly in the district near the Gulf of 
Mexico and is communicated to Northern cattle by herds which are brought 
from those sections. It has been known in the North as a very virulent and 
fatal disease from the time that cattle were first brought from those gulf- 
districts. Confusion has often arisen because of the various names by which 
it has been known at different times, as bloody murrain, yellow murrain, 
dry murrain, distemper, black-water, red-water, American cattle plague or 
rinderpest, gastric, splenic, period, acclimating, Spanish and Texas fever. 
Indeed, many cases of loss by death have been attributed to murrain and 
other disorders when Texas fever has been the real trouble, and this confu- 
sion calls for a special regard to the following considerations: First, infected 
cattle from the South may show no patent signs of the disease and yet 
healthy cattle will become most fatally infected by contact with the yards, 
fields, bedding, cars, troughs, scales, etc., which the diseased cattle have 
visited; seco?id, Northern cattle are carelessly purchased in the markets, in 
warm weather, after they have been exposed therein to the virus left by the 
Southern cattle, and are then taken to farms for grazing, only to be attacked 
with Texas fever, and then die with what the farmer will mistake for another 
disease; but, third, while infected Southern cattle will communicate the 
scourge, with most disastrous results, to Northern cattle, the latter, when so 
infected, do not transmit it to others — that is, the virus loses its potency in 
one remove from the Southern cattle. Hence, it is never safe to buy cattle in 
the market for grazing during warm weather, for one can not be sure that 
they have not been exposed to the poison of infected animals from the South. 
A hard freeze will render the virus harmless, and any inclosures, roads, 
cars, etc., in which infected Southern cattle have been can not be used with 
impunity until after the following winter. They should, so far as possible, 
be scrupulously closed against other cattle until that time, and it is better to 



780 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

scatter in them the heavy oil of tar or strong carbolic acid. Though the 
disease generally destroys those which are attacked, we can fortunately pre- 
vent its spread by excluding from our herds the cattle from the districts in 
which it originates. If it does invade Northern cattle, they will not transmit 
it to their mates, .and their loss will be the end of the trouble, provided no 
infected Southern cattle are in the herd. 

RHEUMATISM. 

Rheumatism is caused by wet and changeable weather, by exposure 
to cold when warm, or when weak from some illness, by damp, marshy 
pastures, and the like. 

Symptoms. —The acute form is marked by fever; affected parts hot, 
painful and swollen; soon lameness; dry skin; constipation; reluctance to 
move and inclination to lie down; diminished appetite; listlessness; some- 
times tremors and adhering skin; lessened or wholly suppressed milk in 
cows. In the chronic form, which is more obstinate, there will be an 
absence of fever; parts affected painful, but not so hot and stiff as in the 
acute type; nearly all parts affected, but mainly the joints, the disorder 
shifting around. 

Treatment. — Aconite is always best for the first, and is indicated by 
fever, cases resulting from cold, and irregular, jerking pulse, five to ten drops 
every two to four hours being suitable as the dose. Bryonia is needed 
after the fever; or, if the fever has not wholly disappeared, give this and 
aconite in alternation, if the swelling (especially in the legs, shoulders and 
sides) is not confined to the joints and is not particularly tender; and if the 
animal lies down, and the pain is worse by slight motion. Arnica is es- 
pecially good for cases resulting from over-exertion; for swelling and pain 
confined mainly to the joints; also for tenderness of the skin. Arsenicum 
is valuable if the feet be tender, and the animal trembling and reduced in 
condition; and it is also useful for cold, swollen joints, sweats, alternating 
heat and chilliness, and heart-complications. Gelseminum is invaluable 
for terrible pain; aggravated symptoms at night; loss of the use of the 
affected parts; swellings, shifting from joint to joint; legs affected and 
marked by coldness and paralytic weakness. Rhus is needed if stiffness 
and lameness are more noticeable when the animal begins to move after 
rest. Should the above remedies fail or give only partial relief, give sul- 
phur a few days, returning afterward to the remedy especially indicated; 
it is also good to prevent a relapse in changeable weather. Give plenty 
of clean, dry straw, in a warm place. Rub swollen joints once or twice 
daily. In chronic forms the cattle should never be exposed to cold or 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 781 

stormy weather, and if turned out in the day in cold weather, should be 
comfortably stabled when brought in. Give a diet of milk, or milk-and- 
water gruel, with carrots or clover. Refer to the treatment of Rheuma- 
tism in the Horse for local applications and coverings. 

LUMBAGO. 

This is a rheumatism in the muscles of the loins which is caused by 
wet or cold, and attended by lameness, first in one leg and then in another, 
the animal walking stiffly and painfully, and evincing tenderness in the loins. 

Treatment. — Treat as under the above article on Rheumatism. 
Keep the animal comfortable, covering the loins with woolen blankets. 

DROPSY. 

This consists in a collection of water in some part of the body, caused 
by bad feed, poorly-kept stables, neglected or mismanaged colds or other 
diseases, and like influences. 

Sy?nptoms. — If it be general dropsy, swelling begins at the feet and 
extends to all parts of the body, and, if they be pressed with the fingers, 
the indentation remains a short time. If it be dropsy of the chest, there 
are feebleness and langour, very difficult breathing, feeble and irregular 
pulse, and fore legs standing apart, the motion of the water being heard 
upon striking the chest. If the abdomen be especially affected, it is dis- 
tended and the motion of the water can be heard, when the animal is lying 
on one side, by striking on the opposite side. Occasionally draught-oxen 
are troubled with dropsy of the legs. In addition to the symptoms just 
named under the special forms, there are generally dry skin; much thirst; 
poor digestion and appetite; scanty urine; paleness of the eyes and inside 
of the mouth; weakness; loss of strength; death in some cases. 

Treatment. — Immediately treat the first symptoms, for the disease 
is often curable only at this stage. Be careful not to mistake the swelling 
which is incident to general dropsy for an improvement in the flesh. For 
remedies and general care refer to the article on dropsy in the Horse. 

FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE. 

This is a contagious fever that is marked by ulcers and vesicles about 
the mouth and hoofs, and may be communicated to man bj r the milk of affected 
cows. It is epidemic, spreads by contagion, and animals are predisposed to 
it by poor food and housing, cold and wet, draughts of cold air, filth, and 



782 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

reduced condition. The virus is potent for months and may be communi- 
cated by the clothes of attendants, by food, manure, places trodden by in- 
fected animals, the milk (to calves), and other agencies. Any animal, in- 
cluding dogs, cats, swine and poultry, may be affected by the virus which is 
in the discharges and milk. 

Sy7?iptoms. — Chill ; dullness ; stupidity ; eruptions on the hoof, mouth and 
teats; diarrhoea; dim, watery, blood-shot eyes; alternate heat and coldness 
of horns, ears and nose: arched back; diminished chewing of cud; milk 
decreased, yellow and thick; udder swollen, hot and tender; hair staring 
and harsh; pulse somewhat quickened; temperature increased, perhaps to 
io^ c or io_}. c ; flow of saliva; pain in the mouth, with suppressed eating. 
The vesicles in the mouth are first small and red, then whitish-yellow, as 
large as a bean, and transparent, then filled with a pus-like rluicl, bursting 
in about eighteen hours, and leaving sores which may unite and form 
deep, irregular ulcers; the nasal membrane may be affected. The vesicles 
on the feet first appear on the crown of the hoof and in the cleft, soon 
bursting; they cause pain, swellings, lameness or inability to stand, and the 
bones may be diseased and induce serious disorders. The vesicles on the 
teats are similar to those on the mouth, with soreness and swelling, and 
upon drying leave scales. Occasionally vesicles appear in the nostrils and 
on the muzzle, eyes and vagina. In severe cases, high fever ensues, ulcera- 
tion increases, the animal is exhausted, loses flesh, discharges blood y mucus 
from the mouth and offensive matter from the nose; swollen face; foul 
breath; small, rapid pulse; grunting; quick breathing; belly and legs drop- 
sical; diarrhoea; hoofs drop off in pieces; death in nine or ten days. In 
favorable cases, the fever subsides in about four days, and the symptoms 
decline for a week or two, when the animal recovers. 

In milch cows the case is often complicated by the vesicles bursting 
from pressure in milking, when ulcers form, the cow resists milking and 
holds back the milk, thus promoting inflammation and perhaps hardening 
of the udder; or parts of the udder may fall away in consequence of in- 
ternal ulcers, making the cow comparatively useless for milk. In such 
cases abortion is frequent. Infected calves usually die from the inflamma- 
tion of the stomach and intestines which supervenes. 

Treatment. — Mercurius should be given for heat, redness, dryness 
and swelling throughout the mouth; red spots on the mucous membrane of 
the mouth, which become ulcerous, burst, and unite; swollen tongue and 
face; abscesses in other parts; slimy, stringy, bloody, offensive discharge 
from the mouth. It is also useful in aiding the formation of matter and 
reducing hardness. Antimonium tartaricum is serviceable in alternation 
with mercurius. Arsenicum may be given at the beginning for harsh, 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 783 

staring hair, cold legs and ears, and indifference. Dilute hydrastis is in- 
valuable as an application to the sores, and for soothing and healing the 
mouth. Antimonium muriaticum is often beneficial when applied be- 
tween the parts of the hoofs, if the soreness is excessive. Afford a quiet 
stall; plenty of straw, and fresh air of a moderate temperature; all the 
water that is wanted; soft food, such as milk, boiled grain, meal and water, 
bran, and mashes. Give only pure water for the drink. Bathe the feet 
occasionally with warm water. If the udder is affected, strip out the milk 
frequently. As a preventive, avoid the infection or contagion, if possible; 
observe absolute cleanliness; disinfect with carbolic acid, chloride of lime 
or sulphurous acid all places where the cattle stay, and even then such 
places should be closed against other animals for a long time. A diseased 
animal should not be removed from its place of sickness for at least two 
weeks after full recovery, and then only after it has been thoroughly treated 
with a wash of carbolic acid. The milk should be buried deeply. Though it 
may do no harm to feed it to the pigs after it has been boiled, it is better to 
bury it. Take great pains to keep the virus out of the bodies of attendants. 
Bury or burn the dead. If other animals are allowed to eat the flesh of 
such patients they will contract the same or a similar disease. 

FOOT-FOUNDER. 

This disorder is marked by inflammatory fever; loss of appetite and 
spirits; dry, hot mouth ; slow and infrequent chewing of the cud; high- 
colored urine; hard dung; poor and scanty milk. It is uncommon among 
cattle. For fuller particulars, see the corresponding disease in the Horse. 

FOOT-ROT. 

This is caused by injuries from blows; gravel between the parts of the 
hoof, as well as thorns and any sharp body; moist soils; long walks on 
rough roads. 

Symptoms. — Sudden lameness; hoof hot, swollen, and tender on 
pressure, especially about the crown; pus forms, if the trouble is not ar- 
rested, passes upward, and escapes from the top of the hoof, the horny 
crust falling off. 

Treatment. — Put the animal on dry, soft litter. If injuries by 
blows or long walks be the cause, apply to the foot a bran-poultice, mix- 
ing in a little arnica-lotion. If pus forms, open the gathering with a lancet 
when it has pointed, and dress with calendula-lotion. If there is an un- 
healthy discharge and slow healing, apply carbolic-acid lotion. 



784 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

SWOLLEN JOINTS. 

For swollen foot, caused by injury, apply arnica externally and give it 
internally; for that resulting from cold, use dulcamara; for cases arising 
from dropsy, give china and arsenicum; for that caused by movement, but 
relieved by rest, give rhus; if the sole be hot, use squilla; if the general 
swelling of the foot be hot and rather hard, bryonia; if the swelling 
be near the fetlock, thuja. 

If the thigh be swollen from a bruise, use arnica externally and inter- 
nally; if the swelling is hot and hard, give bryonia; if damp and cold, give 
arsenicum and china, followed by sulphur. 

For swollen knee, caused by a bruise, use arnica internally and exter- 
nally; if the swelling be old and painful, china; if not painful, pulsatilla. 

DISEASE OF THE TAIL. 

Occasionally the hair falls from the tail, matter comes from the end, 
and ulcers form and involve the bone, causing parts of the tail to fall off. 
This is generally fatal, though arsenicum, mercurius and sulphur may be 
serviceable. Sulphurous-acid lotiow may be applied to the diseased parts. 

WATER ON THE BRAIN— HYDROCEPHALUS. 

Water on the brain of a calf causes enlargement of the head and 
symptoms similar to those of apoplexy (see Apoplexy), except that its 
symptoms are slow and gradual, while those of apoplexy are rapid and 
sudden. Remedies may be selected from those given on Apoplexy in the 
Horse. 

INSECTS IN THE HEAD. 

Symptoms. — Increased heat of the ears and roots of the horns; dry 
muzzle ; quick, small, full pulse ; little appetite ; absence of the cud ; staring 
coat; dullness; seeming lack of consciousness; loss of flesh; pain; listless- 
ness; giddiness; falls; head fixed on one side, or turned from one side to the 
other; unsteady movements; rapid turning around in one place, followed 
by falling, and then a repetition of the same. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna for dullness followed by violent or 
unsteady movements, and cantharis for frequent changes of the body and 
of the head. Graphites may be useful for listlessness, with drooping head 
and distressed manner. Yet medical treatment can be of little avail. 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 785 

INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 

This affection of the eyes is caused by violence from a blow; irritating 
matter in the eye, as dirt or hay seed; cold; sudden changes of temperature; 
and it may be inherited. 

Symptoms. — Dull, watery, closed eye; corner red or swollen; mem- 
brane attached to the eyeballs streaked with blood-vessels; eyelids hot, 
swollen and tender, afterward glued together ; sometimes dilated pupils; tears. 

Treatment. — Cases resulting from violence should be treated with 
doses of arnica and conium ; some cases require an internal and external use of 
euphrasia, with doses of belladonna and cannabis. If the presence of foreign 
matters be the cause, remove them and use arnica and conium internally 
and externally. If a cold causes the disorder, give camphor, bryonia and 
euphrasia; belladonna is also to be used for scalding tears, enlarged pupils 
and marked redness. If eruptions about the mouth, and swollen tongue and 
throat appear, as they do among young cattle on wet lands, and if slight 
ulcers appear on the front of the eyeball, give sulphur and remove the 
animal to a comfortable stable or shed. If the disease is hereditary, blind- 
ness will most likely result eventually. In these cases the animal enjoys 
apparent recovery at intervals, then suffers as before, though the inflamma- 
tion may shift from one eye to the other, and a cure is at least doubtful. 
Refer to the remarks on Inflammation of the Eye in the Horse. 

ULCERATED OR SWOLLEN EYELIDS. 

These frequently exist independently of inflammation of the eye. 

Treatment. — -For ulcers at the edges, mangy skin, and an anxious 
manner, give sulphur or mercurius corrosivus. For dropsical swellings 
which retain the impression of a finger pressed upon them, as in dropsy, 
give arsenicum, with good food. 

Swellings differing from the last in containing gas instead of fluid 
occur among well-fed and fattening cattle, and are best treated with pulsatilla. 

CATARACT. 

A cataract may develop after severe inflammation of the eye, when the 
eyelids are red, sight gradually impaired, and a whitish, brownish, or yel- 
lowish body forms on the pupil. 

Treatment. — The treatment is the same as for Cataract in the Horse. 
An impairment of the sight of the ox does not, however, so materially 
affect his value as it does that of the horse. 
50 



786 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE EAR. 

This derangement is usually caused by the presence of seeds, insects 
or bits of hay in the ear. 

Symptoms. — The head hangs toward the affected side, the animal fre- 
quently shaking the ear, or rubbing it with the hind foot or against the wall; 
ear swollen, tender, and containing mucus or pus. 

Treatment. — If an insect is in the ear, it will come out upon pour- 
ing a little sweet oil into the ear; other foreign bodies should be removed; 
then inject into the ear, with a small syringe, a lotion of arnica, one part to 
ten of water. If pus or an abscess has formed, give mercurius, alone or 
alternately with hepar. Belladonna or pulsatilla will usually suffice for 
swelling and tenderness, without threatened ulceration, and for great pain. 
For offensive discharge of pus inject diluted carbolic acid into the ear. 
Arsenicum may be useful in case an abscess forms. 

CHOKING. 

Choking is easily recognized by feeling the obstruction in the gullet, 
by the difficult breathing, violent attempts to swallow, and the discharge of 
saliva from the mouth. P?-ompt action is imperative. 

Treatment. — An obstruction near the front part of the gullet may 
be removed by putting the hand, properly protected, into the throat and 
withdrawing it; but if it be too far down for this, take a strong stick, cane 
or willow, or still better, whalebone, four or five feet long, make it smooth, 
put on the end an egg-shaped bulb (the smaller end being attached to the 
stick), covered with soft leather and firmly fastened with strong strings, 
passing the string around the stick and back to the hand to prevent the 
bulb from remaining in the gullet if it should chance to slip off. With this 
instrument push the obstruction into the stomach. If the obstruction is 
reasonably soft, it may be crushed by carefully pressing the hands or two 
blocks of wood on its sides. In some cases it may be necessary for a sur- 
geon to open the gullet. The greatest care and gentleness should be exer- 
cised in crushing it or forcing it downward. 

POISONOUS PLANTS. 

Poison from plants may cause suffering and death, though it may not 
be easy to detect the poison unless it is known that the animal has been 
among noxious vegetation. 

Sympto?ns. — Loss of appetite; numbness; much thirst; grinding teeth; 



THE OX MISCELLANEOUS DISORDERS AND INJURIES. 787 

stamping; the animal strikes the flanks and rolls, as in colic; swelling of 
the abdomen and other parts; sometimes fury, insensibility, paralysis and 
death. 

Treatment. — Empty the stomach with a stomach-pump immediately, 
and force warm water into the paunch until the animal vomits, continuing 
until the stomach is entirely cleansed. Such a pump will usually not be at 
hand, and considerable quantities of olive or linseed oil will often be of ad- 
vantage. Give camphor internally. Then use only the mildest food. 

SWOLLEN BONES. 

The bones may be swollen, very tender, and often attended with ul- 
cerating wounds. The disorder is very difficult to cure. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius corrosivus internally, and apply a lotion 
of the same externally, if the swelling is callous and hard. In chronic cases, 
when pus forms, one or two doses daily of silicea will be very useful, omit- 
ting it's use at intervals. Protracted treatment is generally needed. 

BREAKING OF THE HORNS. 

This misfortune is attended with considerable bleeding, which may be 
stopped by fomentations of a lotion of arnica or calendula. If the horn is 
still warm, it may possibly be restored by replacing it at once and fixing it 
with bandages, covered with cloths frequently soaked in one of the lotions 
just named. Give arnica internally when used externally. Follow with 
Symphytum, especially when the bone also is broken. Squilla is another 
useful remedy. Tie the animal so that rubbing the horn is impossible. 

ABSCESSES, SPRAINS, WOUNDS, DISLOCATIONS, ETC. 

Among the miscellaneous diseases and injuries incident to cattle are 
many whose treatment is the same as that for the horse, and the reader is 
referred to their respective articles in Part II. In this number may be men- 
tioned Abscesses, Ulcers, Open Joints, Cuts and other Wounds, Bruises, 
Ruptures, Dislocations, Fractures, Sprains and Strains of various kinds, 
and other forms of Mechanical Injuries. 

CAUTIONS ABOUT DISEASED CATTLE. 

A few words may be said in conclusion upon the liability of disease 
arising from the careless or unscrupulous regard paid to diseased cattle. 



:S8 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH, 



The chief aim in breeding" and raising them is the production of beef, milk, 
butter and cheese for the table. On the part of the consumer of these 
staples too much caution can not be taken to patronize only such butchers 
and grocers as are known to be careful and conscientious in the selection of 
what they sell, as this is the only direct means of guarding their tables 
which is at the command of those who do not keep their own cattle. On 
the part of the breeder and raiser there is a sacred obligation to avoid the 
use of cattle which are not in a good state of health. To the unscrupulous 
farmer or raiser, who cares only for the dollars which he is to get, no 
suggestions are of any use. Others will conscientiously choose the best of 
food for stock which is intended for the production of meat and milk; will 
slaughter, sell, or milk for use only those which are in health; will not 
only exclude from the market the products of those of his herd which are 
affected with anthrax, foot and mouth disease, ulcers and sores in general — 
thus precluding the chances of the human family taking the same or 
similar diseases — but will take the additional precaution to keep the flesh, 
milk, droppings, urine, etc., from swine and poultry in particular, since such 
affections, so contracted by these two, have an almost immediate entrance 
into the human family through the flesh, lard and eggs. 




ZEUSTID OF PART III 



^r^ 

^ 



ZP^I?,T I"7". 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 



rt, 







790 



PART IV. 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES.* 




STAGGERS— GIDDINESS. 

'HIS is very dangerous, occurring most frequently in lambs, especially 
in those not over six months old, seldom among sheep over two 
years of age. It is caused by small insects in the head. It is said 
b^p3 that these insects will produce tape-worm in a dog, that the joints 
of tape- worm from the dog will produce the insects in sheep, and hence, 
that the presence of dogs will induce this disease. A cold, wet season and 
low, damp localities favor the development of the disorder. 

Symptoms. — Stumbling ; turning round often ; head turned to one side, 
or held high up and forward; impaired appetite; indifference; wild look; 
eyes bluish, the pupils enlarged and the eyeballs prominent; then blindness, 
stupor, loss of flesh, exhaustion and death. 

Treatment. — Whether the bone be absorbed or not, a veterinary 
surgeon may perform an operation to remove the insect. In any case, the 
treatment should be applied immediately upon the discovery of the disorder. 
Belladonna is the only medicine that has effected cures. It may be given 
every day at first, then every two days until the affection disappears. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

Inflammation of the brain, in which the brain is gorged with blood, is 
caused by over-driving, high feeding, blows on the head, sunstroke, and 
the like. It is most common among lambs. 

*The reader should carefully note the remarks upon "Signs of Health and Disease " on page 539. 
He will also readily infer that all requisite information upon the treatment of the few ailments of the Goat 
will be easily derived from the following directions upon the Sheep. The organism and habits of the Ox 
and Sheep are so similar that their diseases are generally the same, and references to Part ill should be 
made for treatment in all but a few diseases of the sheep. The remarks upon "Anatomy and Physiology" 
on pages 735-737 are of special importance at this point. 

791 



792 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Symptoms and Treatment.- — Hot head; dullness; drooping head and 
ears; bright, red, staring eyes; staggering. Later, the animal looks wild, 
dashes about, falls heavily in convulsions and dies. Treat as directed for 
this disorder in the Ox on a preceding page. 

APOPLEXY AND PARALYSIS. 

Apoplexy is very common in sheep, and usually arises from rich pas- 
turage, over-driving, and hot weather. 

Syjnpto??is and Treat?nent of Apoplexy. — Dullness; sleepiness; red, 
fixed eyes; enlarged pupils; quick, hard pulse; loud breathing; heaving 
flanks; distended nostrils; falls, convulsions and death. Treat as for In- 
flammation of the Brain in the Ox. Give scanty food at first. Since an- 
other attack is liable to occur, it is best to fatten the animal for slaughter. 

Paralysis is sufficiently described as related to the Horse and Ox, and 
the reader is referred for treatment to the articles devoted to Paralysis in 
those animals. Rub the parts. Give gruel as food. 

HYDROPHOBIA. 

Hydrophobia is caused by the bite of a mad animal, usually a dog, and 
its symptoms appear from two to twelve weeks after the bite. In addition 
to the symptoms among cattle (which see), the sheep chase one another, 
lose flesh and appetite, are restless, and have increased sexual instinct. 
Ewes often become stupid and paralyzed and die without violent symptoms, 
while lambs have fits, and rams and wethers dash about and violently butt 
any object in reach. 

Treatment. — When a rabid dog has been in a flock, and it is not 
absolutely known which sheep are affected, give belladonna to the whole 
flock once a day for several days, then once a week for some weeks. If it 
is known which ones are bitten, they alone need be so treated. For fuller 
treatment see Hydrophobia in the Ox and Dog. 

FITS.— EPILEPSY. 

This disorder frequently occurs an hour or two before daybreak on- a 
cold morning. On rising from the bed the animal stares, staggers, falls, 
struggles, kicks, rolls its eyes, grinds its teeth, foams at the mouth, and 
sometimes passes dung and urine involuntarily; soon the paroxysm subsides 
and the animal appears in good health. The fit may occur daily, and 
its repetition will exhaust the animal and perhaps prove ratal in time. 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 793 

Treatment. — On the first attack give a few doses of aconite during 
the first day, followed by belladonna or stramonium. See Epilepsy in the 
Horse. Change the pasture and give comfortable shelter. 

LOCK-JAW.— TETANUS. 

Lock-jaw is fully treated in the sections devoted to the Ox and Horse, 
and to them the reader is referred. It is not so difficult of cure among 
sheep. Sufficient shelter for lambs, and for ewes in labor, during cold rains 
and severe weather, and care in castration, will avert many cases. 

WATER IN THE HEAD.— HYDROCEPHALUS. 

Water in the head is not uncommon in lambs of weak constitutions, 
and those produced by ewes likewise affected. It is an accumulation of 
serous fluid on the surface of the brain. 

Symptoms. — These are readily noticed, the head being enlarged, and the 
hind quarters perhaps paralyzed. Sometimes the disorder comes on gradu- 
ally; the lamb staggers; the appetite is impaired or lost; the bowels are 
loose at one time and bound at another; enlarged skull; flesh lost; death. 
If the disorder exists at birth, it may be necessary to crush the skull to save 
the ewe in labor. 

Treatment. — The disorder is fatal, though relief may be given by 
belladonna and hellebore. The best preventive is a complete change in the 
stock for a new flock, with special care of the ewes in the lambing-season. 

BLAIN. 

Blain is an infectious disease, with causes, symptoms and treatment 
similar to those given for the same disease in the Ox (which see). It will 
be noticed that the head and throat are greatly enlarged. Be prompt in 
treatment, and remove the diseased animal from the flock at once. 

ULCERATION OF THE MOUTH. 

This is at first marked by inflamed, hot, red mouth; swollen gums and 
tongue; free flow of saliva and mucus from the mouth. In a few days 
small white vesicles appear on the gums and palate, which break and leave 
ulcers; sticky saliva drips from the mouth; other symptoms being refusal 
of food and loss of cud. It is sometimes epidemic. At other times it ac- 
companies foot-rot. Treat as for Blain in the Ox. 



794 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

BLACK MOUTH AXD MUZZLE. 

This affection consists in scabby eruptions about the muzzle, eyes and 
ears, possibly on the whole surface. It is more common among lambs 
than sheep. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius and sulphur internally, and at the 
same time apply to the eruptions, in severe cases, an ointment of that one 
of the two which is administered. Continue them until cured. 

STRANGLES. 

This disorder is an inflammation of the salivary glands, with forma- 
tion of pus, but is uncommon among sheep. Its symptoms are fever, 
swelling under the lower jaw, and tumors which tend to form pus. Its 
treatment is the same as that for Strangles in the Horse. 

HOOVE.— BLOATING.— TYMPANITIS. 

Hoove is caused by greedy and excessive eating of clover, turnips, 
or other food, or by the engorgement of the gullet, the stomach 
becoming enormously swollen. 

Treatment. — Be prompt. A surgical operation may be necessary. 
For this, and for the symptoms, as well as full treatment, see the same dis- 
ease in the Ox. Ammonium causticum and colchicum are first required. 

DIARRHOEA. 

Diarrhoea is caused by bad food at any season; new grass in the spring; 
in lambs, poor milk and the first grass that is eaten. In many cases it mav 
be a svmptom of another disease, when the cause itself must be treated. 
In some instances it needs no attention, as it may be but a natural way of 
discharging injurious matter. A change of food should generally be made, 
and lambs mav be dipped in cool water every morning for two weeks and 
allowed to dry, keeping them on old soil. For fuller treatment, see 
Diarrhoea in the Ox. 

DYSENTERY. 

Dysentery, an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the intestines, 
is often confused with diarrhoea, which is only a natural way of discharg- 
ing injurious matter. It may, however, result from neglected diarrhoea. 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 795 

Treat as for Dysentery in the Ox. Give a diet of gruel and a little hay, 
and remove the exciting cause. Wash off the slimy mucus from the thighs 
and tail with soap and warm water, putting on sand or fine dirt to keep off 
flies and prevent the tail from adhering to the quarters. 

COLIC. 

Colic is not common among sheep, but lambs over-fed with milk, 
herbs, or rank pasturage maybe affected with it. For symptoms and treat- 
ment, see Colic in the Ox, noting particularly the symptoms which distin- 
guish it from Inflammation of the Bowels, with which it is easily confounded. 

WORMS IN THE INTESTINES. 

Worms in the intestines of lambs are indicated by disordered digestion, 
swollen abdomen, much mucus in the nostrils, diminished chewing of the 
cud, and wasting about the loins. Its full treatment will be found under 
the same disorder in the Ox, cina and felix mas being the chief medicines. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

This is very common among sheep. It is often fatal and frequently 
leads on to rot, a very serious malady (see next disease). It may be pro- 
duced by excess of nourishing food, but generally, it is believed, it results 
from miasmatic influences, as from damp pastures that have been over- 
flowed, and other decaying vegetation. It is sometimes epidemic. Its 
symptoms are fever; dullness; quiet mood; hanging head; constipation; 
yellow skin and eyes, especially in the corners of the latter; heaving flanks; 
lameness in the right fore leg; pain from pressure on the right side; early 
death; or a chronic form ensues, ending in rot. Appropriate treatment is 
given under Inflammation of the Liver in the Ox. 

ROT.— FLUKE DISEASE. 

Rot is a common disease, and the most destructive one known among 
sheep. It results in a breaking up or rotting of the liver and internal 
tissues and organs. Careless thought should not produce a confusion of 
this with foot-rot, because of any similarity of names. Its chief causes are 
miasmatic influences, as decaying vegetable matter on miry lands, in the 
beds of streams that are nearly dry, and in water lying on any pasture after 
rains. Bad food, watery grass and thawing grounds are all favorable to its 



796 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

occurrence, while animals are predisposed to it by shearing in bad weather, 
exposure to cold and wet, and by the general conditions conducive to a low 
state of the system. The essential characteristic of the disease is the pres- 
ence in the liver and gall-ducts of parasites, or flukes. These derange or 
wholly destroy the functions of the liver and lead to most serious structural 
changes in that organ, finally reducing it so it will break on the slightest 
pressure, or almost dissolve away when boiled. 

Symptoms. — Though the disease sometimes develops rapidlv, its symp- 
toms are more likely to be so gradual as not to attract attention at first. 
They begin with a slow walk, drooping ears and shaking of the head, 
though the animal may appear in good condition, and even gain flesh. 
Then appear dullness, slowness, and indifference to the touch of attendants, 
the eyes being dull, watery and yellowish; eyelids swollen; skin vellow, 
puffed, and easily retaining the impression of the finger; pale lips, palate 
and gums. Then one may notice a loss of flesh; hollow flanks; breath very 
offensive; tongue, muzzle and eyes very vellow; rigid back; wool discolored, 
coming off easily, perhaps with patches of skin; skin loose and flabby, 
with bluish-black spots on it; soft flesh, producing a crackling noise when 
handled; bowels loose at one time, then bound; scanty, high-colored urine; 
loss of appetite; excessive thirst; dropsical swellings in the abdomen and 
other parts; loss of cud; nostrils clogged with sticky mucus; copious tears; 
on the upper part of the neck and lower part of the jaw appears a soft, in- 
active tumor, larger during grazing, and disappearing during the night; 
rapid, weak pulse; quick, short breath; the animal continues lying down; 
weakness; listlessuess; wasting; death. Another form of rot, occasioned 
perhaps by cold, by wet, by shearing in bad weather, and the like, is 
marked by a continual, distressing cough, in addition to many of the symp- 
toms above named. 

Treatment. — First remove the sheep to dry quarters and give a diet 
of corn, beans, peas, and other nutritious but not juicy food. Keep a good 
supply of rock-salt within reach of the animals. Give arsenicum for weak- 
ness, swollen belly, loose skin, and soft flesh, and alternate it with china if 
the skin be yellow. Brvonia is suitable for quick, difficult breathing, and 
deranged urine and dung. Yet these remedies can only relieve such symp- 
toms for a time ; they can not cure the disease, for this involves the destruc- 
tion of the flukes. Tonics which act upon the liver are the main reliance, 
and even those will be of little service if many of the parasites are present. 

Keep the sheep away from low pastures and such influences as were 
mentioned above as producing the disorder. Give salt daily when flukes 
are known to be present, or are suspected. Sheep should not be admitted 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 797 

to infested fields as a rule, though the chances of infection are greatly re- 
duced by simply keeping the flock out of them when the grass is wet with 
dew or rain. Isolate infested animals, and even destroy them in some cases. 
Professor Law names the following, a half-pint daily to each sheep: 

Linseed, rape, pea, oat, barley, or unbolted 

wheat flour, 40 lbs. 

Powdered gentian or anise seed, 4 lbs. 

Sulphate or oxide of iron, 1 lb. 

Common salt, 4 lbs. 

Though this may be given with some hopes of benefit, cases that are 
bad or confirmed will generally resist the best treatment. 

DISORDERS OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 

The disorders of the breathing-apparatus in the sheep are in general 
the same as those in cattle, such as Cough, Cold, Catarrh, Bronchitis, 
Laryngitis, Pneumonia, and occasionally Consumption. Their symptoms 
and suitable treatment are given under the appropriate articles on the 
Ox. It may be remarked that a form of cold in the head, characterized by 
a thin, watery, mattery discharge, is contagious, and that an animal so 
suffering should be isolated to prevent a further spread. 

SCAB. 

This is a very destructive disease, similar in general to mange or itch 
in other animals. It is due to the presence of parasities, which are easily 
transmitted from one sheep to another by direct contact, by occupying 
places in which infested sheep have been kept, or by rubbing objects which 
they have touched ; and even attendants or dogs will carry them to the 
flock. The disorder is more common in dirty, weak, unhealthy, and long- 
wooled sheep. In addition to itching and scratching, it is characterized by 
pustules, ulcers, scabs, and falling of patches of wool. 

Treatment. — First moisten and remove the scabs with warm soap- 
suds. If the wool is heavy, patience will be requisite, and care will be 
needed to avoid staining of the fleece. Professor Law gives the following 
as suitable and safe: 

Tobacco, 16 pounds. 

Oil of tar, 3 pints. 

Soda-ash, 20 pounds. 

Soft soap, 4 pounds. 

Water, 50 gallons. 



798 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



The tobacco is to be boiled in some water, and the oil, ash and soap 
dissolved in boiling water, then water is to be added until fifty gallons in 
all have been used. The preparation is to be applied at a temperature of 
about 70 F., each sheep being kept in the bath three minutes, the attend- 
ants meanwhile breaking up the scabs and rubbing the liquid into all parts 
of the skin. Upon taking the sheep out, squeeze the liquid out of the wool 
so it will run back into the bath. It may be necessary to repeat the appli- 
cation two or three times. The amount given above will be enough to 
treat fifty sheep once. In persistent cases it will be necessary to shear the 




200. A Bad Case of Scab. 



sheep. In such instances, or whenever the wool is very short, some oily 
application is advised, since it will not so readily wash off, and the author 
quoted recommends one part of oil of tar to forty parts of castor oil. Avoid 
applications which contain mercury, arsenic and other poisonous ingredients. 
Provide clean, dry quarters, without crowding, fresh air and nourishing 
food, such particulars being essential in treatment and very serviceable in 
preventing the disorder in animals not already suffering from scab. To 
eradicate all traces of the malady, observe the directions upon cleansing the 
infested places and objects which are recommended for Mange in the Horse. 



LICE AND TICKS. 

These are very troublesome to sheep. Ticks most often infest the 
fleeces of ewes in the spring, and, passing to the lambs, make them weak 
by drawing their blood; and they may remain in a fleece alive for a year 
after it is clipped. 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 799 

Treatment. — To a dilution of one part of the tincture of tabacum 
and ten of water add an equal quantity of vinegar, and with fhis saturate 
the wool; or, as a less harmful though equally efficacious expedient, thor- 
oughly soak the skin and wool with olive oil, and afterward wash with 
soap and warm water. The use of soap and water alone is unavailing. A 
liberal rubbing with a lotion of equal parts of sulphurous acid and glycerine 
or water will drive away the insects; dilute carbolic acid will do the 
same. 

FLY IN THE NOSE. 

In the summer the gadfly deposits its eggs in the flaps of the nostrils 
of the choice sheep in a flock while asleep; larvae are soon hatched, pass up 
the nasal cavities to the small nasal sinuses, and descend in the spring, bury- 
ing themselves in the ground and coming out as flies in the summer. In 
the passage upward and downward the larvae irritate the delicate membrane. 

Symptoms. — Inflamed nostrils; pain; dizziness; stamping; violent 
sneezing; tossing of the head; discharge of larvae from the nose with much 
mucus. 

Treatment. — Give sulphur internally, and burn it under the sheep's 
nose so it can inhale the fumes. The sneezing caused by the fumes will 
expel the larvae, and they should be destroyed if not already dead. Avoid 
blowing powders up the nostrils. 

MAGGOTS IN THE FLESH. 

Sheep that are dirty about the tail and quarters, and those that have 
sores, are attacked by a large blow-fly which deposits its eggs in the filth 
or sores. The eggs produce maggots which burrow in the skin and cause 
swelling, pain, low spirits and weakness. If the maggots are not promptly 
removed, pus and ulcers will form, and death ensue. 

Treatment. — The best treatment is to search out and remove the 
maggots, and keep the affected parts clean with diluted carbolic acid. 
Carefully avoid all mercurial applications. 

GOITRE. 

This is an unsightly tumor which arises from an enlargement of the 
thyroid gland, situated on the side of the neck. In lambs the enlargement 
may extend from the jaw to the breast-bone. It is probably caused by 
mineral constituents of the drinking-water, and is most common in localities 



800 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

in which the water contains magnesian limestone. The tumor is at first 
soft, but afterward becomes tense and hard, and will be gritty if opened. 

Treatment. — Provide pure rain water. Give iodine internally and 
apply the same externally. Spongia is an excellent internal remedy, as is 
also drosera. A local use of a lotion of mercurius corrosivus will be bene- 
ficial in some cases, alone or used at intervals, with iodine applied at other 
times. To prevent goitre in lambs, give the ewes in winter rain-water, 
good feeding, and an abundance of open-air exercise. Neglect of such 
precautions has been followed by the loss of the entire produce of the year. 
It will take a long time to effect a cure of a case of real goitre. 

FOOT-ROT. 

Foot-rot is either mild or malignant. The mild form is an inflamma- 
tion of the space between the two parts of the hoof and is usually associ- 
ated with Ulceration of the Mouth (which see). It is caused by sand or 
gravel in the affected part, hard roads, hot weather, and fatigue. The in- 
flammation often extends to the whole foot, with ulcerations, the pastern 
and fetlock joints perhaps becoming involved. There is lameness in one 
foot, or, if both front feet are affected, the animal creeps about on its knees, 
and pain and fever are present. The malignant form affects the whole foot, 
and is caused by a change from dry, upland fields to soft, grassy meadows. 
The hoof becomes softened, grows irregularly, cracks and splits; foreign 
matter in the cracks irritates them, producing inflammation and disorganiz- 
ing the parts, attended with ulcers, detachment of pieces of the foot, and 
disease of the bones, cartilages and ligaments. 

Treatment. — At first remove all foreign matters, foment the hoof 
with tepid water, and dress all sores with a lotion of arnica or calendula. 
Remove matter, rough edges, and decayed horn, cutting open ulcers to the 
bottom if it be necessary to reach the matter, and syringing out the sores. 
Then apply a poultice of turnip or oatmeal, followed by bandaging with 
calendula-lotion. If, however, the formation of pus continues, use the poul- 
tice again. Bandages should be continued until the hoof becomes sound, 
and all irritating substances be kept out. During the formation of pus give 
silicea or hepar, followed by sulphur or thuja. See Foot-Rot in the Ox. 

SWELLING OF THE TOINTS. 

Such swelling is rather common among lambs. It is an inflamed con- 
dition of the joints, usually the knee, sometimes the hock and fetlock, and 
arises from damp and cold. 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 801 

Symptoms* — Swelling; heat; stiffness; pain; general disorder of the 
system; the symptoms grow worse, ulceration sets in, with matter dis- 
charged; chronic lameness or death. 

Treatment. — Shelter the animal; foment the joint and bandage it 
with rhus-lotion ; give aconite for fever, and hepar or silicea if pus forms. 

MISCARRIAGE.— ABORTION. 

Miscarriage is frequent in ewes, though seldom fatal, and even seems 
to be epidemic. It may arise from weakness; intercourse with a ram or 
hasty driving during the latter stages of pregnancy; a sudden fright. It is 
apt to occur when a cold winter is followed by a wet summer. 

Treatment. — If the disorder seems general among the ewes, give 
each of them a dose of arnica once a day for a few days. If miscarriage 
has begun, give secale every six or eight hours. Ferrum sulphuris is bene- 
ficial if the trouble seems to result from a weak system. See other remedies 
and fuller information in the article on Miscarriage or Abortion in the Cow. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER. 

This disorder of ewes arises, during the lambing-season, from cold and 
wet, damp, easterly winds, or lying with the udder on the cold, wet ground. 
Its progress is rapid and often fatal ; hence treatment must be prompt. 

Symptoms. — Udder swollen, very tender, and growing hot and hard; 
quickened pulse; loss of appetite; fever; perhaps ulceration. 

Treatment. — Afford a dry, warm shelter. Give aconite for fever, 
five or six drops three or four times daily. When the fever subsides, give 
belladonna and bryonia in alternation two or three times a day. After the 
above remedies, if hardness remains in the udder, give a few doses of sul- 
phur. Mercurius will be especially needed if pus or ulceration ensues. 
Empty the udder of its contents by hand if the lamb will not do it. Fuller 
information is given in the section on this disorder in the Cow. 

DISORDERS INCIDENT TO LAMBING. 

Milk or Puerperal Fever is much to be dreaded. For causes, symp- 
toms and treatment, consult the section on the same disorder among 
cows. 

Iriflammation of the Pudenda may be produced by injuries to the 
parts of generation from forcibly taking the lamb away from the ewe. 
The pudenda are hot, painful and swollen. Wash the parts well with 
5i 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tepid water and bathe with arnica-lotion. Give arnica internally two 01 
three times a dav. Aconite alternated with sulphur is sometimes useful. 

BRAXY. 

Braxy is a term which is used with a variety of meanings. An in- 
flammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and bowels is known 
as dry braxy; if the serous membrane of the abdomen is affected, the 
disorder is known as water braxy; another form that is marked by 
diarrhoea or dysentery is known as dumb braxy. True braxy, which we 
are now considering (the others having been sufficiently noticed in other 
places and under different names), is a blood-disease, and is caused by ex- 
cessive eating, particularly of turnips and rich food; by a change from 
poor to rank food; by whatever will derange the general system; and by 
contagion in some cases. It is sudden in its attacks, so far as visible symp- 
toms are concerned, and is very often fatal, death not unfrequently occurring 
in a few hours. It arises particularly in frostv weather. 

Symptoms. — Staggering; quick, bounding pulse; hot, dry mouth; 
quick, hard breathing and panting; hard, dry dung and dark, scanty 
mine, both difficult of passage; weakness; the animal falls, rolls on its back, 
and dies; sometimes, however, the skin is puffed out and the underlying 
gas produces crackling if the hand is rubbed over it; in other cases the 
paunch is swollen out on the left side. 

Treatment. — Treatment must be given in the first stages. In the 
earliest svmptoms make the animal move about briskly. For prostration 
give arsenicum, ten drops every fifteen or twenty minutes. Should it be 
necessary to puncture the paunch (see this operation under Tympanitis in 
the Ox), nux vomica and ammonium causticum should be given, ten drops 
everv hour until improvement begins, then once in two or three hours. 
Drench down small quantities of hot gruel, while the animal is kept in a 
warm place. If the dung is hard and the belly painful, warm water may 
be injected through the rectum. Should recovery ensue, be very careful 
about the food for some days. Shelter and avoidance of a sudden change 
to rich pasturage are useful in preventing the disease. 

SHEEP-POX. 

Sheep-pox is a verv contagious and destructive disease, and its infection 
mav be carried bv other animals, by shepherds, and other means, and when 
its virus has been deposited on the pastures or in other places frequented by 
sheep, the disorder readily spreads. It may be communicated to a dog, 



THE SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES. 808 

but not to man. It is of two kinds: the mild, in which the pustules are 
few, and remain distinct; the malignant, or "confluent," in which the 
pustules are many, irregular in outline, running into each other, rapid in their 
action, and generally fatal. 

Symptoms. — In about a week from the time the infection occurs the 
animal leaves the flock, is dull and listless, with quick breath, rapid, short 
pulse, swollen eyelids and red membrane of the eyeball. Later, small, red, 
inflamed pimples are found in the skin where there is no wool, which 
rapidly increase in number and extend to all parts, but especially to the 
inner side of the thighs, the anus, the adjoining bare spots, the lips and the 
mouth; these then grow larger and appear as pustules, the system generally 
becoming disturbed, the thirst great, pulse tremulous, appetite impaired, cud 
lost, bowels inactive, or sometimes loose. In perhaps a week the center of 
the eruptions is transparent and elevated and filled with a fluid, at first 
clear, then turbid; the pustule now takes on a yellowish, opaque appear- 
ance, is generally flattened, the skin around it becoming pale; the pustule 
then dries. If the scabs or eruptions be rubbed off or broken, the healing 
will be slow. In ordinary cases the eruptions last sixteen or eighteen days, 
from their appearance to the natural falling of the scabs; then the animal, 
in favorable cases, recovers. In the "confluent" form the fever is very 
severe, becoming typhoid in character; pulse rapid and strong at first, then 
weak and tremulous; quick and offensive breath; blood-shot eyes; swollen 
eyelids; mucous membranes blue and congested; great pain in the back 
and limbs; intense thirst; offensive smell from the skin; the wool falls off" 
in patches, or readily comes off with the hand. The pustules run to- 
gether, forming a mass of rotten matter and ulcers; the face becomes dis- 
gusting, with swollen nose; yellowish discharge from the nose and mouth, 
pustules in the nasal cavities, and even back to or beyond the throat; great 
tenderness generally; prostration; diarrhoea; death in eight or nine days 
from the appearance of the eruptions. 

Treatment. — Isolate infected animals to prevent the spread of the 
malady and do not return them until all scabs have disappeared. Keep the 
eyes, mouth and nostrils well cleansed with a weak dilution of carbolic acid. 
Keep rock-salt in reach of the sick and the well, and add a little vinegar 
to the water. Cool, dry, well-aired sheds, with comfortable bedding 
and protection from rains, should be provided. Give gruels of oatmeal or 
bran, and a drachm of saltpetre to each affected sheep, but avoid heat- 
producing foods in the main. Such local applications may be used for the 
pustules as were mentioned for Cow-Pox. Antimonium tartaricum should 
be given as soon as the disease is certainly known to exist, and it is also 
very useful in the eruptive stages. For much ulceration, offensive smell 



804 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

of the breath and skin, and formation of pus, mercurius will be invaluable. 
Sulphur is efficacious when scabs are forming, and for completing a cure 
when it has begun. All objects that have been touched by the infected 
sheep should be thoroughly rubbed with strong carbolic acid. 

Owing to the malignant character of the disease it is better not to 
undertake any treatment unless the infection has spread so far that the 
slaughter would involve a heavy loss. If it is detected in time, the safer 
and cheaper plan is to kill and bury or burn the infected ones and thus cut 
short the malady. When it has gained a start, good results may be ob- 
tained by inoculating the well with the virus of the sick, since it has been 
clearly proved that the disease taken by inoculation is much less fatal than 
when occurring by the natural mode of infection. 

WOUNDS, SPRAINS, FRACTURES, ETC. 

The suitable description and treatment of all such injuries as Cuts, 
Wounds in general, Dislocations, Fractures, Sprains, and the like, may be 
gained by reference to the sections devoted to them respectively in the 
Horse. Severe cases are best treated by an immediate slaughter, before 
the incident derangement of the system so far advances as to render the 
flesh unfit for food. 

FEVERS, RHEUMATISM, DROPSY, ETC. 

For the various forms of Fever, Rheumatism and Dropsy, the reader 
should refer to these diseases as they are found in the Horse and Ox. It 
may be said that a form of Dropsy known as Red- Water occurs quite 
often in sheep when they are first fed on turnips, and in lambs that are 
weaned in cold, damp surroundings. This type requires good shelter, a 
change of diet, and the treatment, in general, laid down for Dropsy in the Ox. 

Disorders which occur more or less often in the sheep, and are not 
mentioned in this part of the work because they are sufficiently considered 
with reference to the Ox, are Thrush, Inflammation of the Bowels, Inflam- 
mation of the Spleen, Constipation, Loss of Appetite and Cud, Black 
Quarter, and several easily recognized diseases of the Skin. 



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THE HOG MV HIS DISEASES. 




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PART V. 

THE HOG AND HIS DISEASES. 

GENERAL REMARKS. 

pHE observations upon Anatomy and Physiology which are made 
on page 539 apply with sufficient precision to the hog to make 
unnecessary a separate treatise thereon. The varied food of this 
^p> animal points to a similarity of functions as compared with those 
of man, and all practical hints for a work of this kind will be gleaned from 
what has been laid down in the several chapters of Part I. Before ad- 
vancing to the treatment of diseases, however, notes are in order upon a 
few popular errors of practice in the care of swine. 

In the first place, it is generally assumed that the hog is by nature 
prone to habits of filth. He is naturally disposed to wallow in water or 
other fluid elements, but will choose that which is clean if he has an oppor- 
tunity. If he has not, he will take to what is afforded him, however filthy 
it be. It is only a disregard of his natural fondness for wallowing that 
leads him to take to offensive mire. A little observation will convince 
one that this animal is disposed to be cleanly. He will keep his sleeping- 
apartments clean and dry and will generally deposit the manure in a place 
apart from the bed, feed and drink. If one would have cleanly and healthy 
swine, the sty should be so arranged as to permit them to follow such 
promptings of their nature — a practice which is far from common. 

In the second place, swine are not sufficiently protected from the 
weather. They are proverbial prognosticators of the weather, as shown 
by their preparation of beds before an approaching cold spell; and they 
are also sensitive to extremes of heat and cold. Their squealing in cold 
weather is more marked than the noise made by any other of the domestic 
animals in the winter; they will huddle together more closely to preserve 
warmth than others will; and they will with equal persistence seek damp 
and shady places in summer. These indicate that the hog is much more 

807 



808 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

sensitive than the majority of people suppose, if one may judge by the ex- 
posure to bitter cold and burning heat that is usually imposed. Such 
neglect contributes to discomfort and disease, and the exposure in winter is 
peculiarly unwise, in that it creates a great demand for food to merely 
maintain the temperature of the body, whereas the food should be used 
directly for flesh-forming purposes. 

There is a widespread aversion to the use of pork because of the ex- 
istence of trichinae, and it is well to remark that much can be done to avoid 
this diseased condition by a proper regard to the pen and feed. Trichina? 
are parasites in the flesh of the hog which are liberated in the human 
stomach by digestion, if infested pork is eaten without being long and 
thoroughly cooked. Rats and mice are peculiarly affected by these para- 
sites and they will communicate them to the hog. It is a well-known fact 
that swine are prone to eat these animals, and that the latter will infest the 
pens to get the grain therein. It is obvious, therefore, that special pains 
should be taken in the construction of a piggery to wholly shut out rats 
and mice from all possible reach of swine. Besides, the offal of the hog, 
from the slaughter-house, butcher's shop and kitchen, should be scrupulously 
excluded from the feed, lest it be infested with trichina; and so transmit 
them to healthy swine. 

The last caution upon the feed may be carried further. It seems 
strange that, while hogs are kept solely as producers of food for the table, 
their owners so generally act upon the rule that any food is "good enough 
for a hog." This must be the outgrowth of the most complete thoughtless- 
ness. To say nothing in detail upon the necessity of wholesome feeding to 
secure even acceptable pork, the writer will drop a remark upon the unwise 
use of milk and flesh-food. It is generally understood that milk is one of 
the choicest articles of food for swine, and it is if it is from a healthy cow. 
But what shall be said of the practice of carrying to the pigs the milk 
taken from diseased cows — because it is unfit for the family? That pigs 
are afflicted with anthrax, foot and mouth disease, and other malignant 
disorders, as a result of drinking the milk of cows suffering from the same, 
is well known. Again, carelessness is exhibited in allowing hogs to eat 
the flesh of cattle and other animals that have died from these diseases or 
been slaughtered because they were so affected, and sometimes such flesh 
is directly fed to them. In either case, they will become diseased and their 
flesh, when put on the table, will create more or less sickness in the house- 
hold. Since the hog is not at all fastidious in his eating, it is all the more 
important that his owner guard the food, and particularly because his only 
direct use is the supplying of food for the human family. 

The above points are mentioned because they are matters for every- 



THE HOG AND HIS DISEASES. 80^ 

day thought, and a disregard of them leads to the discomfort and disease 
of the animals, to extravagance in keeping, and to sickness of the human 
family. With these brief notes we pass to the consideration of the diseases, 
naming those which are confined to the hog, with a few others not so 
limited but needing particular mention. A large proportion of the disorders 
from which swine suffer are common to other animals, and hence need no 
further treatment than can be found by reference to preceding pages. 

ANTHRAX.— FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE, ETC. 

As remarked above, swine will contract various malignant diseases by 
eating the flesh of animals which have been affected with the same, and 
also very often by drinking the milk of diseased cows. In such cases, the 
swine will present the same symptoms as are shown by the animals which 
have thus imparted the disease, and the treatment laid down for the disease 
of the animal whose flesh or milk has been taken will be required for the 
affected swine. The fact that a hog has partaken of such diseased flesh or 
milk is a sufficient guide in determining upon the character of its ailment, 
and no detailed mention of causes or symptoms is needed at this point, since 
these are not distinctive diseases of swine. 

CHOLERA.— BLUE DISEASE. 

This is a very contagious and fatal fever, which begins with shivering, 
a dull, drooping manner and loss of appetite, followed by offensive 
and perhaps bloody diarrhoea, heat and redness of the surface, with blue, 
purplish, scarlet or black spots on the skin and mucous membranes. The 
animal lies on the belly and evinces pain. Vomiting of food or bile attends 
some cases, and a hard, dry cough is present in many instances. Other 
symptoms will be much thirst; quickened respiration and pulse; tem- 
perature 102° to 105 (detected by inserting a clinical thermometer in the 
rectum); thick fur on the tongue; hot, dry snout; unsteady gait behind, 
the surface of these parts then becoming cold; squealing when the belly 
is handled; after a time all control of the hind parts is lost, the animal 
becomes stupid (whereas it is sometimes delirious in earlier stages), and the 
muscles twitch or jerk. In rare instances there may be constipation from 
the beginning, instead of the diarrhoea. After a hog has been exposed to 
the malady the distinctive symptoms will not appear for three or four days 
in summer, or one to two weeks in winter. The disease generally proves 
fatal, death ensuing in from a few hours to five or six days. Occasionally an 
animal will pass through a slow and doubtful recovery. 



810 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Since recovery is rare and the disease is so prone to 
spread with great fatality, the only safe course is to kill and bury the infected 
animal at once. If treatment is undertaken, keep the piggery thoroughly 
infected with carbolic acid, and isolate the patient from the well. Feed 
well-boiled gruels of rye or barley, and boiled corn-starch. Put a little 
sulphuric acid into the drinking-water, the latter being cool, fresh and clean. 
Rhus, five drops every hour or two, is suitable for stages marked by the 
spots on the skin, diarrhoea, decline of spirits and strength, and threatened 
paralysis of the hind parts. Arsenicum, same dose as rhus, is a good gen- 
eral remedy, particularly for the diarrhoea, blue spots, cold surface, and 
vomiting. When the belly is very tender and the dung bloody, ten to fif- 
teen drops of turpentine twice a day will be invaluable. 

In the general care, whether in treatment or prevention, keep the 
apartments and bedding thoroughly clean and well-ventilated, dash cold 
water on the body, insure exercise, and give only good food, not too stimu- 
lating to the bowels for the well, and very simple for the sick. Test the 
temperature of all the hogs in the inclosure, and if it rises to or above 103 , 
treat or kill them at once. When one has been attacked, disinfect all others 
with dilute carbolic acid, and put a little of the same or a few drops of tur- 
pentine in the food or drink. Mix some charcoal in the food. Keep the 
well away from the inclosure, and from water that flows out of it. Bury 
or burn all infected animals as soon as they have died or been killed. Note 
the remarks under Strangles about confusing cholera with that disorder. 

STRANGLES.— QUINSY.— FALSE CHOLERA. 

The last of these three names is used because cases of strangles are fre- 
quently mistaken for cholera. Strangles, or so-called quinsy, is a result of 
colds, chills, or other influences which set up an inflammation of the mucous 
membranes of the respiratory organs. This may extend to the digestive 
track and induce a peculiar diarrhoea which, with the rapid fatality incident 
to both, leads to the confusion with real cholera. The glands beneath the 
neck are swollen, with a general swelling and stiffness of the neck; the 
head is immovable; the breathing is difficult, rattling and hoarse, or of a 
snoring nature; considerable fever is present; the tongue hangs out, and is 
covered with a slimy, sticky saliva; diarrhoea often occurs; there is a rapid 
decline of strength; the swelling on the neck tends to gangrene; death 
rapidly ensues. 

Treatment. — In the beginning it will often be sufficient to afford 
warm, dry shelter, tepid or cool water and gruels. For dry and inflamed or 
swollen throat, with suffocating breathing, give six drops of belladonna in 



THE HOG AND HIS DISEASES. 811 

a little water or meal every two or three hours. Ten drops of hepar every 
three hours will be useful for the symptoms just named, swelling of the 
head and face, and tendency in the swellings to "point" in suppuration. 
Give ten drops of mercurius every two or three hours when the swellings 
become soft and the saliva is profuse and offensive, or if the abscesses break 
internally. Sulphur is a good general remedy, and is peculiarly suitable to 
complete a cure that has begun. The greatest virtue is claimed for a mix- 
ture of equal parts of sweet oil, spirits of turpentine and kerosene oil, put 
into the feed and thus scattered over soft stone-coal. It may be used with 
great hope of good results, both as a remedy and a preventive. Pure air, 
warmth, freedom from cold draughts and sudden changes of temperature, 
warm but simple gruels, and tepid water are essential in the treatment, and 
are most serviceable in preventing the spread of the disease. This disorder 
is contagious, and the affected animals should be isolated at once. 

SWINE-POX. 

This is a contagious disease, being even communicable to man, and 
perhaps attacks young pigs most often. It is characterized by little red 
spots which are more particularly seen on the flanks, behind the shoulders, 
and in other parts where the skin is thin. After the poison enters the sys- 
tem it is latent ten or twelve days in winter, and three to six in summer. 
Then there will be dullness, loss of appetite, and stiffness of the hind parts, 
these being followed by increased temperature, constipation, red and watery 
eyes, nasal discharge, trembling, and red patches on the abdomen and inside 
the legs. Little red spots soon appear, generally flat on top, their centers 
becoming pale or clear, with a red margin. These spots may appear 
singly or in patches, the latter indicating a more serious condition. When 
these eruptions appear, the fever measurably declines for three or four days, 
only to return as the vesicles grow more prominent and irritating. The 
eruptions finally dry up and form crusts, the latter then becoming gradually 
detached. The disease lasts three to five weeks, and is sometimes very fatal, 
though generally the most of the patients recover. 

Treatment. — Keep the pigs in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, 
with an abundance of bedding, and avoid heating food, giving roots and 
gruels of the meal of oats or beans, with a little saltpetre once a day. 
Provide salt for the pigs to lick, and put a little vinegar in the drinking- 
water. In the latter stages, when there is much weakness, give such tonics 
as cinchona and gentian. Use upon the eruptions such local applications 
as are recommended for Cow-Pox. In other respects, follow the directions 
and cautions set forth under the head of Sheep-Pox. 



812 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

LEPROSY. 

By this is meant a disease which, though rare in America, is quite 
common in some countries of Europe, notably in England. Its essential 
manifestation is the development of whitish vesicles in any or all parts of 
the soft tissues of the body. It is most likely excited by a foul state of the 
sty and food, exposure to wet and cold, and other influences which seriously 
derange the digestive functions. Its progress is insidious, the organic changes 
being often far advanced before the disorder is noticed. The thighs, 
hams, jaws, shoulders, belly, in fact, all parts, contain the whitish vesicles; 
the animal is slow, drooping and weak ; the skin thickens and shows ulcerous 
sores, with patches of hair coming off; the gait is unsteady, and the mus- 
cular control of the hind parts is sometimes entirely lost; the appetite may 
be seemingly normal; the breath is offensive, and the whole surface emits 
a more or less putrid odor; as the disease progresses, it w T ill be marked by 
increased ulceration and swelling of the skin, with flakes coming off, shiny 
and offensive saliva, and other signs of putrefaction. 

Treatment. — At whatever stage the disease be detected, it is 
best to kill the hog and bury it, because its flesh will scarcely be rendered 
fit for food with the best treatment, or with the most approved curing and 
cooking of the meat. 

MEASLES. 

This is of quite frequent occurrence among swine, though it is ma- 
terially different in character from the disease in the human being to which 
the term is applied. It is essentially due to the presence of cysts in the 
muscles, in the tissues, in the eye, brain, and other parts, these cysts contain- 
ing worms which are believed to be the undeveloped form of the tape- 
worm which infests the human body, and which enters the hog's stomach 
when it eats the human excrement of privies or drinks water running there- 
from. It is claimed that the human stomach in turn receives the tape-worm 
when infested pork is eaten without being thoroughly cooked. These cysts 
can usually be seen if they are under the tongue or in the eye. If they are 
in the muscles and adjoining tissues, the animal will be in pain, and be stiff; 
if in the brain, there will be stupor or delirium, or both. 

Treatment. — When the cysts have once become imbedded in the 
organic structures, treatment is unavailing. An avoidance of the influences 
which give rise to the disorder, including the deposits about privies — which 
are not safe as a fertilizer where the hog runs — is the best mode of prevention, 
and this is the only safe treatment. 



THE HOG AND HIS DISEASES. 813 

NASAL CATARRH.— SNIFFLES. 

This is quite common in the hog, and is generally the result of exposure 
to cold and wet in the first instance, though it is not unfrequently inherited. 
It is characterized by the nasal discharge which attends colds in other ani- 
mals, and often by a discharge of blood from the nose; if the latter con- 
tinues long, the snout is deformed and drawn to one side. Though a tem- 
porary improvement may be noticed at times, the strength will give way if 
the bloody discharges recur often, and the case will be fatal. 

Treatment. — The disease usually advances so far before attention is 
paid to it that it will eventually be fatal in spite of treatment. Keep the 
animal in warm, dry quarters, and select the remedies mentioned for 
Catarrh in the Horse. One to three grains of sulphate of copper (blue 
vitriol) night and morning, in solution, may alone be enough, if it is long 
continued in connection with good care and food. 

PNEUMONIA.— RISING OF THE LIGHTS. 

Pneumonia, or inflammation of the lungs, is quite common among 
swine, and is very often fatal. It arises from exposure to damp and cold, 
bleak winds, and the like, and is prone to attack all the swine in the herd 
when it once appears — because all are equally exposed. The most prom- 
inent symptoms are loss of appetite, difficult breathing, heaving flanks, 
and an incessant and distressing cough. These should arouse suspicion 
when hogs have been unduly exposed, and treatment be resorted to at once. 

Treatment. — Appropriate the remedies prescribed for Pneumonia in 
the Horse, and observe the notes on general care in the same article. 

APOPLEXY. 

The chief causes of apoplexy in man or beast being high-feeding and ex- 
cess of fat, with inactivity, this disorder is of very frequent occurrence among 
swine, and it generally terminates in sudden death. Its approach is indi- 
cated by dullness and drooping, indisposition to move, staggering gait, wild 
eyes, absence of appetite, failure of sight, and general numbness. A par- 
tial recovery is often enjoyed, but repeated attacks will occur, and they 
often lead to brain fever. 

Treatment. — Adopt the treatment mentioned for the Horse if any 
time is afforded. Apoplexy sometimes invades the piggery like an epi- 
demic, and the exciting cause should be sought out and removed, increased 
exercise being especially needed in most cases. 



814 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

BRAIN FEVER.— FRENZY— MAD STAGGERS. 

As elsewhere remarked, brain fever often results from repeated attacks 
of apoplexy; but it may also be caused by over-feeding, especially with 
new corn or other heating articles; excessive heat; hard driving; insufficient 
water. Though there is some difference between brain fever and mad 
staggers, they are so similar in symptoms and treatment that they may 
properly be thus grouped. The symptoms which indicate its approach are 
similar to the first ones of apoplexy; then inflammation sets in and the 
animal runs wildly to and fro, and dashes against any object in its way. 

Treatment. — Adopt the treatment given for the Horse. 

EPILEPSY.— FITS. 

Epilepsy is quite rare in the hog, but far from unknown. It is ushered 
in by grunting, restlessness, quickened breathing and a staggering gait; 
then the animal suddenly falls and lies motionless a short time, after which 
convulsions come on, and increase in violence; the face is distorted, the neck 
curved, the legs alternately drawn to and extended from the belly very 
rapidly; the eyes protrude and turn about; the tongue is clenched between 
the teeth, the latter grinding together; the animal after a time regains con- 
sciousness, rises, timidly hides away for a few minutes, and then resumes 
his usual habits. 

Treatment. — Nothing can be done during a paroxysm, but some re- 
sults may be obtained in preventing a recurrence by insuring freedom from 
excitement, giving simple food, and keeping on the head cold applications, 
a cloth bound on the top being suitable. A pint of vinegar, two pints of 
water and one ounce of sal ammoniac make a good cold application. If 
one wishes to use internal remedies, they can be selected from those named 
for Epilepsy in the Horse. 

LOCK-JAW AND HYDROPHOBIA. 

These two disorders of the nervous system are thus grouped, not be- 
cause they are similar, but because it is only necessary to say, first, that 
they are somewhat common among swine — lock-jaw occurring especially 
after castration, particularly if high feeding is practiced, and hydrophobia 
being peculiarly apt to affect the sty because a rabid animal has such easy 
access to it; second, it is but necessary to name their symptoms and refer 
elsewhere for treatment. 

Lock-jaw is characterized by spasmodic movements of the head and 



THE HOG AND HIS DISEASES. 815 

legs, grinding teeth, stiffness of the jaws, these being soon followed by stiff- 
ness in the neck and the greater part of the whole body, and a peculiar 
elevated position of the head. If the animal survives the twelfth or 
eighteenth hour, there are good grounds for expecting a recovery. For 
treatment, refer to Lock-jaw in the Horse. 

Hydrophobia arises from the bite of a rabid dog, fox or other animal, 
and is at first characterized by dullness and continual licking of the bite; 
then the symptoms are very similar to those of a rabid dog, and the reader 
is referred, for fuller notes and treatment, to Hydrophobia in the Dog. 

COLIC AND INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

These two are mentioned together because one is easily mistaken for 
the other, though they are radically different, as shown by their symptoms. 
In colic, the animal is restless, utters cries of pain, and rolls on the ground; 
in inflammation of the bowels, the symptoms are dullness, loss of appetite, 
constipation, spasms, continued restless motion, staggering gait and other 
marks of pain. 

Treatment. — Select remedies and local applications from those 
given for Colic and Inflammation of the Bowels in the Horse. For inflam- 
mation of the bowels, in particular, provide warm baths, dry bedding, and 
general comfort. 

WORMS IN THE INTESTINES. 

Worms very often exist in the intestines, are very troublesome, and 
not unfrequently exceedingly fatal. Their presence may be inferred if the 
animal has a voracious appetite and yet continues lean and out of con- 
dition in general, coughs, runs restlessly about, utters cries of pain, snaps 
at other hogs or whatever animals are in reach. The dung is usually hard 
and high-colored, though diarrhoea is not uncommon; the urine sometimes 
whitish; the eyes sunken; weakness becomes more marked and is attended 
with symptoms similar to those in Colic; staggering and convulsions some- 
times ensue. 

Treatment. — Turpentine, a few drops to the dose, is very efficacious, 
and does not injure swine if given in proper quantities. Common salt, 
which is poisonous to hogs when given in large quantities in the food, is 
an excellent remedy when supplied in such a way that it can be licked at 
will. Cina and santonine are standard remedies in the treatment for worms. 
Tansy is also valuable. For tape-worm, put the hog on a fast, and then 
give felix mas or root of male shield-fern ; areca nut is only second to this, 



816 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

being especially suitable for weak animals. Provide clean quarters and 
wholesome food, and observe care in promoting a healthy condition of the 
stomach and bowels. Note the remarks on tape -worm under Measles. 

DISORDERS FOLLOWING CASTRATION AND SPAYING. 

It is useless in a work of this kind to give directions upon the various 
methods of performing these operations. They are matters of practice, to 
be learned by witnessing the operation. It may be said that boar-pigs 
should be castrated after the tenth day and before the third month is passed. 
The best age for operating on a sow-pig is perhaps six weeks. One should 
seek to have the pigs in good health at the time, and so far as possible 
choose weather that is neither very warm nor very cold, and preferably not 
wet. After the operation, it is well to confine the animals for a few days to 
keep them from getting into water and mud before the sore has healed. 
Provide good shelter, with plenty of clean bedding. Sour milk or whey 
and barley-meal make a good feed. High feeding after the operation is 
very unwise and dangerous. It is not unfrequently the case that the ani- 
mal, some time after the operation, evinces signs of lock-jaw (spasmodic 
motion of the head and of one or more legs, grinding of the teeth and stiff- 
ness of the jaws), and then the treatment for Lock-jaw is to be adopted. 

GENERAL MENTION OF DISORDERS. 

As remarked on a preceding page, the hog is subject to many disorders 
which are common to the horse, ox and sheep, and hence do not need sepa- 
rate treatment. Among them we mention Paralysis, a partial or complete 
loss of some of the members, as a leg; Diarrhoea, a simple looseness of 
the bowels as a result of improper food, a cold, or some constitutional dis- 
ease; Dysentery, or Bloody Flux, which is an inflammation or ulceration of 
the membranes of the intestines, attended with blood discharges, much 
pain, and rapid prostration; Stone in the Bladder; Inversion of the Blad- 
der; Inflammation and Enlargement of the Spleen; Protrusion of the 
Rectum; Erysipelas; Lice; Mange or Itch; Ruptures; Injuries in gen- 
eral. The most of these are readily recognized, and the reader will find 
their causes, symptoms and treatment sufficiently considered by reference 
to the articles upon the same disorders in the Horse. 



zEZtsriD o:f :p.^:r,t at. 



:p.a.:r,t -vi. 



THE DOG AND HIS DISEASES. 



PART VI 



THE DOG AND HIS DISEASES. 



INTRODUCTION. 



BY ARNOLD BURGES, A. M., HILLSDALE, MICH., 

Late Editor of the " American Sportsman," and Author of "The American 
Kennel and Sporting Field." 

ORIGIN AND TRAITS. 

N the origin of the dog scientific men have differed 
widely. By some he has been declared a de- 
scendant of the wolf, and by others of the fox 
or jackal, and points of resemblance, such as 
cranial development, period of gestation, peculiarity 
of the eyes or carriage of the tail, have been cited 
in support of each theory. Still other writers 
have claimed he is of a distinct breed, and have 
attempted to prove this by the assertion that, though 
he will breed with all of the above animals, the progeny of the cross 
are incapable of propagation inter se, thus proving they are true hybrids, 
or descendants of distinct species, it being a well-established principle that 
hybrids are sterile if bred together. This theory has, however, been 
completely refuted by observation of the dogs of the Indian tribes, as 
it has been proved beyond question that these cohabit with the wolves, 
foxes and coyotes, and that the progeny of these unions are as fertile 
as any others. From this fact modern authorities have come to the 
conclusion that the dog is a mongrel, descended from crosses between all 
the animals to which he bears resemblance, and raised to his present per- 
fection by selection and breeding for specific results. Animals in a state 
of nature vary but little if any from the original types, because they are 

819 




820 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

not subjected to any influences that would induce change. They dwell 
together according to their kind, often in packs or herds, and inbreed to a 
degree that would be ruinous but for the wise provision of nature which, 
through their ferocity and the law of force, secures the survival of the fit- 
test, and these, from the prepotency of past consanguineous unions and the un- 
varying character of life generation after generation, naturally reproduce 
the typical characteristics of the race. Domestication has changed other 
animals as radically as it has the dog. Climatic influences and the demand 
for new and different services, tending to induce breeders to develop classes 
capable of meeting these demands, are sufficient to account for even the 
variations in size and instinctive qualities which the dog of to-day displays. 
Upon any other theory it would be difficult to trace to a common ancestor 
such different types as the mastiff, weighing nearly two hundred pounds, and 
the toy-terrier, weighing only a few ounces; the setter, pointer, spaniel and 
hound, each instinctively taking to the pursuit of game, but each in different 
form from the others; the bull-dog, with his brutal instincts, and the New- 
foundland, with his amiable character and half-human intelligence. But when 
we remember that the most exaggerated specimens have been evolved from 
less-contrasting ancestors within the few years that fashion or special need 
has made them objects of desire, we can more easily regard them as abso- 
lute productions, and comprehend the effects of circumstances and influences 
extending back to the early ages of the world. 

The dog is, of all animals, essentially the friend and companion of man. 
From the earliest times of which we have any record we find him a dweller 
in the tent of his master, the playfellow of his children, his assistant in the 
chase, his guard at night, at all times a servant "faithful even unto death." 
The most ancient pictures and the sculpture of exhumed cities unite with 
poets and painters of modern times to commend his courage and devotion, 
and make the dog a synonym of constancy and zeal. Other animals share 
his servitude, and some may by circumstances or the peculiarities of their 
owners be admitted to companionship in a greater or less degree. The 
wild tribes of the desert necessarily depend upon their horses for both sub- 
sistence and safety in danger, and the love of an Arab for his horse, with 
the intelligence the latter acquires from the association, is well known to 
all who have read the history of the nomadic races. The cat is the favor- 
ite with some, but the cruelty and the treachery of his disposition unfit him 
for the general trust and affection given to the nobler dog. Individual fan- 
cies occasionally induce the admission of other animals into similar relations, 
but of all the brutes the dog alone is the ordinary associate of man, and a 
reasonable study of his habits and disposition will convince one that he is 
justly entitled to the distinction. 



THE DOG INTRODUCTION. 821 

DIVISION OF BREEDS. 

Custom has divided the dogs of the English-speaking countries into 
"sporting and non-sporting classes." The former comprehends all that are 
used with the gun, hounds, fox-terriers and dachshunde; the latter, watch- 
dogs, sheep or cattle dogs, terriers generally, toy dogs, and those which may 
be classed under the general term "miscellaneous." "Stonehenge," who is 
recognized as one of the best authorities, divides these sub-classes as fol- 
lows: The dogs used with the gun are setters, pointers, spaniels and retrie- 
vers. The hounds comprise the greyhound which hunts by sight, the blood- 
hound, foxhound, harrier, beagle and otter hound, all of which follow their 
game by scent. Fox-terriers are divided into the rough and smooth varie- 
ties, and the dachshund is identical with the German badger dog. Watch- 
dogs include the mastiff; bulldog; Newfoundland; Labrador and lesser 
Newfoundland; the St. Bernard and the Dalmatian or coach dog. The 
last Youatt says is "used in his native country for the chase," and Stone- 
henge says "without doubt the Dalmatian is a pointer when at home," but 
owing to the difference in his uses in his native country and elsewhere, 
Stonehenge adds, he "has always been included in our shows among the dogs 
not used in field sports, and for this reason I have classed him among the 
watch-dogs." The sheep and cattle dogs are the colly, the bob-tailed 
sheep dog, and the Pomeranian or Spitz which Stonehenge asserts is in his 
native country "employed as a sheep dog." Terriers are classed as rough 
and smooth, though there are also many which are properly described as 
nondescript, because, while possessing some of the attributes of certain 
breeds, they also differ too widely from the best types to be entered with 
them. The rough terriers are the Skye, both drop and prick eared; the 
Dandie Dinmont; the Bedlington; the Yorkshire and the Irish. The 
smooth varieties are the black and tan, or Manchester, the white English 
and the bull-terrier. The toy dogs, also divided into the rough and 
smooth, are first, the King Charles and Blenheim spaniels, the Maltese dog 
and the rough toy-terrier; second, the pug, the Italian greyhound and the 
smooth toy-terrier. In an appendix Stonehenge mentions the poodles, both 
French and Russian; the truffle dog; the Chinese crested dog and the Great 
Dane, these not being properly dogs of the British Isles. 

USES OF THE DOG. 

Field sports have existed in Great Britain from the earliest times. They 
have always been the prerogative of the aristocracy and wealthy class and 
have been protected by severe forest and game laws. Of old the keeping 



822 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

of certain breeds of hounds was limited by royal edict to those of royal 
blood and others who enjoyed the privilege by special grant from the crown. 
Dogs which were permitted to persons of lower degree were also the sub- 
jects of special legislation, and if caught in the forests were mutilated by 
the keepers by having some of their toes struck off to prevent them from 
running the king's deer. As the more liberal spirit of modern times abol- 
ished the feudal laws, dogs in all varieties became the property of all who 
chose to breed or keep them, but their employment in field sports is still 
possible only to those who own or rent shootings, as the right to game has 
not yet been made a popular one. There has been a great outcry of late 
over the restriction of game to the wealthy class, and doubtless this is in some 
respects a hardship, but it is also certain that, if thrown open to the public, 
field sports in Great Britain will soon become a thing of the past, since, 
from the demands of agriculture and the density of the population, game 
can only be kept up by artificial propagation and protection, entailing a 
heavy expense which wealthy men will not undertake when the sole right 
to the game is taken from them, and which the public cannot afford. Even 
as things are now, the use of pointers and setters has been almost discontin- 
ued over a large portion of England, as high farming has stripped the land 
of most of its cover for game, and the birds, from being constantly disturbed, 
have become so wild they will not lie to point. The moors of Scotland and 
Wales afford the best opportunities for shooting over pointers and setters, 
though on some of the large estates in England they are still used for 
partridges. 

Foreign pointers and setters are not allowed to retrieve, which necessi- 
tates the employment of a special breed for this purpose. At English 
shows there are classes for black and other than black retrievers. The 
former are the better liked for general work, and are divided into wavy and 
curly coated. Both are descended from the Labrador or lesser Newfound- 
land, either pure or cross-bred to the setter. Stonehenge says, "in the belief 
that the nose of the pure Labrador is inferior to that of the setter, 
I certainly should advise the cross-bred dog for use; but to be suc- 
cessful upon the show bench, the competitor should display as little as possi- 
ble of the setter." Size, to give them strength, is an essential in these 
dogs. Two noted prize winners were Mr. Gorse's Wyndhara, wavy coated, 
and Jet, curly coated. They weighed eighty-five and seventy pounds re- 
spectively. The class for other than black includes the liver-colored dog 
sometimes found in litters from black parents, the color indicating span- 
iel-cross. All these dogs, as well as the Irish water spaniel, are used for 
wild-fowl retrieving, and in Scotland, for trailing up wounded deer, the 
colly, pure or cross-bred, divides public favor with the deerhound. 



THE DOG INTRODUCTION. 823 

Spaniels are extensively bred in several different varieties, the chief be- 
ing the Clumber, bred at the seat of the Duke of Newcastle in Nottingham- 
shire, the Sussex, Cocker, and the English and Irish water spaniel; the 
water spaniels being used as retrievers, and the others for cover work on cock 
and pheasants, where beaters are not employed. 

The chase is a more general pursuit, being open to those who do not 
own or rent land but can afford horses and the other expenses incident to 
the sport. The fox, hare and stag are hunted on horseback, while beagles 
and otter hounds are followed on foot. In speaking of hounds, sporting 
law limits the name to bloodhounds, staghounds, foxhounds, harriers, bea- 
gles and otter hounds. Greyhounds are not included in the class because 
they run their game only by sight and are used for coursing. The deer- 
hound is not included because he is only used to find or retrieve wounded 
deer. Bloodhounds and staghounds are used for the stag, foxhounds for the 
fox, and harriers for the hare. Beagles are also used for hunting the hare, 
rabbits, or a drag, and otter hounds for the otter by the sides of the water- 
courses. Fox hunting is the national sport of England, and the number 
of packs kept is very large. A pack properly consists of twenty-five 
couples, but few are as large as this. They are kept up by subscription 
among the " members of the hunt," that is, those who habitually hunt with 
each pack. The pack is kept by one member, known as the " M. F. H.," 
or master of foxhounds, who appoints the " meets," and hunts the pack 
with the assistance of a huntsman and helpers known as whips. The 
huntsman has charge of the hounds in kennel, and when going to and 
returning from a hunt. 

Packs of staghounds are comparatively rare, as the stags are park- 
raised, and consequently less plentiful than foxes. One is known as Her 
Majesty's Pack, and a few others are kept up in different portions of 
England. Stonehenge says, " except in Devonshire and Somerset, the 
staghound is not allowed to kill his quarry, being whipped off as soon as 
the deer stands at bay." 

The harrier now differs from the foxhound but little in size and 
appearance, being, in fact, largely inbred to the latter dog. Of the harrier 
Stonehenge says, " breeders still take special care to have a combination of 
intelligence and high scenting power, sufficient to meet the wiles of the 
hare, which are much more varied than those of the fox." He also men- 
tions the pack of Sir Vincent Corbett as being the most beautiful he has 
ever seen, and claimed to be purely bred. 

Beagles afford great sport to those who like strong exercise on foot. 
The taste for this style of hunting is on the increase, and the packs conse- 
quently increasing in numbers. Stonehenge says, " foot beagles should not 



824 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

much exceed nine inches in height; but for 'young England' they are now 
often used up to eleven or even twelve inches, going a pace which requires 
a good runner in prime condition to keep up with them." He also men- 
tions the most celebrated pack in England as follows: "A diminutive pack 
of rabbit beagles, the property of Mr. Crane, of Southover House, near 
Bere Regis, Dorset, contains the best patterns we have ever known. Mr. 
Crane's standard is nine inches, and every little hound is absolutely perfect." 
This standard is kept up with great difficulty, owing to the inability of the 
dams to raise their whelps, and also to many deaths from distemper. 
Beagles were great favorites during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and 
were bred as small as possible. "A pack of the Virgin Queen's (it is said) 
could be carried in a man's glove." Stonehenge speaks very strongly of 
the benefit to be derived from beagle packs as training for fox hunting, and 
says: " We believe we are correct in stating that ten or more of the most 
celebrated masters of the day learnt their first lessons with the merry 
beagles." 

Otter hunting is followed during the summer, when most other sports 
of the field are out of season. Though popular, it is not extensively prac- 
tised, as otters are very destructive to fish, and so are destroyed whenever 
possible when frequenting noted fishing streams. In Cumberland and 
Devonshire there are many streams in which the fish are too small to afford 
much sport and here otter hunting is pursued with relish. There are also 
packs kept up by subscription at Carlisle and Northumberland, and several 
private packs in Wales. As in this sport there is a great amount of water 
work, it is essential that otter hounds shall have a rough, long coat, with 
an inner coat of thick, close wool, a point always regarded in breeding. 
They must also have very keen noses and deep, rich voices. 

To mention all classes of dogs as fully as I have spoken of those kept 
for sport would require more space than can be given to this article. I 
shall therefore pass the others over with very brief remarks and take up the 
matter of the breeds most used or kept in America. 

In the watch-dog class, the most prominent in point of size is the 
mastiff, which often weighs from one hundred and sixty to one hundred 
and eighty pounds, yet the gentleness of his disposition renders him a fit 
companion for children and ladies; in fact, some of the noted prize winners 
are owned by ladies, who take as much pride in their huge pets as others do 
in their toy terriers or delicate Italian greyhounds. 

The Newfoundland, to suit popular taste, must be black, though Sir 
Edward Landseer brought the black and whites into prominence through 
his paintings. The latter are not deemed purely bred, and are often ex- 
cluded from the regular classes and classed by themselves as " Landseers." 



THE DOG — INTRODUCTION. 825 

The St. Bernard has been imported to England, and is now very 
purely bred in both the smooth and rough varieties, though not such a 
general favorite as the mastiff or Newfoundland. 

The colly is probably more intelligent and highly educated than any 
other dog. By constant association with his master and daily participation 
in his labors he develops an amount of special knowledge and general 
intelligence almost inconceivable. No other dog is so intimately connected 
with his master's daily life, and without his aid sheep-tending upon the 
moors would be practically impossible. The well authenticated reports of 
the duties performed by collies read like romances, and certainly show in 
the strongest possible light the elevating influence which association with 
man exerts upon the brute creation. 

The terriers and toys are practically pets and house dogs. Many of 
them are highly intelligent, sharp and useful in their stations, while others 
simply serve to gratify their master's fancy. 

DOGS IN AMERICA. 

In this country field sports are matters of comparatively recent date. 
-Only a few years since a gentleman could not indulge in such pursuits 
without loss of business and social standing; but with the increase of wealth 
and consequently greater leisure, the love for sport natural to the Anglo- 
Saxon race has asserted itself, and proficiency in the field is now deemed a 
gentlemanly accomplishment. There is no country under the sun which 
affords more varied or better natural sporting facilities than our own. 
With an immense territorial area, crossed in every direction by railroads, 
with every variety of surface, from semi- wooded to prairie, mountain and 
forest, game of all kinds, from the snipe, woodcock, quail and grouse, 
to the deer, elk, buffalo and bear, are at the command of all who care to 
seek them. State associations and local sporting clubs foster the love for 
the field, and the desire for dogs worthy of such a country has led to the im- 
portation of the best specimens, and to competition in public at shows and 
trials. A few years since our dogs were, as a class, far inferior to those of 
England, owing to the greater care gentlemen there had taken to keep 
up their strains. The last decade, however, has seen a revolution wrought 
in kennel matters, and we can confidently expect to have in the near future 
as fine dogs as any in the world. 

There are reasons why field sports will never be carried to the extent 
they are practiced abroad, and for the scant foothold which some of them 
will gain in popular favor. In the first place, they are here open to all, and 
as rich men are everywhere the exception, it follows that comparatively 



826 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

few Americans can afford the costly appointments necessary for such 
development as these sports have attained to with the wealthy class of the 
mother countrv. Then, too, our trespass laws and the rights of land owners 
will prove an insurmountable obstacle to fox hunting proper. No man will 
stand the rush of a pack over his fields and the trampling of his crops and 
breaking of fences bv horsemen. In England the hunt is supported by the 
class that owns the land, those who farm it being tenants. It is, too, a time- 
honored institution which all have been taught to regard with pride as a 
national sport. Here nothing of the kind exists; we have no class distinc- 
tions, and the man who owns a single acre is as strongly defended by the 
law as his wealthy neighbor who owns a thousand. It will therefore be 
practicailv impossible ever to gain popular consent to the establishment of 
a sport which so large a portion of the communitv will deem prejudicial to 
its interests; and even if in certain localities of the Eastern States hunting 
is followed bv a few clubs, it will never become widely spread or generally 
popular. 

The natural sequence of such limitation in ^port is that certain varie- 
ties of dogs are either not at all or but little used in this country. We have 
but very few retrievers, because a majority of our sportsmen keep but one 
dog and break that one to retrieve as well as point. On certain parts of the 
coa>t, and by the great rivers and lakes, men who make a practice of wild- 
fowl shooting keep clogs for retrieving, as water work when the weather 
is cold is very hard on ordinary field dogs, whose coats are not suited for it; 
but through a great portion of the West even this shooting is had under 
circumstances that admit of the use of field dogs. 

The hound class is also a small one, and maae up of few varieties. 
Foxhounds are broken to follow all kinds of furred game, according to the 
section in which such dogs are kept. Deer, foxes, and the hare, commonly 
called rabbit, are all killed before dogs of the same breed, and consequently 
there is no demand for those used abroad for each variety of sport. Beagles 
have been brought out of late, and our shows call together some fine speci- 
mens. Thev are however little used in the field, nor will they probably be 
so ions; as the larger hound is so generally useful. 

The greater part of our sporting is done over setters and pointers. 
These are now bred from the best strains obtainable from crack English 
kennels, and single dogs costing $1,000 or upward have been imported by 
both clubs and private individuals. The setter is best adapted to general 
-Dorting, as his coat and spaniel-origin fit him for work which the pointer is 
comparativelv ill-suited for. There are three great divisions of the setter 
familv, viz.: The English, Irish, and Gordon, each differing materially from 
the others, and each with its warm friends and supporters among sportsmen. 



THE DOG — INTRODUCTION. 827 

The pointers have no such natural division, but, though of one general race, 
they are divided into different classes according to size in show classification. 
Certain families, too, have their own colors, or rather colors to which the 
representatives of those strains closely conform, and which therefore serve 
as family marks. From his thin coat and indifference to heat the pointer is 
specially suited for work on dry prairies, or in the extreme Southern States. 
His advocates proclaim him the equal of the setter in all ways and places, 
but this is not the general opinion, and he is consequently not as common 
as his long-haired rival. Field spaniels are used by a few sportsmen who 
like their style of work in cover, but taking the country through, these dogs 
might be included in the non-sporting classes without seriously affecting our 
sporting interests. 

The non-sporting classes are always well represented in shows, and are 
growing in favor daily. Within a few years most varieties of terriers and 
toy dogs have been introduced into the country, and good specimens of the 
mastiff and Newfoundland are becoming quite common. Sheep dogs are 
deservedly coming into favor, and will soon be largely bred for use on farms 
and cattle ranches. Trials similar to those abroad have recently been insti- 
tuted, and the colly will become an important factor of our canine population. 

DISEASES AND CARE OF DOGS. 

Domestication, by inducing an artificial life, has naturally had in some 
ways a bad effect upon all animals subjected to it. The dog in a state of 
nature has probably but few ills apart from those consequent upon old age; 
but when domesticated, and especially when finely bred, he suffers from 
many diseases similar to those of man, and requiring similar treatment. 
When dogs were worth but a few dollars there was nothing to induce scien- 
tific men to study their ills, but with their present values, and especially with 
the interest awakened in them by the love for the field, which is shared as 
well by medical men as by others, the attention of the faculty has been 
called to the treatment of canine diseases, and they are fast approaching the 
point when they will be as well understood as those of any other class of 
patients. 

Dogs need comfortable quarters, good food, combining meat, vegetables 
and breadstuffs in due proportion, and also plenty of exercise. The latter 
is more generally neglected than the former, and to such neglect is due most 
of the ills from which dogs suffer. Properly attended to, dogs cost but little 
trouble, and repay this a thousand-fold. 



828 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.* 

HYDROPHOBIA.— RABIES.— MADNESS. 

This fearful malady is liable to occur in any dog, and is therefore a 
source of dread to many people when near one of the species. It results 
from a specific virus which passes into the system by infection, whether bv a 
bite or by any other means of introduction through a break in the skin or 
mucous membrane. The most playful bite of an affected animal has the 
same effect as a malicious one. It affects either sex, not the male only, as 
has been supposed. It is more prevalent in winter and the damp cold 
weather of spring, and is not, in any se?ise, peculiar to "dog davs'' and 
other hot weather, as is popularly believed. 

Symptoms. — The wound from the bite rapidly heals, usually without 
inflammation. During a period thereafter, varying from three weeks to 
eight months, though usually not more than six weeks, no symptoms are 
noticeable. The disease, after this period, will develop in one of two 
forms, the violent or the sullen, a distinction too often unobserved. In the 
violent form, after the weeks of incubation, the animal is sullen for a few 
hours, or even three or four days; then is irritable or violently mad for three 
or four davs, and in the third stage becomes more calm, weaker, and dies 
after being in this stage a few days. In the sullen form, the dog passes 
through the first and third of the stages just indicated, the violent period 
being absent or being much less marked by excitement, motion and biting. 
The absence of this violence should not be considered proof that hydro- 
phobia does not exist. Mr. Youatt, who is widely quoted as the highest 
authority on this malady in dogs, has epitomized the detailed symptoms in 
the two forms substantially as follows: 

i. In the violent form, after the period of sullenness, which lasts a 
few hours, possibly davs, there are increased sensitiveness and muscular activ- 
ity, a disposition to bite, and a continued peculiarity i?i the bark, the last 
being a very noticeable indication. The animal becomes changed in habits 
and disposition, licks or carries stones, sticks, and like substances, is restless and 
snaps in the air, though still obedient and kind to his master. Soon the appe- 
tite is disgustingly depraved, so that the urine and excrement from the bowels 
are eaten, or there is a loss of appetite and thirst; swelling of the tongue 
and mouth; redness, dullness, and half-closing of the eye^: wrinkling of 
the skin on the forehead; roughness and staring of the hair; unsteadiness 
and staggering in the gait; periodic biting, snapping immediately after ap- 

* Read the remarks on "Anatomy and Physiology " page 539. 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 829 

pearing quiet and kind. In the latter stages, paralysis takes place in the 
limbs; spasms affect breathing and swallowing; the external surface 
becomes irritable, and sensitiveness is increased ; convulsions may come on. 
These symptoms come and go, with periods of comparative health between 
them, and are often excited by touch, sight or hearing, especially by seeing 
or hearing another dog. 

2. The sullen form is marked by shyness and depression, with no in- 
clination to bite, and no dread of fluids. The dog is unnaturally quiet, 
depressed in spirits, haggard and suspicious, refusing food and seeking close 
retirement. The breathing is hard; the bark rough, harsh and changed in 
tone; the lower jaw drops down, the tongue hangs out and saliva constantly 
flows, the dog perhaps seeming to try to paw it off the lips; the breathing 
grows more labored; there are trembling, vomiting and convulsions. 

It should be noticed that, not only are the violent symptoms absent in 
some cases, or much reduced, but there is not the inevitable repulsion to 
water which is almost universally supposed to exist, and which gave rise to 
the name hydrophobia, that is, " dread of water." That the animal may 
be thrown into violent spasms at the sight of water, after swallowing has 
become difficult op impossible, is undoubtedly true in many cases, but not 
always. When it is the case, it is a result of involuntary muscular action, 
and not of a conscious dread of the water; for thirst may be pronounced in 
this disease. It has even been reported that, in the fever-stage, a mad dog 
has been known to plunge his head into water, as if to cool himself. Hence, 
the test of placing water before a dog suspected of infection is not reliable. 
Besides, if the sight of water does produce spasms, it is only in the more 
violent stages, when other symptoms are quite as marked. Again, the 
frothing at the mouth is not so frequent as is supposed, indeed, not as certain 
to occur as in epilepsy, or when the jaw is paralyzed. The tail carried 
between the legs is a symptom not so significant as most people suppose, 
for it is quite as often elevated. 

Treatment. — To prevent the development of the disease, as soon as 
the bite has been inflicted thrust down into it some small iron or other 
metal raised to a red (better white) heat, not merely a black heat, until a 
thorough searing of the flesh all around the wound has been effected. A 
point of lunar caustic (nitrate of silver) may be used for such cauterization, 
but is not so good as the iron. If neither is at hand, grasp the wound with 
the fingers and forcibly squeeze it so as to drive the blood from the bottom, 
carefully avoiding contact of the blood with any break in the skin, repeat- 
ing a few times to remove all the poison if possible. It is always best to 
apply a ligature close to the bite, on the side toward the heart. If the bite 
has not been cauterized, wash it at once with cold water, putting in a few 



830 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

drops of belladonna if it is at hand, and cauterize it as soon as practicable. 
After cauterization, keep on compresses of water and belladonna until the 
wound is thoroughly healed, and give a drop of belladonna internally every 
day or alternate day for six weeks. 

If a dog only suspected of being bitten by a mad animal has bitten 
any person or beast, keep him confined until the full period of development 
of the disease has passed (even up to eight months), so that all doubt as to 
whether the person or beast has been infected may be removed, meanwhile 
giving the patient belladonna internally as directed above. Otherwise, a 
suspected dog should be killed, unless he has a special value. Any vicious, 
snapping cur, as being specially liable to madness, should be killed. Of 
course, a dog known to be mad will be immediately killed. If any person 
has been bitten by an infected or suspected dog, see Hydrophobia in Man. 

DISTEMPER. 

Distemper seems almost like an inborn disease with most dogs, and 
more frequently develops in superior breeds. It is most common in pups, 
which are also more apt to recover. It comes on more often in the spring 
and autumn, in the latter of these more often than in the former. If it 
results from a natural predisposition, those animals are more susceptible 
to its development which are kept housed; those also which have flesh-food, 
are more liable to it than those not having it. The primary symptoms, 
which usually escape notice at first, are general dullness; failing appetite and 
flesh; short cough and vomiting; impatience at being disturbed; watery 
eyes, pained by light. Later, the animal shivers fitfully; persistently seeks 
a hiding-place; has a more rapid pulse; matter accumulates on the eyelids 
and finally glues them together, and a yellowish mucus obstructs the 
nostrils; cough grows more frequent, with very offensive vomiting; in- 
creased shivering; rapid wasting of the body; hot skin; warm paws; 
standing, dull coat. In about a week apparent improvement sets in. A 
renewal of the disease will very probably occur, with aggravated symptoms, 
such as weakness in the hind legs, the dog after some days dragging himself 
along, though not often when older than one year. In this condition there 
may be another apparent improvement, but a relapse is pretty certain, 
with intensified force. If the eyes are still blood-shot, and the flesh con- 
tinues reduced, there is danger yet. In fatal cases, death generally occurs 
the third or fourth week, six weeks being the common duration of other 
attacks. 

Treatment. — Nux vomica alone has cured many cases, if given in 
the first stage, as it always should be, when there is loss of appetite, with 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 831 

watery discharge from the nose, cough, vomiting, and constipation. Give 
belladonna if the eyes are inflamed, watery and sensitive to light, and for 
dry nose, twitching of muscles, the animal trying to hide and starting when 
asleep. Arsenicum is needed for loss of strength, flesh and appetite, thick, 
offensive, perhaps bloody nasal discharge, and for diarrhoea. Phosphorus 
is invaluable for quick breathing, offensive sticky discharge in the eyes, 
painful cough; bloody froth in the mouth, and paralysis of any parts. 
Give sulphur for symptoms which return after an apparent recovery,* and 
sustain the strength with tonics, as gentian, quinine and Fowler's Solution. 
In the way of diet, which is always of the first importance, give cold milk, 
rice, coarse bread, and an abundance of cold, fresh water. Avoid animal 
food, grease, sugar and dainties. Observe absolute cleanliness. Keep the 
bed away from the fire, but let it be warm and airy, the bedding being hay 
or straw, changed every day, and always being dry. 

APOPLEXY. 

Apoplexy is a sudden partial or complete loss of consciousness and 
power of motion, and may attack any dog, though pet dogs, if kept fat, 
are peculiarly subject to it. It is caused by pressure on the brain from ab- 
normal flooding of the blood-vessels. At first there may be drowsiness, a 
staggering walk, and twitching of some muscles; but the attack may be sud- 
den, the dog falling quickly, immovable and apparently dying, though he 
generally revives in a few hours. 

Treatment. — The treatment will be found under Apoplexy in the 
Horse. Rich and over-abundant food and luxurious housing tend to an ex- 
cess and impurity of the blood most favorable to apoplexy. A simpler 
habit of life is highly important. 

PARALYSIS. 

Paralysis is a loss of power and feeling in certain muscles, and is caused 
by injury, diseased brain, sexual excess, rheumatism, distemper, mange, or 
inflammation of the bowels. Though it may affect any of the muscles, or 
even the whole body, it usually attacks the hind legs, the dog dragging 
them while he walks with the fore legs. 

Treatment. — Give nux vomica if the cause is not known, or if there 
be constipation and vomiting. When paralysis follows unusual exertion, ex- 
posure to wet, rheumatism or mange, give rhus. Insure perfect quiet and 
good food. Rubbing the paralyzed parts with the hand is beneficial. If 
the case is bad and persistent, kill the dog. 



832 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

EPILEPSY. 

Epilepsy is a sudden and violent spasm of the muscles, lasting ten 
minutes or more. It is usually hereditary, though it may result from an 
injury to the head, disorders in teething, eating too much raw flesh, and 
worms in the bowels. 

In an attack the animal suddenly staggers and falls, often with a dis- 
tressing bark; violently struggles; foams at the mouth, perhaps with blood 
flowing from bites on the tongue; the legs generally grow stiff; the eyes 
roll wildly; the face twitches. Consciousness gradually returns, and the 
dog seems perfectly well until another attack comes on. 

Treatment. — Use the remedies prescribed for Epilepsy in the Horse. 
All food given to a dog subject to epilepsy should be cooked. During an 
attack, keep a stick between the jaws to prevent biting of the tongue. 

CANKER IN THE MOUTH. 

This is a very troublesome disorder, and if the disease result from 
long-continued irritation, or be in an old dog, it is deemed incurable. Its 
symptoms are swollen gums, discharging blood; offensive matter; proud 
flesh; bleeding; difficulty in eating; loss of appetite, flesh and strength. 

Treatment. — In recent cases, or in young dogs of general good 
health, wash out the mouth once daily for several days with a solution of 
two grains of nitrate of silver to four ounces of water, using a tooth-brush 
in the application. Hydrastis, internally and externally, may be good. 

SALIVATION.— SLOBBERS. 

An overdose of mercury, or the use of mercurial ointments for skin 
disorders, sometimes produces salivation, of which the symptoms are 
swollen gums and lips, loose teeth, swollen and red tongue, profuse and 
constant flow of saliva from the mouth, very offensive breath, easy falling 
of hair, diarrhoea and straining. 

Treatment. — Give two drops of nitric acid three times a day. 
Wash the mouth out with warm water and honey. Keep the dog in a 
warm, dry place, with clothing if necessary to comfort, and feed him well. 

INDIGESTION. 

Indigestion may result from overfeeding, improper food, want of ex- 
ercise or reduced vitality. Its symptoms are restlessness; reduced appetite; 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 833 

frequently attempted vomiting, generally with little thrown out, and that 
being froth and green fluid; foul breath; irregular action of the bowels; 
distended belly, poor or depraved appetite ; rolling on the ground. 

Treatment. — Give nux vomica for vomiting of frothy, green fluid; 
constipation; drowsiness; useful also for pet dogs. Pulsatilla is valuable 
for cases resulting from rich food ; flatulence ; especially for delicate, high- 
bred dogs with a tendency to diarrhoea. Insure regular exercise, and 
wholesome, digestible food in only moderate quantities. 

VOMITING. 

Vomiting is such an easy matter for a dog that it not only occurs as a 
frequent symptom of some disease, but even when food disagrees only a 
little with the animal. In the slight troubles last named, it needs no atten- 
tion unless it be often repeated. 

Treatment. — If vomiting occurs daily for some time, change the 
food. If it then persists, use remedies. Creosote is needed for continual 
vomiting, unsuccessful attempts at vomiting, and vomiting while in pup. 
Cocculus is needed for nausea after eating, and small quantities thrown out; 
and ipecac for throwing out all the meal soon after eating, as well as for 
diarrhoea or dysentery. Provide good food and outdoor exercise. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.— GASTRITIS. 

This is caused by damp lodgings, drinking cold water when heated, 
rich food, indigestion, and poisons. The dog evinces great pain ; throws 
himself down, I'olls and kicks; lies on any cold surface; constantly craves 
water, but throws it up as soon as it is swallowed; retching; cold extremi- 
ties; dry, hot nose; quick breathing; anxious countenance. 

Treatment. — Give no food or drink but cold water, until all symp- 
toms disappear; then, for several days, only cold milk, oatmeal-gruel, and 
the like. Choose remedies from those given for Gastritis in the Horse. If 
poisons are the cause, they are to be removed and antidotes given as 
directed under Gastritis in the Horse, and in the Index of Poisons. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS.— ENTERITIS. 

This painful disorder results from drinking cold water when the dog is 

heated, sudden changes to cold or damp weather, damp, shady lodgings, 

too constant use of animal food, colic, constipation, foreign bodies in the 

bowels, and the like. The symptoms are very active, such as hot, very 

53 



834 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tender abdomen; constant violent pain, sometimes causing the dog to throw 
himself violently down, howl, spring up, walk about, and again throw him- 
self; these violent actions continue until relief is given, or, in fatal cases, 
subside just before death. There is no appetite, but constant thirst, and 
constipation followed by loose, bloody evacuations. 

Treatment. — Apply fomentations of hot water to the abdomen un- 
til the symptoms abate. Allow the dog to lap cold water. After the se- 
vere symptoms subside, give milk and broth, but no solid food until re- 
covery is established. The remedies are named under Enteritis in the Horse. 

DYSENTERY. 

Dysentery is caused by exposure to cold, bad food, damp lodgings, 
worms, stagnant water for the drink. The symptoms are shivering at first; 
hot skin; quick, small pulse; short, hurried breathing; vomiting; the dog 
turns his head to his flanks, the body being tucked up and the loins arched; 
afterward, loose bowels, with almost constant straining to empty them, re- 
sulting in watery evacuations containing blood and lumps. 

Treatment. — Give mercurius corrosivus if the evacuations are 
bloody, with great straining before and after them. Arsenicum is needed 
for constant thirst, great weakness, with trembling of the limbs when 
lying down, and very offensive evacuations; hamamelis, for black evacua- 
tions followed by much bleeding. Sulphur often effects a cure after other 
remedies have failed. Keep the bed warm and dry and feed a cold diet, as 
milk, rice and milk, and the like, but no solid food before recovery. Mut- 
ton-broth will often alone effect a cure, without resort to any medicines. 

COLIC— GRIPES. 

Colic, or spasm of the intestines, is caused by cold, constipation, bad 
diet, worms, and, in puppies, by disordered milk of the mother. It is 
marked bv fitful pains, the dog turning, rolling and moaning, such spells 
being followed by perfect ease. 

Treatment. — Xux vomica is needed for constipation and short 
spasms. Relief will often be afforded by injections of warm water; also 
by applving to the belly pieces of flannel wrung out in hot water. 

CONSTIPATION. 

This is caused bv improper food, want of exercise, and deficient secre- 
tion of digestive fluids. It is both a symptom of many diseases and leads to 



THE DOG — DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 835 

many. In addition to the frequent unsuccessful efforts to empty the bowels, 
there will be restlessness; flatulence; colic; hot, dry nose. 

Treatment. — Medicines may be selected from those given for Con- 
stipation in the Horse. Use repeated injections of warm water, first 
thoroughly removing all hard faeces that may be near the anus. If consti- 
pation is habitual in an animal, look well to the diet. A small quantity of 
raw meat once daily may correct the trouble. Other articles suitable as 
diet are well boiled oatmeal porridge, coarse flour cakes, meat boiled in 
water to a thick porridge. Insure free outdoor exercise. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 

This is a common disease among dogs, generally in a chronic form, 
and is especially frequent in over-fed and much-petted animals. It is 
caused by cold, damp, want of exercise, excessive heat, and injuries. The 
symptoms are much varied, among them being shivering, followed by in- 
creased heat in the skin; desire for retirement; loss of appetite and flesh; 
thirst; cough, followed by vomiting of yellow or greenish fluid, perhaps 
tinged with blood ; yellow hue on the lips, eyes, ears and, later, the whole 
skin; wasting may reduce the animal to a pinched-up skeleton in fatal cases. 

Treatment. — Treat the same as Inflammation of the Liver in the 
Ox. Give only cooked food, in small quantities and regularly. If, how- 
ever, the animal is not prized as a pet, its cure will scarcely be worth the 
pains required, even if one knows what the disorder is. 

WORMS. 

Worms are found in dogs almost universally. Three kinds exist in the 
intestines, most likely introduced in the food and drink, namely, the round 
worm, resembling the earth-worm, which sometimes passes up into the 
stomach and is vomited up; the maw- worm, resembling a short piece of 
white thread; the tape-worm, of great length, formed in segments or joints. 
Each kind is likely to cause some special symptoms. The first one, for ex- 
ample, in addition to the general indications named below, may even pass 
up through the throat into the nose and cause much irritation. The maw- 
worm produces itching at the rectum. The tape-worm causes colic, con- 
vulsions, distension of the abdomen, constipation, and inflammation of the 
bowels. While the discharge of worms is an unmistakable symptom, their 
presence is also indicated by dullness, restlessness, depression, bad temper, 
short, dry cough, offensive breath, appetite variable, often enormous, dry, 
shaggy hair, loss of flesh, constipation or diarrhoea. 



836 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Cina is the most valuable general remedy, and is alone 
often sufficient. Urtica urens is to be given when the dog slides along on 
his haunches, or when maw-worms are known to exist. Another good 
treatment for maw-worms is a daily injection of a half-ounce of garlic poured 
on two ounces of boiling water, the fluid being cooled and strained before it 
is used. Felix mas is especially efficacious for tape- worm. Santonine is in- 
valuable for round worms when other remedies fail. Sulphur may bene- 
ficially follow other remedies. An entire change of diet may be necessary, 

CHOKING. 

In eating, the dog may be troubled by a piece of bone, gristle, or other 
substance lodging in the throat. He coughs, is restless, can not swallow, 
seems to be trying to remove the obstruction with his paw, while mucus es- 
capes from the nose and mouth, and the eyes are red and prominent. 

Treatment. — Open the mouth as wide as possible and pour in warm 
water until the dog vomits. This may remove the obstruction. If it fails, 
draw it out with forceps, if it is within reach. Should these expedients fail, 
use a piece of whalebone, or smooth, tough stick, protected at the end with 
a piece of sponge dipped in oil, to push the obstructing body into the stom- 
ach. If all such means are unsuccessful, a skillful operator may open the 
oesophagus. If this canal is known to be injured, or if there has been con- 
siderable effort made in the removal of the obstruction, give arnica two or 
three times a day for several days, a milk diet being meanwhile provided. 

INFLAMMATORY FEVER. 

Dogs of all breeds and ages, but especially when from one to three 
years old, are subject to inflammatory fever. Though it is usually the re- 
sult of some inflammation, internal or external, it may be caused by any 
sudden changes in the temperature of the body, or by unusual excitement. 
At first, the animal is very sluggish and drowsy, afterward showing ex- 
treme restlessness, much thirst, quick, hard pulse, rapid breathing, swollen, 
watery eyes, burning heat all over, dry, hot nose and mouth, increasing^ 
restlessness, perhaps unconsciousness. 

Treatment. — Give aconite at first, especially for dry, furred tongue; 
great thirst; thick, dark urine. It will often effect a cure. Arsenicum is 
needed for hot, dry nose; extreme thirst; high heat of the body, especially 
in the legs and feet. Belladonna is useful for much restlessness and uncon- 
sciousness. Opium is needed for a sluggish state, and arnica when an in- 
jury is the cause. Avoid extreme changes of temperature. 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 837 

PUTRID AND NERVOUS FEVER. 

If shut up in dirty lodgings, or fed on damaged or decaying food, or if 
subjected to undue heat or effort, dogs may be attacked with this form of 
fever. The symptoms are loss of appetite; restlessness; fitful shivering; 
dull, heavy look; starting; howling; spasms; eager thirst; quick, small 
pulse; high-colored urine passed in small quantities; offensive excretions of 
the skin and bowels; death in a few days, if not early treated. 

Treatment. — Aconite is highly useful in the first stages for fever, 
restlessness, and offensive, high-colored urine. Gelseminum is needed for 
sudden weakness, loss of motion, and jerking of muscles. Give belladonna 
for glistening eyes, hanging tongue, and unconsciousness. Furnish dry, 
cool lodgings, with frequent supplies of cold water. Give small allowances 
of cold milk, with a little bread in it if the animal will eat it. 

SMALL-POX. 

This is more common in young dogs, and results from contagion. The 
symptoms are fever; patches without hair, becoming red, then covered -with 
small spots, like insect-bites, which increase and grow pale in the center, 
with a red circle around the edge. In five or six days these spots contain a 
clear fluid, which soon turns yellow, the tops become hollow, and then 
break. Scabs form and fall off. The breath and excrement are disgusting. 
A return of appetite, with cool, moist nose, indicates recovery. But the 
animal should be killed at once if the symptoms progress, the nose being hot, 
tongue hanging, thirst great, breathing hard, with constipation and increased 
color in the spots; or if the spots do not rise above the skin, or if they run 
together. 

Treatment. — Antimonium tartaricum is desirable when the eruption 
is clearly seen; belladonna for delirium; mercurius if saliva fills the mouth, 
and if there be bad breath and diarrhoea. A dose or two of sulphur is de- 
sirable to complete a successful treatment. Furnish cool, airy lodgings, 
without draughts; sprinkle the place often with carbolic acid. Change the 
bedding every day, and burn it, with evacuations of the bowels. 

RHEUMATISM. 

Stiffness and tenderness of the fore legs and chest in dogs are known 
as rheumatism, and are especially common in those kept for the house or 
sporting. It is caused by sudden cold or dampness, plunging into water 
when hot, a cold, wet bed, and over-exercise. It is marked by stiff fore legs 



838 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and shoulders, with hard, tender muscles of the chest; swollen, hot, tender 
knees; hastened breath; poor appetite; dry, hot nose; howling upon put- 
ting the foot down. 

Treatment. — Select medicines from those given for Rheumatism in 
the Horse. Give no meat diet, and keep the animal warm, dry and out of 
bad weather. 

COLD— CATARRH.— SNIFFLES. 

This is usually in the form of an inflammation of the mucous mem- 
brane of the nose, occurring especially in dogs that are kept in warm lodg- 
ings. It may end in distemper, bronchitis, or other disorders of the respi- 
ratory organs. Its chief cause is change of temperature, and its symptoms 
are running discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, failing appetite, 
hastened breathing, dullness, heaviness, sleepiness. 

Treatment. — Give aconite at first, for quick breathing, shivering, 
hot surface, and uneasiness; nux vomica for sneezing, dry cough, loss of 
appetite, thirst, unsuccessful attempts at vomiting, and constipation. Mer- 
curius is needed for thick, clogging discharge from the nostrils, nose alter- 
nately hot and cold, eyes inflamed and glued together, and swelling of the 
throat. Keep the animal constantly in a warm place a day or two, feeding 
him milk or thin oatmeal-gruel, with plenty of water to drink. Sponge 
the nose with tepid water several times daily. 

SORE THROAT. 

Damp lodgings or sudden exposure to cold when heated will produce 
sore throat. The first symptoms are sneezing and hoarse cough, followed 
by alternate heat and cold in the ears and nose; noisy breathing; swelling 
about the jaws and throat; difficult swallowing; the swelling may extend to 
the front of the neck and, if very bad, cause suffocation. 

Treatment. — Aconite is to be given at the beginning for fever and 
difficult breathing. Then choose remedies from the list given for Sore 
Throat in the Horse. Frequently apply to the throat cloths dipped in hot 
water, and give cold water to drink at short intervals. The diet should consist 
of milk and broths. Keep the dog in a warm, dry place, free from draughts. 

ASTHMA. 

This disorder, characterized by alternate periods of fever and difficult 
breathing, occurs most frequently in fat and petted dogs, as a result of close 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 839 

confinement, over-feeding, and want of outdoor exercise. It begins with a 
cough, so slight and irregular in recurrence that it is likely to escape notice, 
but growing more frequent, annoying, dry, harsh, and sounding as if there 
was choking; changes in temperature or food aggravate the cough, so that 
it is nearly incessant, disturbs sleep, and causes nausea and discharges of 
mucus from the respiratory organs; the breathing is disordered, perhaps 
painful; digestion deranged ; appetite failing or morbid; breath offensive; 
hair shaggy ; skin mangy. The animal may succumb to suffocation or to ex- 
haustion from coughing; may be seized with convulsions; or, more com- 
monly, is attacked by dropsy (to the treatment of which the reader should 
refer in such cases), though suffocation will generally follow this issue of 
asthma. 

Treatment. — Treat promptly in the beginning; if not, a cure will 
not be effected, though relief can be given in later stages. Give nux 
vomica every four hours on the days when there is an aggravation of the 
symptoms; at other times, give arsenicum three times daily. For par- 
oxysms of difficult breathing, with inclination to vomit, give ipecac every 
three or four hours during the paroxysms. Provide the best and most 
nutritious food, in small quantities, but often. Secure daily exercise in the 
open air, except in cold, damp or sultry weather. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Bronchitis is an inflammation, acute or chronic, of the mucous mem- 
brane of the lungs, caused by sudden changes in temperature, draughts of 
air in the lodgings, or standing in the cold when heated. Its first symptoms 
resemble those of cold, namely, shivering and short, hard cough; later, a con- 
stant, distressing cough, dry at first, then with sticky mucus; symptoms of 
fever; quickened pulse and breathing; dullness; failing appetite; anxious 
look in the face; nose hot and dry at the commencement, but moist when 
inflammation subsides. In chronic cases, there is a cough during the winter, 
coming on after changes in the weather, and attended with short breath and 
wheezing. 

Treatment. — The appropriate remedies can be readily selected from 
those prescribed for Bronchitis in the Horse. During treatment keep the 
dog in the house, in a warm temperature. Milk and bread are the best diet, 
flesh being especially avoided. Supply fresh water all the time. Meat- 
broth may be given to old dogs that are very weak. The disease is one to 
which the dog is more liable than is generally supposed. It may often be 
avoided by a proper sheltering of an animal after it has become heated by 
a hard run. 



840 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS.— PNEUMONIA. 

Pneumonia, a frequent affection in dogs, is an inflammation of the sub- 
stance of the lungs, and is thus different from bronchitis, which affects only the 
mucous membrane. It is caused by sudden exposure to cold, bathing with- 
out drying carefully, clipping in bad weather, and sometimes by distemper, 
catarrh and bronchitis. The symptoms are quite marked: At first, shiver- 
ing; tender sides; short, painful cough; fore legs wide apart; pulse quick and 
hard in the beginning, but becoming gentler and not easily felt; nose hot and 
dry, with inside membrane redder than normal; hanging tongue; breathing 
hurried and labored; the animal sits on his haunches, with the head 
stretched out and mouth open, and seldom lies down. The lungs may 
completely fill up, giving a dull, heavy sound if struck. 

Treatment. — Give aconite, at first, for hot skin, quick and obstructed 
breathing, full, quick pulse, and shivering. Camphor is useful for shivering, 
dullness, small, quick pulse, and hurried breathing. A short, dry cough, 
with grunting at every breath, calls for bryonia. Bromine is useful if it is 
known that the air-tubes are filling up, or if the inflammation keeps up and 
threatens suppuration. Use it internally and by inhalation. Furnish a dry, 
warm bed, but not in a warm, close room. Insure fresh air, free from cold 
and draughts. Use covering if the weather is cold. Give fresh, cold water, 
milk, gruel and broth, avoiding solid food. 

PLEURISY. 

This is an inflammation of the membrane which lines the cavity of the 
chest, and may result from cold and wet, atmospheric changes, or distem- 
per, or it may be a complication of pneumonia. There is first shivering, 
then fever, twitching of the muscles, short, quick, irregular breathing, pain- 
ful, suppressed cough, and pain from pressing the side. The dog stands or 
sits all the time. Swelling on the legs, chest and belly indicates the super- 
vention of dropsy in the chest. 

Treatment. — Choose remedies from those given for Pneumonia in 
the Horse, and observe the same particulars as to lodgings, clothing and food 
as were mentioned for Pneumonia in the last article above. 

COUGH. 

Nearly always a cough is symptomatic of disease, and when it appears, 
should be compared with the cough noted in each of the diseases of the 
respiratory organs considered above, to ascertain what is threatened, 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 841 

and what general measures are needed. High feeding may cause cough; 
in which case the amount of food should be diminished, exercise taken, and 
antimonium carbonicum be administered. If the cough arises from going 
into the water, or being washed in warm water in winter, or being confined 
in a low, damp situation, give aconite and mercurius, the cough in such 
cases being harsh, hard, and attended with vomiting of tough mucus. 

ECZE MA.— SURFEIT. 

This results from a hereditary tendency, and is not contagious. It is 
often mistaken for mange, the remarks on which the reader should com- 
pare with the present ones. The hereditary germs of the disease will be 
developed by insufficient exercise, food that is unwholesome or given in too 
large or too small quantities, close lodgings, dirty, hard, or too luxurious 
bedding, or barley-straw bed, and flesh-food also encourages it. 

Symptoms, — Continual scratching; inflamed patches from which flows 
a fluid that mats the hair, and forms scabs which come off and leave the 
skin bare, inflamed, and discharging a thin, watery fluid; this fluid dries and 
forms scales, which the dog rubs, as he does the scabs, until pustular erup- 
tions form and present the appearance of general ulceration. The af- 
fected patches will oftenest be found on the back and inside of the thighs. 
In fat, over-fed animals the skin is robbed of the hair, becomes very thick 
in places and is deprived of feeling, so that pinching is agreeable instead of 
painful; the dog is a repulsive sight, lies around, dull, sleeping, scratching, 
biting and licking the sores; is wrinkled, chapped, ulcerated and of a foul 
smell, the skin discharging all the time a disgusting mattery fluid. The 
disease maybe of a local character; for example, in sporting dogs it attacks 
the toes and feet especially, sometimes exclusively. Whatever its extent, 
however, its duration is uncertain, its cure difficult, and its return likely to 
occur, as may be expected in a hereditary disease. 

Treatment. — Rhus is needed for redness of skin; blotches; cracked 
skin; small yellowish pimples, which run together. Mercurius is invalua- 
ble for eruptions that become pustular after a while, or those which are 
once dry, then moist. For burning heat, great itching, scaly eruptions, 
pustules becoming ulcerous, and for advanced cases attended with diarrhoea, 
weakness, loss of flesh and distended abdomen, give arsenicum. Insure 
absolute cleanliness. Wash the sores gently with tepid water and dry at 
once. Use a lotion of rhus when giving the same internally. Repeatedly 
change the bed and air the lodgings, providing a full supply of fresh water, 
and giving free, moderate open-air exercise. Be careful in the diet. 
Allow no flesh at all, except perhaps from one ounce to two, according to 



84: 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



the size of the animal, to sustain life after more than three days of perfect 
abstinence from eating. Though a little flesh might be allowed in case of 
weak puppies, or when great weakness has come on, broth is better even 
then. Large, hardy animals may be without food a few days and no harm 
result. It is a safe rule to keep the animal pretty strictly on a diet of 
vegetables and articles of food made from the flour of grains. 

MANGE— ITCH. 

This disorder is liable to confusion with eczema, and the reader should 
compare what is said on that disease with the remarks here made. It is 
not of frequent occurrence. It is caused by parasites in the skin and 
presents the aspect of the like affection in the horse, to which the reader 
is referred. The parasite may be transmitted to the human body, but does 
not there remain so stubbornly as in the dog. Conditions that are favora- 
ble to the development of the parasite are close, unhealthy lodgings, 
dirty, damp bedding, or general uncleanness, want of air and exercise, 
bad or deficient food. The symptoms are thinning of the hair; dry, scaly, 
ridgy skin, especially on the neck, back, ears and eyes; rubbing and 
scratching, resulting in red spots, or pimples, which burst, their discharge 
forming yellowish crusts and brownish scales; the dog is dejected, ex- 
cept under special excitement; appetite good and thirst excessive, the 
body being feverish; in a few weeks the whole body may be affected, 
and if the disorder is neglected, the dog may become poor, bloated, 
weak, and hopelessly diseased. 

Treatment. — The killing of the parasites is necessary to a cure. 
To effect this, follow the directions given for the removal of lice, ticks 
and fleas given in the following article. If this fails, use one of the oint- 
ments mentioned in the treatment of this affection in the Horse. It may be 
necessary to resort to an ointment composed of one ounce of mercury to 
one pound of lard, well rubbed into the skin, but the animal should not 
get wet during its application. Promote a good condition of flesh and 
general health as a preventive of a recurrence. 

FLEAS.— TICKS.— LICE. 

These pests cause the dog much inconvenience and the household 
much annoyance. They cause the dog to scratch and rub himself, and give 
rise to small pimples which are torn open and discharge serum or matter 
and form sores. They may be on any part of the body, but lice are more 
often found on the head and about the eyes and lips. Scratching and un- 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 843 

easiness will at once show that they are present, and an examination will 
readily bring them to view. 

Treatment. — There is no cure except the absolute removal of the 
parasites and destruction of their eggs. Wash the dog with warm water 
and soap, well rubbed into the skin, carefully cleanse with tepid water, and 
dry thoroughly by rubbing before a fire. Then sprinkle with tincture of 
camphor, and carefully use a comb and brush to remove the eggs on the 
hair. This may be repeated two or three times, the eyes, lips and ears re- 
ceiving special attention. The pests may be driven away by a free rubbing 
with an ointment made of one ounce of sulphur and a pound of lard; or 
one made of equal parts of sulphurous acid and water or glycerine; dilute 
carbolic acid may have the same effect. Sulphur internally may be desir- 
able along with the application of the sulphur-ointment. If the eruptions 
do not disappear, give arsenicum three times daily. Destroy all the bedding 
and cleanse the lodgings with carbolic or sulphurous acid. Dogs which 
are admitted to the house should be frequently and well washed. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

This is a very dangerous disease, but not common, and is caused by 
exposure to cold and wet, over-exertion, strains, injuries, seasoned food, 
gravel, and turpentine and cantharides as medicines. It is marked by stiff, 
straddling hind legs in walking; tender loins; hot, dry nose and mouth, 
with great thirst; turning of the head toward the loins; urine scanty and 
high-colored, or thick and clear, and passed with straining; failure of appe- 
tite; inclination to keep quiet; the back arched during motion. 

Treatment. — Use the remedies mentioned for this disorder in the 
Horse. Wring out cloths in hot water and apply them to the loins, chang- 
ing them often. Give an exclusive diet of milk for some days. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

This is sometimes the result of cold and of wet lodgings, but may ensue 
upon running about after being tied up, or from injuries, gravel, and dosing 
with cantharides. The urine is sometimes clear, at other times thick, cloudy 
and bloody, passed in very small quantities, with frequent attempts; gener- 
ally matter is discharged from the penis; hind legs trembling; belly about 
the bladder hot, tender and distended. 

Treatment. — Aconite and cantharis in alternation will often be 
sufficient. Cannabis is useful if the first two remedies do not effect a cure, 
and if there is great pain during and after urination. Give a diet of milk. 



844 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE TEATS. 

This comes on a few days after parturition, and is first indicated by 
small, tender lumps at the base of the teats. The swelling soon increases 
and extends around the teats, the latter becoming very hot and red. The 
suckling of the pups may be so painful that the mother will not allow it, 
and then the inflammation involves the whole udder, perhaps going 
on until suppuration occurs and an abscess forms at the base of one or 
two teats. 

Treatment. — As soon as the inflammation is detected, give aconite, 
alone or alternating with belladonna. If, after a few doses of such medicine, 
the inflammation and swelling increase, give chamomilla internally and 
apply to the affected part a piece of soft rag dipped in a lotion of the same. 

DISORDERS OF THE EYE AND EAR. 

Inflammation. — The dog is frequently affected with an inflammation 
of the eyelids and eyeballs, known as ophthalmia, which is due to a change 
of temperature, heat, dust and violent exertion, the disorder sometimes ap- 
pearing as an epidemic. The eyes are watery and very sensitive to light, 
a discharge drving on the lids and around the eves so as to glue them to- 
gether. The white of the eye is covered with red streaks; sometimes 
ulcers appear on the front of the eye and may continue until they let the 
fluid out of the ball, with proud flesh following. 

Treatment. — Aconite, if given promptly in the first stages, is often 
sufficient for a cure. Give belladonna, after the use of aconite, if there is 
still great sensitiveness to light, the eyes being shut, inflamed, dim and 
watery. Mercurius is suitable for discharge of mucus, swelling and stick- 
ing eyelids, and threatened ulceration. Sulphur tends to prevent relapses, 
and is also good for chronic cases. Use arnica internally and externally 
when external violence is the cause. If the disorder results from eating too 
much soft food, with little exercise, as it may, allow no flesh-food, and com- 
pel the dog to move about when the severe symptoms subside, keeping him 
in a cool place. Allow him to stay in a dim light until he voluntarily 
comes out. Wash the eye frequently with tepid water to prevent the dis- 
charge from drying on the eye. 

Eczema of the Eyelids. — This disorder appears in the form of 
pustules at the roots of the lashes, on the edges of the lids. These soon 
break and the discharge dries and glues the eyes together, the ulceration, if 
not stopped, extending until it destroys the roots of the lashes, causing them 
to permanently fall off. 



THE DOG DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 845 

Treatment. — Clip the lashes close and wash the parts night and 
morning, to avoid the gluing process. If crusts have formed, soften and 
remove them with warm water, avoiding all force in taking away any de- 
posit. Mercurius corrosivus should be given night and morning, an appli- 
cation being made on the eyelids composed of one grain of the same and 
one drachm of cosmoline, this being put on with a camel's-hair brush. 

Canker in the Ear. — This is a disorder occurring mainly in old 
dogs, or fat, over-fed ones. It may result from distemper, and is often 
caused by exposure to cold and dampness. Its symptoms are shaking of 
the head; whining; rubbing the ear against any object, or scratching it, 
followed by howls of pain; the inside of the ear is red; in a few days an 
offensive discharge comes from the ear, which increases in quantity. The 
disease is liable to become permanent if neglected. 

Treatment. — Give belladonna at first, previous to the discharge, for 
red, swollen inside of the ear. Mercurius is needed when there is a thick, 
offensive discharge, tinged with blood; pulsatilla, for thin discharge, or 
when distemper is the cause; and arsenicum if there be weakness, and irri- 
tation of the skin from the discharge. Frequently wash the ear with warm 
water and inject warm milk and water into it with a small syringe. When 
the discharge decreases, use a lotion composed of one drachm of carbolic 
acid, two drachms of glycerine, and six ounces of water. 

Deafness. — Distemper, fever, inflammation of the brain, general de- 
bility, hardened wax, canker, or old age may cause deafness. 

Treatment. — When the hearing fails, ascertain whether hardened 
wax is the cause. If so, inject a little warm water and pure castile soap 
twice a day, until the wax is soft enough to be removed. If distemper is 
the cause, give pulsatilla; if fever or inflammation of the brain, belladonna; 
if canker, hepar. 

Scurfy Ears. — Scurf occurs more frequently on the ears of dogs 
with short hair. It usually starts from the tip and extends to the roots. Its 
causes are improper food, filth, sudden disappearance of mange, and natural 
tendency. 

Treatment. — Arsenicum is to be given for dry, hot ears, the scurf 
falling in scales; sulphur for rapidly spreading scurf, and itching; hepar for 
tender ears and moisture under the scurf. Wash the ears once daily with 
warm water and soap, dry them, and apply with a sponge a lotion made of 
one part of glycerine and six of water. 

Swelling of the Ears. — A pale, straw-colored fluid sometimes 
accumulates between the outside and inside layers of the skin, generally as 
a result of an injury. It may increase slowly or rapidly. It is best to open 
the swelling at once, on the inside of the ear at the lowest point, and press 



846 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

out the fluid. This may be sufficient; but it may continue some days if a 
blow has been the cause. The fluid may collect two or three times if the 
opening is not kept free, in which case inject a little warm water, and bind 
the animal so as to keep the ear in a vessel of warm water for five or ten 
minutes once daily for several days. 

SORE FOOT. 

This disorder affects the elastic bottom of the foot, and is caused by 
any of the many mechanical injuries incident to running about. The paw 
swells, bleeds, is painful, scales off, perhaps has hard lumps, causing the dog 
to limp, and possibly the skin and nails to come off. 

Treatment. — Carefully remove grit, thorns, or other foreign sub- 
stances, bathe in warm water, apply cloths saturated with arnica-lotion, giv- 
ing arnica internally at the same time. If there are signs of fever and 
suppuration is threatened, apply linseed poultices containing a few drops of 
arnica. If suppuration has taken place, open the sore, and apply poultices 
mixed with a few drops of calendula, night and morning. When all the 
matter is removed, in place of the poultices use cloths saturated with calen- 
dula-lotion. During such applications, muzzle the dog to keep him from 
tearing them off. When improvement begins, put on a shoe, preferably 
leather, to keep out dirt and remove pressure for a few days. If the feet 
are merely tender, the licking of them by the dog will often suffice; great 
relief may also be given by warm fomentations. 

GENERAL MENTION OF DISORDERS. 

Disorders which occur more or less often in dogs, but are not specially 
treated here because they are quite easily recognized, and are sufficiently 
considered in the Horse to enable one to select suitable treatment from their 
respective articles in Part II, are Dropsy, Abscesses, Boils, Tumors, Warts, 
Burns, Scalds, Gonorrhoea, Protrusion of the Rectum and Womb, Cataract, 
Pterygium, Cuts, and other Wounds and Injuries. 




:pjl:r,t yii 



THE CAT AID ITS DISEASES. 







203. HANDSOME TOM. 



848 



PART VII. 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 



Member of the Chicago Academy of Science, and of the Illinois State Humane Society. 




ORIGIN AND HISTORY. 

THE admirer of the cat inquires about the origin of the 
graceful pet which sings on the rug or lies so com- 
fortably on the lap of its mistress, and he learns that 
"blue blood" runs in the veins of the large family, 
scientifically speaking, to which it belongs. It is 
member of the great class of felidae, whose 
proudest representatives are the kingly lion and 
the royal tiger. In spite of much discussion, the 
question of the origin of the domestic cat is still 
without a satisfactory answer. It is very generally conceded that it descend- 
ed from either the cat of ancient Egypt or the wild cat, but authorities are 
pretty evenly divided upon the two parts of this question. Mr. Wood says, 
"as far as is at present known, the Egyptian cat is the origin of our do- 
mestic cat," and we accept his conclusion, as well as his statement that it 
came to western and northern countries through Greece and Rome. 

That it was known in very early times is shown by many allusions to 
it in the books of the Sanscrit language, which date back thousands of 
years before the Christian era. In ancient Egypt it commanded a venera- 
tion which staggers our credence. We are told that a Persian king cap- 
tured an Egyptian city without opposition by resorting to the stratagem of 
giving a living cat to each soldier when going to battle, the enemy offering 
no resistance lest the sacred animal be killed. Stories of a like kind are 
54 849 



850 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

mentioned in history, and we learn that the death penalty was inflicted on 
any one in Egypt who killed a cat. This animal held a high place in the 
public and private worship of that land, as we read in the pages of history, 
and as is further proved by the vast numbers of images and adornments 
representing it which have been discovered in later times. Hosts of them 
were embalmed, and that, too, by the costly process used on the royal fami- 
lies, so that it may be said that Egypt permanently preserved the bodies of 
her kings and cats. 

We find that the Turks had and yet have a profound respect for this 
animal, handsome sums being devoted to hospitals for its care and treat- 
ment. In the tenth century Howell the Good, of Wales, imposed a heavy 
fine upon any subject who killed a cat. In the Middle Ages a different 
sentiment was rife, superstition connecting the animal with witches and 
Satan, especially if it were black — a superstition which is not unknown 
to-day. Great numbers were burned alive on St. John's Day in a certain 
quarter of Paris, the king starting the fire, Louis XIV being the last ruler 
to perform this proud royal act. To such superstitions and barbarities may 
perhaps be traced the prejudice of modern times against this innocent animal. 
In both ancient and modern Germany there has been a peculiar dread 
of a black cat and its supposed Satanic influences. In Sicily cats are held 
in almost extravagant esteem. In England and America not a few have 
ridiculous notions upon the curative properties of the blood, skin and other 
parts, to say nothing about fancied relations to Satan and witches. 

Over against the repugnance to the cat which many profess, often be- 
cause it is simply the fashion, one may mention, as a few of the great 
number who have admired and fostered the animal, Richelieu, Cardinal 
Wolsey, Montaigne, Fontanelle, Turner the painter, Tasso, Pierre Jean 
de Beranger, and Dr. Jonson. Adding the weight of the tastes of 
such men to that of the favors shown in ancient times, we catch the force 
of the saying that " a cat may look upon a king." 

TRAITS. 

He who dispassionately studies the traits of the cat will recognize a 
measure of aptness in the old Arab's saying, that Allah had placed in the 
cat the spirit of a gentle woman, and in the dog the soul of a brave man. 
At the present time, however, any claim of gentleness for this animal is 
promptly met by the unsupported assertion, that " the friendship of years 
is suddenly and irreparably broken by an accidental tread on the tail," and 
an invidious comparison is drawn by alluding to the patient and forgis*ing 
affection of the dog. The cat is by far the more delicately constituted in 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 851 

the nervous system, and is thus exposed to the most exquisite pain and dis- 
tressing shocks. But in spite of this, if she has been properly treated be- 
fore, it takes but slight assurances that no harm was intended to call forth 
fully as much kindness as the dog will show. This difference is noticeable: 
the dog will take pains to cultivate friendship with those who are indiffer- 
ent or unkind, while the cat will cultivate it only where it is evidently 
mutual. 

If those who harbor such a prejudice will exercise a disposition to learn 
the facts, they will probably corroborate the view of one keen observer 
who has said that he had " never known a cat to cement a friendship with 
any one without such friendship lasting till death." Dr. Stables has given 
a large number of instances in which she has staid by the sick-bed of her 
master or mistress, almost to the point of starvation; has evinced unques- 
tioned loneliness in the absence of that one in the family who has shown 
her special kindness ; has lain by the cradle of the babe and kept off other 
cats, and even dogs; and has been trained to such a point as to sport with 
and protect pet birds, when she would immediately devour any of 
their kind that she might find in their natural freedom. The testimony of 
that writer is fully sustained by any one who has been observant of the cat 
when it is kindly treated and trained. One frequently-cited evidence of 
her innate kindness is her nursing of puppies, rabbits, rats, and other ani- 
mals. It is readily seen that, in addition to her proverbial attachment to 
places, which leads her to seek her home when taken away a long distance 
in the closest confinement, she is disposed to be as closely attached to per- 
sons and dumb creatures. Not only may she be educated to become the 
protector of animals which she is naturally prompted to destroy, thus dis- 
proving the existence of an alleged " ineradicable treachery," but her 
marked propensity to steal may be so completely overcome by training 
that her choicest food will be untouched in the larder to which she has ac- 
cess. Indeed, as we might infer from her delicate organism and high type 
of cunning, she has a docility which has a parallel in few animals, and it 
but requires pains to develop it. It may be safely said that those which 
display the disagreeable traits of petulance, theft and treachery are starved, 
ill-treated, spoiled, or at least much neglected. The strict cleanliness of 
body which they maintain, the noiseless and graceful demeanor, and the 
notable absence of a disposition to do willful injury to furniture and adorn- 
ments, make cats peculiarly fit for drawing-room pets. 

The prejudice of to-day is almost w r holly due to a disregard of two 
points, namely, the selection of a proper subject, and the requisite care and 
training. One will necessarily form a low estimate of the animal if he 
bases his conclusions upon the stray representatives in whose veins runs 



852 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

the blood of all chance mongrel breeds, which have " shifted for them- 
selves," and have had no protection against bad weather, bad food, bad 
dogs and worse boys. Heredity is as well defined in cats as in other ani- 
mals, and good or bad habits will not only be transmitted, but may be con- 
firmed or corrected by education. No more will this pet be agreeable and 
prized without training than others, nor will others more readily and fully 
reward one for the pains that he may bestow. 

VARIETIES. 

The varieties most sought as pets are trie Angora (also called Angola, 
because some think that it originated in Angola, in Africa, instead of 
Angora, in Asia Minor); the Persian; the Chinese; the Spanish, or Tor- 
toise Shell; the Chartreuse, or Blue; the Manx; and the Tabby. 

The Angora is the most beautiful of all. It is large, and has long, 
silky fur, and a gorgeous, brush-like tail. It is generally perfectly white, 
but may be a pale-yellow, or almost olive-colored. Whatever the color, it 
is pretty, gentle and delicate. 

The Persian is " beautiful in luster and color of its skin. It is a gray- 
blue, and as soft and shining as silk. The tail is of great length and cov- 
ered with hair six inches long, which the animal throws over its back after 
the manner of a squirrel." The hair on the neck is also very long, and 
the color is said to be sometimes pure white. 

The Chinese, which some claim is not properly a cat, is rather above 
the Ordinary size, has fine, glossy fur, and hanging ears. 

The Spanish, or Tortoise Shell, is white, black and reddish-brown 
mixed, and is very elegant in form. 

The Chartreuse, or Blue, has long slate-colored fur, and a bushy neck 
and tail. This is perhaps what is popularly known as the Maltese. 

The Manx has long, slim legs, close-set fur, staring, restless eyes, and 
no tail, there being only a knob in its stead. It is an unearthly looking 
creature, and " might fitly be the quadrupedal form in which the ancient 
sorcerers were wont to clothe themselves on their nocturnal excursions." 
There seems to be little doubt that some animals presented at cat-shows as 
specimens of the Manx are really common cats with the tails cut off. In- 
deed, not a few even yet say that the Manx is a myth, though some high 
authorities do not question its existence. 

The Tabby is striped, like waved or watered silk, and may have any 
of a variety of colors. In technical language, we apply this name to those 
that have such marking, but it is popularly used for any grown cat. 

In addition to the above, mixed breeds in great variety present almost 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 853 

every conceivable color, from perfect black to spotless white, and many of 
them are desirable as pets and valuable as mousers. 

HEALTH OF CATS. 

Most people never think that a cat suffers a loss of health that is worth 
notice, and they entirely neglect then- pet until it is perhaps found dead in 
the alley. To expect an animal of such a delicate organism to be free from 
disease is most unreasonable. It is doubtless true that many have little 
concern, too, whether the cat suffers or not. Two classes will perhaps put 
a low estimate on a work which is devoted to the comfort and health of 
an animal which they lightly esteem. One class will be found in the 
country, where vile mongrel cats are the only ones known, and whose only 
redeeming characteristic is a fecundity that supplies the demand as rapidly 
as it is made by the deaths which ensue from neglect and cruelty. The 
other class will be those who cultivate the contempt for the cat which 
many profess, because they suppose it is popular, without reflecting that it 
is not an evidence of superior taste to despise what God has created. But 
the great admiration — often extravagant, of course — evinced for this ani- 
mal by a host of good people, the high money value put upon it by such 
people and by most people in our cities, and the frequent applications made 
to the family physician when a favorite cat in the household is suffering, all 
point to a large class who will welcome the present treatise. Before the 
treatment is entered upon, a few hints are in order upon the care which is 
calculated to ward off in great measure the ailments to which this animal 
is subject. To preserve the health, the smoothness and gloss of the fur, 
and the temper, one must regard the food, drink, housing, and general 
management. 

Food. — In this matter perhaps no error is more general than that of 
starving a cat to make it a good mouser. The practice has arisen from the 
mistaken notion that a cat kills mice and rats for food only, while the truth 
is that she does it quite as much because it is at once her sport and her nature, 
and that she will follow it up more faithfully if she is properly fed 
and kept in her normal health and spirits. If one wants his pet to be- 
come a thief and prowler, with an abundant stock of fleas and vermin, let 
him neglect to feed her regularly. Give at least two meals a day at regu- 
lar hours. After each feeding remove the dish and never use it a second 
time without first washing it. The quantity that is requisite can best be 
determined by experience, but some breeds, the Angora in particular, re- 
quire more than others. 

Oatmeal porridge and milk, or white bread soaked in milk a little 



854 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

sweetened, will make a good breakfast. For a dinner, the same may be 
given with an allowance of flesh. Horse-meat is much used in Europe, 
and is good, though liver and boiled lights are better. Fish is the favorite 
meat of the cat, and should be at least occasionally provided, particularly 
during sickness. Oysters are also well suited to its wants and are keenly 
relished by some. Raw beef is, of course, to be recommended. An ex- 
cessive amount of flesh, however, tends to produce diarrhoea, liver being es- 
pecially conducive to this derangement. Boiled eggs at regular intervals 
are desirable, as are also vegetables of any kind that the animal likes. 

Though the food should be ample for the needs of the cat, over- feed- 
ing is one of the most prolific sources of mischief. Sweet, fresh milk 
should always be given in abundance, and this, with the oatmeal or bread, 
will be quite sufficient in most cases. The mice which the cat will contrive 
to get will generally be an adequate supplement. Delicacies from the table 
are always to be withheld. It may be said in this connection that a cat's 
disposition is often spoiled by feeding it from the table while the family is 
eating. This should not be allowed, and a little training will induce her 
to patiently await her time, even if she sits by the table during the meal. 

Grass. — A lady writer says: "Cats will never prosper without grass to 
eat. It is, with them, a panacea for nearly all their ills. They eat it to keep 
the stomach in good order. It cools the blood, prevents humors, and aids 
digestion." It is supposed that the eating of grass helps the cat to get rid 
of the hair which it swallows in the process of washing. While licking 
itself, the loose hair clings to the tongue and is swallowed. In the stomach 
it tends to form hard balls, which interfere with digestion and act as an 
irritant to the stomach and bowels, causing fever, fits, vomiting and dys- 
entery. The grass acts in such cases as a lubricant, like castor oil, enabling 
these balls to be easily thrown off by the stomach or bowels. Grass can 
be supplied to cats in the winter by laying by a few cuts of sod in the 
cellar, conservatory, or any warm place, being kept watered, and a small 
piece being given at a time. They will eat it greedily, and even swallow 
the roots. If it causes them to vomit no harm will be done. If a cat ap- 
pear ill, tries to vomit, or vainly tries to evacuate the bowels, and no grass 
can be procured, give a teaspoonful of castor oil, sweet oil, or glycerine. 
The readiness with which most of them will feed upon asparagus 
in the garden should induce one to keep a. supply in reach when practicable; 
and their natural preference for catnip will suggest a like course, for it is 
well-known that cats take delight in rolling about in catnip, whether dry 
or green. 

Drink. — Of milk we have already spoken; but it is a mistake to sup- 
pose that it is always preferred, since water will generally be chosen for 






THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 855 

the mere quenching of thirst. Both should be kept in a particular place, 
in different vessels, or in separate divisions of a double dish. The drink- 
ing-vessels must be washed at least once a day and a fresh supply be pro- 
vided as often, for milk that is the least unsavory will not be taken by a 
well-bred cat, unless hunger forces it to accept it, nor will it drink water if 
it is not fresh and free from dust. 

Housing. — If one is to have a cat that is fit to be seen in the parlor, or 
to be allowed in the house at all, he must give it suitable housing. If he 
turns it out at night, it will, in addition to becoming a thief and prowler, 
surely be gaunt, ugly, unhealthy, and covered with lice and other vermin 
from its visits to the roosts of poultry and birds. If properly fed and 
treated during the day, it will not be inclined to go out at night. Make a 
good bed in a clean, cosy place, give free access to different parts of the 
house, and do not put your cat out at night unless it shows a marked de- 
sire to go. Many people turn it out to keep it from soiling the carpets, 
but this is unnecessary, for proper management will supplement its nat- 
ural dainty cleanliness, and thus prevent this practice, unless sickness or too 
close confinement induces it. It is always well to place a sand-box in some 
remote part of the house, and to keep it accessible at all times. Not only 
can one train his cat to use it herself, but she will also teach her mates and 
kittens to do the same. 

Care of the Fur. — The Hindoo word for cat means " the cleanser," 
and an apt use of the term it is, for no other animal keeps itself in such 
exquisite cleanliness. No one should fail to keep the apartments in which 
the cat is kept as clean as possible. If she is compelled to wear a dirty 
coat for a considerable time, it will be the more to her credit if she does 
not become discouraged, careless and slovenly. At times the surroundings 
will be such that the soiling of the fur will be unavoidable, and it is then 
best to give an occasional bath with warm water and the mildest of soap, 
carefully drying with towels, in a warm room, to prevent the contracting 
of a cold. For obvious reasons, white cats will be more often treated in 
this way, and perhaps the water which gets into the ears, and the colds 
which are taken, aggravate the alleged liability of those of this color to 
become deaf — a liability which is grossly exaggerated by many. 

To insure a clean, glossy coat, give at times an ounce or less of fresh 
butter. " It not only acts as a gentle laxative, but the grease, combining 
in her mouth with the alkalinity of her saliva, forms a kind of natural cat- 
soap, and you will see she will immediately commence washing herself, and 
become beautifully clean." When the fur is rough and " seedy," give a 
saucer of milk, warmed a little with hot water and slightly sweetened with 
sugar. If cream is smeared about the mouth or on the paws, the cat will 



856 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

lick it off and use it in dressing herself. To prepare her for shows, touch 
her all over with a sponge dipped in fresh cream, and she will clean and 
polish herself with a striking effect. 

A begrimed coat is a source of poor health, and one that is rough and 
staring is generally the first symptom of disease. Hence, both in hygiene 
and treatment, attention to the fur is of much importance. 

General Remarks. — The health and temper of cats are seriously 
impaired by rough treatment of all kinds. No one can reasonably expect 
to have a pet that is fit for the drawing-room if it is harassed by dogs and 
street-boys, or continually teased by pulling its ears, tail and fur; nor, in- 
deed, if it is treated as if it were merely suffered to be in the house, instead 
of being sought. That an animal is so patient as to allow children to 
smother it in their aprons and wraps, to carry it over the shoulder by the 
legs or head, and even to drag it by the tail, is a rebuke to parents who are 
so unfeeling as to permit such abuse. Her good nature merits some consid- 
erations of humanity. Her delicate nervous organism, too, demands pro- 
tection against pain, fright, and all forms of rough treatment. 

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

Cats are subject to nearly as many diseases as the human race. But 
while the diseases of nearly all other animals have been studied with great 
care, those of the cat have been neglected, except by a few admirers of that 
animal. Yet there are thousands of people who would highly value any 
practical information, in order that they might save the life or preserve the 
health of a loved pet or valuable mouser. 

Cats soon show when they are sick. Almost the first symptom is a 
neglect of their usual toilet. A cat that omits to wash and clean itself is 
surely ill. 

Another prominent symptom is a rough condition of its fur. The 
hair no longer is smooth and glossy, but appears to stand out straight from 
the skin. 

A hot nose is a pretty sure sign that a cat is feverish or has inflam- 
mation somewhere. I shall enumerate the disorders of cats in the order of 
their frequency, and give briefly the best treatment adopted by others, 
together with my own experience. 

There is no reason why we should not treat the cat and all other 
animals with the same humanity with which we should treat our fellow 
human beings. Some physicians and surgeons take offense, or pretend to, 
if asked to prescribe for a cat or other domestic animal. No physician 
need feel any loss of dignity in doing a humane act. When a veterinary 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 



857 



physician or some one who makes diseases of animals a speciality can not be 
procured, the family physician has no moral or humane right to refuse to 
prescribe. The writer, although an old physician of large practice, never 
refused such aid, and if the following hints shall enable humane people to 
relieve the suffering of their pets, he will be sincerely gratified. 

When medicine is not given in the food, and is to be administered by 
hand, it is well to put on thick, stout gloves to avoid bites and scratches. 




204. Hafiz (from a photograph). Owned by the Author. 



Then wrap the cat in a strong cloth, carefully covering the feet; let an assist- 
ant hold it between his knees, and open the mouth wide. Doses in a fluid 
form should be given little by little from a spoon. If a pill or bolus is the 
form, put it well back against the roof of the mouth. If tasteless powders 
or homoeopathic pellets are used, it is only necessary to place the dose on 
the tongue, when it will be absorbed or swallowed. In all cases, be gen- 



858 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tie, so as to avoid fright and injury. Studiously clean off from the lips and 
fur all remnants of the medicine, for the cat will not lick it off if it is dis- 
tasteful, and its presence will be annoying. It is a good rule to withhold 
food for two hours after a remedy has been given, unless special directions 
to the contrary are mentioned in any particular place. 

CONVULSIONS.— FITS. 

Among the causes of fits the principal is overfeeding with meat, 
especially when young. Cats should have but a small quantity of meat once 
a day. The best diet for a cat under one year of age is milk, oatmeal and 
milk, or plain bread and milk. 

Fits are generally of such short duration that but little can be done for 
instant relief. If they last more than a minute, a whiff of chloroform, 
ether or ammonia may do good. In order to prevent them from running 
into the fire or injuring furniture or ornaments in their wild and delirious 
action, throw a shawl or sheet over them and hold them quiet. The preven- 
tive or after-treatment is the most important. 

Treatment. — The diet must be carefuliy watched, and if they are 
fat, put them on a low diet. If they are poor and lean, give them reg- 
ularly milk and a little raw meat twice a day. If the disorder arises from 
worms, give santonine (one-tenth grain in milk every three or four hours 
for two or three days). A cat with fits should be watched, and if her fasces 
or vomit contain worms, you may be sure that worms are the cause. If 
the cat is very poor and scrawny, give half a teaspoonful of cod-liver oil 
three times a day. If the fits are frequent and the cat is rigid, or stiffly 
convulsed, give nux vomica three times a day (a few pellets or grains of the 
third trituration, or a spoonful of a solution of one or two drops of the 
tincture in half a glass of water). If the eyes are red and blood-shot and 
the head is hot, give belladonna in the same dose as nux vomica. 

DELIRIUM. 

Cats often have attacks of delirium, which may be mistaken for 
fits, though there are no true convulsions. The animal is discovered with 
staring eyes and bristly fur, rushing here and there in a terrible manner. 
It tries to climb up the wall or break through a window, and ends by 
plunging into the darkest corner, and mews piteously or screams frightfully. 
Here it will remain and die unless attended to. 

Treatment. — Put on a pair of thick gloves or mittens, grasp the cat 
firmly by the nape of the neck, wrap a shawl around the body, and 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 859 

with a sharp pair of scissors clip or slit one of the ears slightly in the thin 
part; then with a sponge or rag wet the ear with warm water to cause the 
blood to flow, and a few drops will give relief. Give the cat some bella- 
donna or hyoscyamus as directed above, put it in a cool, quiet place, and 
allow it to sleep. Do not allow it to be disturbed for several hours or a day, 
for the animal is left in a very nervous state, in which a slight sound will 
alarm it and bring back the delirium. 

When cats are teething this delirium often occurs. In some instances 
the gums ought to be lanced. Feed the cat very sparinglj' with warm 
milk, not cream, for a few days. Place within its reach water to drink, 
and grass to eat. • 

APOPLEXY. 

If a cat suddenly becomes stupid, sleeps heavily and cannot be roused, 
and breathes with a snore, it has apoplexy. Bleed from the ear a few drops, 
and give one-tenth drop of opium (laudanum) every half-hour. 

INFLAMED EYES. 

This is generally due to catarrh or injury. If it arises from catching 
cold, the eye will be swollen, the inside of the lids red and secreting a 
mucus which sticks the lids together and runs out of the corners. Give in- 
ternally some pulsatilla or hepar sulphur. Locally apply a wash of weak 
borax-water, or a few grains of alum or sulphate of zinc to a teacupful 
of water. 

CATARRH OF THE NOSE. 

After catching cold, cats will sneeze and show all the symptoms of in- 
fluenza. It is often epidemic. When influenza is prevalent among men 
and horses, dogs and cats are similarly affected. Give hepar sulphur, and if 
the case is severe, with sore, raw nose and a watery discharge, give arsenic 
or arsenic iodide, third trituration, or ten drops of Fowler's Solution in a half- 
teacup of water, a spoonful every two hours. 

SORE THROAT.— DIPHTHERIA. 

Sore throat arises generally from a cold, and is preceded by catarrhal 
symptoms. The cat will seem to have difficulty in swallowing food, will 
swallow when not eating, and the glands of the throat are swollen. Cats 



860 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



have diphtheria, which they often get from children by whom they are 
fondled. Give belladonna and mercurius, and wrap the throat up in flannel 
wet with cosmoline; or tie a strip of pork around the throat. If it is diph- 
theria, the same treatment will be ample, with a few grains of sulphite of 
soda in water. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 

This is often caused by cats eating food that has been poisoned. If 
you are sure it is arsenic, give a few drops of peroxide of iron, or dialized 
iron, every half-hour. The symptoms are constant vomiting and retching, 
with great thirst. If it is not from arsenic, give a few pellets or a powder 
of arsenicum, third trituration, every hour or two. If this fails, give a 
grain or two of sub-nitrate of bismuth, dry on the tongue, every hour. 
But do not forget that all the symptoms of this disease are often caused by 
worms, and then nothing but santonine will save life. 

DIARRHCEA. 

Diarrhoea is generally caused by irregular or excessive feeding, or ex- 
posure to wet and cold. Fat meat, or too much liver or oysters will cause 
it. It soon reduces the cat to a skeleton, and will end in dysentery and death. 

If caused by improper food, give pulsatilla and a diet of boiled milk, 
or no food at all, for a day or two. A few grains of bismuth will often 
avert it. If it come- from a cold, give mercurius, second trituration. If it 
is chronic and obstinate, give the following prescription: 

3 Tine, opii, one drachm. 

Castor oil, one ounce. 

Aromatic syrup rhubarb, one ounce. 

Emulsion, two ounces. 
Mix. 

Give one-half or one teaspoonful every two hours. In all severe cases of 
illness, put the cat in an empty room, not too cold, with a warm bed in it, 
and a box of sand. 

DYSENTERY. 

Dvsenterv is an inflammation of the mucous lining of the intestines. It 
is attended bv fever, pain in the bowels, crying and discharge of white or 
bloody slime, with straining. 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 861 

Give aconite and mercurius, with colocynth if there is colic. If this 
fails, use the prescription given above for chronic Diarrhoea. A grain or 
two of powdered ipecac every two hours will be needed if the discharges 
are green and very bloody. 

BRONCHITIS AND CONSUMPTION. 

Cats are very subject to bronchitis, especially pet cats, if they are 
exposed to cold and wet. It begins with symptoms of a common cold, 
such as staring coat, shivering, and slight cough. The cat becomes very ill 
for a day or two with the acute stage, which soon passes into the chronic 
form. There is then difficulty of breathing; the cat is constantly coughing, 
with the tongue hanging over the lower lip; she has an anxious expression 
about the face, and her eyes are watery and filled with matter; she gets 
thinner and moons about, refusing all food, or at times eating voraciously, 
with depraved appetite. 

Confine the cat to the house, in a warm room ; feed her on beef-tea and 
bread, or milk and arrowroot-gruel. If she is constipated, give a small tea- 
spoonful of castor or sweet oil, and prepare a mixture as follows: In half a 
glass of water put one drop of Fowler's Solution of arsenic, and five drops of 
tincture of gelseminum. Give a teaspoonful of this every hour until the 
feverish or acute stage has passed. If you have homoeopathic remedies, 
give a small powder of arsenicum (third) and six pellets of gelseminum 
(first), alternately one hour apart. 

After the acute stage has passed into the chronic, and the cough is 
wheezy and frequent, give five drops of syrup of squills every two hours 
or six pellets of pulsatilla (second), alternated with hepar sulphur (third), 
two hours apart. In bad cases, with very difficult breathing and painful 
cough, give a small powder of tartar emetic, second trituration, alternated 
with six pellets of phosphorus, the third. If the cat is left with a cough, 
and grows thin and weak, give half a teaspoonful of pure cod-liver oil three 
times a day. This generally acts like a charm, and the cat soon recovers her 
strength and flesh. 

Consumption often results from neglected bronchitis and needs only 
good care, freedom from exposure, a diet of raw meat, and cod-liver oil. 

DISTEMPER OR YELLOWS. 

Lady Cust, writing of diseases of cats, says: — "This is different from 
distemper in dogs. It rarely occurs but once, and is a dangerous disorder. 
It begins with constant vomiting of bright-yellow, frothy liquid. Diarrhoea 



862 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



then comes on, which ends in dysentery." She advises "half a teaspoonful 
of melted beef marrow, free from skin," and says that one dose is generally 
sufficient to check the vomiting. But several of my cats had this disease 
and I treated them all successfully with calomel and ipecac. Put three or four 
grains of each into half a glass of water, and give a teaspoonful ever}' hour, 
(or give a small powder of mercurius dulcis, second trituration, and the same 
dose of ipecac, second trituration, alternately one or two hours apart). Feed 
them nothing until the vomiting is checked; then give them small quanti- 
ties of warm milk, to which may be added a little mutton-broth. 

MANGE.— RING-WORM.— ECZEMA. 

The "mange" of cats is generally a species of "ring-worm" (which 
they often give to children, or catch from children). It is often a "psoriasis" 
or an "eczema." The skin becomes red and irritated in spots, where the 
hair soon falls off, or the skin becomes red, scaly and wrinkled. The poor 
animal presents an unsightly and even loathsome appearance in bad cases. 
In all instances the annoyance and irritation make the cat very unhappy, for 
the itching is intolerable, and her biting and scratching aggravate the 
disease. 

I have been very successful in treating them just as I would a human 
patient. The diseased surface should be sponged with pure castile soap- 
suds, and carefully dried; after which, if the disease is mild, apply the 
following 1 ointment : 



B 



Mix. 



Boracic acid (pulv.). 
Almond oil, 

Vaseline, 



one drachm, 
two drachms, 
two ounces. 



Rub in thoroughly with the finger or soft rag. Repeat this every 
day and the eruption will soon disappear. In severe cases use an ointment 
of one drachm of sulphurous acid to one ounce of vaseline (or a wash of 
one drachm of sulphurous acid to one ounce of water). Nearly all varieties 
of mange are caused bv microscopic fungi in the skin, and when they 
are destroved the disease leaves. Carbolated cosmoline has been found 
useful, and so has an ointment of chrysophanic acid, ten grains to one ounce 
of vaseline, the latter being especially good in cases of ring-worm. 

Internally the best remedy is arsenic, one-tenth of a drop of Fowler's 
Solution, three times a day, or iodide of arsenic, third trituration, a grain 
three times a day. Cod-liver oil is useful if the cat is much emaciated, 
since it readilv restores the flesh. 



THE CAT AND ITS DISEASES. 8(53 

CATS WITH KITTENS. 

If you have a valuable and favorite cat pregnant, do not allow her 
to be pushed about, struck or kicked, or she may miscarry, or suffer during 
her confinement. Sometimes the kittens are still-born from such ill-treat- 
ment. See that the cat is well and regularly fed and properly housed. 

When she has kittens, never be so hard-hearted as to destroy all her 
family at once. There is no other animal that exhibits more affection for 
its progeny. It will go hungry that its young may eat, and will face the 
most terrible danger in their behalf. If her children are taken from her, 
the mother will go about for many days in the most distracted and melancholy 
manner, filling the house with her piteous mewings. Therefore, be merci- 
ful and humane. Always leave her at least one baby until it has reached 
an age when it can find other food than its mother's milk. If a cat is de- 
prived of all her young, she may suffer from painful enlargement or inflam- 
mation of the breasts, which sometimes suppurate. . I have known many 
cases in which this retention of milk acted as it does sometimes in women 
when delirium and child-bed fever set in; and a cat maybe dangerous at 
such times. 

A cat's litter may all be born dead, or may be eaten by some old 
tom-cat, or any other animal. If no kittens can be procured to nurse the 
mother, a little camphorated oil or phytolacca cerate should be rubbed on 
the breasts; if she has fever, give aconite and belladonna (pellets) alter- 
nately an hour apart. Sponging the teats with warm water will sometimes 
cause the milk to flow and relieve the swelling and pain. 

If the mother dies and you wish to raise the kittens by hand, give 
them a little new milk sweetened with brown sugar. As a substitute for 
the mother's licking, rub them with a sponge, squeezed out nearly dry after 
being dipped in warm water that is a little soapy. 

BRIEF MENTION OF VARIOUS AFFECTIONS. 

Boils. — Several of my cats have had an eruption like boils, probably 
from over-feeding. They need but little treatment, and measures for pro- 
moting the general health will be sufficient. 

Pox. — In the spring and autumn cats are frequently afflicted with a 
disease resembling chicken-pox in the human subject. The head and throat 
are the parts usually attacked, the hair falls off, and the animal's appearance 
is very miserable. Give hepar sulphur, third trituration, a few grains on the 
tongue every three hours, and apply the boracic-acid ointment mentioned 
under Mange. 



864 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



Fleas. — In some countries and towns cats are terribly annoyed bv 
fleas. They are readily removed by a few applications of Persian Insect 
Powder, rubbed into the fur. 

Injuries, etc. — Cats stand operations of all sorts very well. If a 
leg is broken and lacerated b}^ a trap, and cannot be set and put in 
splints, cut it off. Leave sufficient flesh to cover the bone, and have ready 
a wire raised to white heat, to cauterize and stop bleeding; then bring the 
flesh together by a needle and thread. If the wound has been made with 
a knife or the teeth of some animal, sew it up. If an ulcer forms from any 
cause, touch it with some caustic or burned alum. Cats will persistently 
lick a wound or ulcer. In some cases it will be well to let them. In 
others it defeats healing. A tine wire muzzle is the only preventive. 










eustid of :p^.:r/t vii. 






FJ^TtT VIII 



POULTRY AHD LARGE BIRDS. 






us. SKETCH OF 


A COCK. 






Comb. 


S . ----- ckies. 




id 


1 : es, or flights. 
Point of breast-'bone. 


F a : c . 


10. Sickles. 




17- 


Wattles. 


ii. Tail-coverts 




iS. 


TMarhs. 


Deaf -ear. 


vs. Tr::- tail-fe libei - 




10. 


Hodks. 


Hackle. 


13. Wing-bow. 




3a 


nks 


Breast 


14. Wins - - coverts, the 


"bar." 


::. 


-• . 


Back- 


:: Secondaries, lower eox 


:;. 


. - rj :r ;.-— 5. 



S_:.ile. 



insr the ^ving or lowei 






PART VIII. 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS, 

INCLUDING 

CHICKENS, TURKEYS, DUCKS, GEESE. AND OTHER DOMESTIC FOWLS. 

BY H. H. STODDARD, ESQ., HARTFORD, CONN., 

Editor of The Poultry World, The Poultry Post, and The American Poultry Yard; 
Author of "How to Feed Fowls," "How to win Poultry Prizes," "An Egg Farm," etc., etc. 

INTRODUCTION. 

^^^HE rapid growth of poultry-interests in America and the conse- 
JB quent increase in the financial value of the stock have made a 
lip? practical treatise on the diseases of fowls a pressing need. Feel- 
ings of mercy, to say nothing about self-interest, should prompt one to seek 
relief for his suffering flocks, but many find themselves helpless in the ab- 
sence of a reliable guide. The family physician can give no advice, even 
if his services did not involve too great an expense, for the subject lies out- 
side of his field. Nor does the domain of the veterinary surgeon adequately 
cover this ground. The poultry-raiser must therefore be his own counselor. 
He is, however, generally limited to the advice of equally uninformed neigh- 
bors, and to stray clippings from newspapers which are as useless as the 
large class of specifics for human ills which the paragraph-hunter commits 
to the columns of the same papers. 

During many years of practical poultry-culture and an exhaustive 
study and publication of literature pertaining thereto, the writer has kept 
in mind this deficiency in domestic works and has reduced the fruits of his 
experience to an accessible form, together with such reliable information as 
he has gleaned from intelligent and trustworthy breeders and dealers. He 
confidently believes that a rational? use of the following pages, even by those 
of little or no experience, will result in the saving of many valuable lives 

867 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and the relieving of a great deal of the suffering which has too often been 
met by a fateful waiting for the course of nature to bring about a doubtful 
cure or certain death. The successful treatment of one pure-bred fowl will 
be an ample reward for the study required by this entire treatise. The 
omission of technical and undefined terms is a prominent feature and, being 
a constant aid to the reader in his investigations, will be highly appreciated. 
The common fowl is taken as the basis of this work, but the remarks 
are to be applied to other fowls when a given disease is common to them. 
Some disorders, however, which are peculiar to one species receive separate 
mention and treatment when they seem to demand it. 

HEALTH OF POULTRY. 

The old adage " an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," 
applies as well to the present subject as to others. Most diseases of poultry 
may be prevented by a proper observance of hygienic regulations in regard 
to food, shelter and general care, and the brief remarks upon health will be 
among the most valuable that can be made. 

The Coop and Tard. — It is all-important that over-crowding be 
avoided, since it is a prolific source of destructive epidemics in fowls no 
less than in man. They require a rapid change of air, as they are other- 
wise subjected to influences which favor the development of the germs of 
disease. A flock of twenty-five chickens, or a less number of larger fowls, 
should be provided with a coop having an area of at least one hundred and 
fifty square feet, though a lot of an acre will be a large enough run for four 
times that number. It must not be assumed that the flock can be increased 
at will if only a corresponding addition to the space be made. It is pre- 
judicial to keep larger numbers together, since the damaging effects of the 
exhalations, droppings and impurities of the air can not be counteracted. 
The separation of a large flock into divisions, with a reasonable space be- 
tween them, is necessary to the well-being of poultry. 

Sandy or gravelly soil is the best for the fowl-house. To secure a dry 
floor, it is best to raise an artificial mound of earth on which to locate the 
building. If convenient, you may put in broken bricks, stone and other 
clean, permanent refuse, covering it with some inches of gravel and sand, 
and finishing with sandy or loamy soil, beaten down firmly and smoothly to 
insure ease in cleansing. Heaps of fine coal-ashes or sand should be kept 
in some part of the inclosure as a suitable place for the fowls to dust them- 
selves. Finely pulverized clay or loam is also excellent material for this 
purpose. 

The location should be well drained. Even for ducks and geese that 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 869 

are kept confined it is important that the requisite water be afforded with- 
out incurring the disadvantages of low, damp, ill-drained, stagnant, or 
heavy, clayey soil. It is desirable, of course, that the inclosure for water- 
fowls be located on the brink of a natural body of water, but in the absence 
of this, an artificial font or pond may be made. 

When perches are required, as for chickens, turkeys and Guinea-fowls, 
they should be so arranged as to be out of the way of the droppings and 
not so high from the ground as to injure the birds, if fat and clumsy, when 
flying down from the roost. 

Light and Ventilation. — Light is absolutely essential to health. If 
possible, the shelter should be so constructed that every nook shall occa- 
sionally be exposed to the action of direct rays of the sun. Caution is req- 
uisite in this, however, as in most other good things, and shade should be 
provided so that the fowls may resort to it whenever they are disposed, 
particularly in hot weather. 

In consequence of the unusually active circulation and respiration of 
fowls, deleterious exhalations are rapidly thrown off and remain in the air 
in invisible but poisonous particles. It is, therefore, imperative that every 
corner and cranny of the apartment be within reach of freely -circulating 
air. Yet equal precautions should be taken against excessive wet and too 
sudden colds, for fowls will take cold in a draught as well as human beings, 
particularly at night. A cool house, perfectly ventilated, without direct 
draughts, is desirable in this matter. In some seasons a poultry-house 
should have as limited walls as practicable. In summer a roof is all that is 
needed. Twine or wire netting makes a good partition. 

Cleanliness. — The marked tendency of filth to induce epidemics em- 
phasizes the demand for strict cleanliness. In the eradication of exhalations 
and insects the attention must not be confined to the housings. The yard 
should be changed at times, if possible, and should, at any rate, be treated 
as here directed, while strict measures are taken with all outdoor roosts. 
Dry earth, such as dust in the highways of the country and small towns (in 
cities it contains too much offensive matter), should be spread on the bot- 
tom of all inclosures to catch and disinfect the droppings. Of rather less 
merit are coal-ashes, dried muck, land plaster and powdered gypsum. Be- 
fore the accumulation becomes offensive, or even very copious, the whole 
should be removed and stored away, it being a superior fertilizer. At 
regular intervals the ground of the poultry-run should be spaded up several 
inches deep, the dirt being used for the garden, and the soil being replaced 
with a fresh supply. When the poultry-yard is extensive, plowing will 
obviously be more economical than spading. Remember that the soil will 
tenaciously hold the germs of disease. 



870 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Even more deleterious than the effluvia from the droppings are the 
organic exhalations from the lungs and skin which adhere to the walls, 
nests, perches, and other exposed surfaces. Whitewash should be fre- 
quently spread upon such surfaces and the nests be often furnished with 
new bedding. Diluted carbolic acid, an ounce to a gallon of water, is an 
excellent purifier. It should be sprinkled everywhere in the apartments, 
and may be left to evaporate from cloths. It is often allowed to stand in 
open vessels, but caution should be taken to keep it awav from the flock, 
since it is an active poison. Such danger may be avoided by hanging up 
bv the neck a bottle containing it, with the cork removed. 

Fumigation is a superior protection against disease, and is especially 
valuable for the removal of lice. It may be applied in various ways. The 
fowls being removed, place in the house a vessel containing sulphur, put a 
red-hot iron in it, and closely shut all openings for some hours. Rosin 
may be advantageously added to the sulphur. Gas-tar, or that made from 
pine or coal, is a reasonably good substitute for the sulphur; though shav- 
ings wet with carbolic acid and burned in a similar way will be better. 

Renioval of Lice and Mites. — When lice or red mites are present — 
the rapacious pests which suck the blood and juices of so many fowls, re- 
duce the system, and often destroy life — remove and burn all straw and other 
litter, take out the perches and char them, with all the wood-work. This 
use of fire may be made more thorough by first carefully smearing the 
materials with refuse grease, but the strictest pains are requisite to prevent 
complete destruction. If the coop is not too valuable, it is well to wholly 
destroy it. Slaked lime, put in all the cracks and corners, has some effi- 
cacy. A good additional measure, and one that is often alone sufficient, is 
the washing of all parts with a lotion made of one pound of potash and a 
quart of water, followed with a copious application of kerosene oil. The 
droppings furnish a favorite harbor for such insects, and they should be re- 
moved, with several inches of the dirt, as directed above, and be applied as 
manure to a garden or field, and plowed under. 

Food and Drink. — In the present instance, when considering the par- 
ticular question of health, our remarks will be rather of a negative charac- 
ter, treating mainly of such articles as are undesirable. Whole corn in hot 
weather is unhealthful, as are also damaged grains, tainted meats, all putrid 
offal, and excessive amounts of meat, particularly when raw. A too 
sudden increase of green food induces diarrhoea, though it does no harm 
if kept constantly before the fowls. Peas, beans, pulse and malt are too 
stimulating. Over-feeding leaves imperfectly digested material in the 
blood and thus favors general disorder, and irregular feeding is always pre- 
judicial. 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 871 

Pure, cool, fresh water or milk is the best to drink. Foul, stagnant, 
and impure water of every kind is to be avoided, as it has an injurious in- 
fluence upon the whole digestive 9ystem, with a peculiar tendency to pro- 
duce or invite diarrhoea, cholera, and the like. Even rain-water is some- 
times made unwholesome by an exposure of twenty-four hours to the air, a 
fact which calls for a frequent change of water. 

The main object in poultry-raising being to supply the table with 
meat and eggs, it is strange that so little pains is taken to guard the 
food and drink. If the flock is allowed to eat and drink an}' and every 
thing that is within reach, the flesh and eggs will be as certainly 
vitiated in quality as that the milk of the cow is tainted by the use of 
improper food. Still further, if poultry eat the flesh, blood, milk, urine, 
or droppings of cattle or other animals which are suffering from ma- 
lignant diseases, such as anthrax and foot and mouth disease, the flock 
will be afflicted with the same or similar diseases, with the alternative 
risk of dying or imparting the malignant affection to those who eat 
their flesh and eggs. 

Miscellaneous Notes. — Among the miscellaneous sources of injury 
to health may be mentioned nervous excitement incident to public 
shows, a boisterous manner of. an attendant about the inclosures, the 
trepidation incident to catching, the approach of hawks, dogs and other 
animals. Such fright and confusion should be sedulously avoided. Too 
close confinement tends to general disorder and is favorable to the de- 
velopment of feather-eating and other vices. Blooded animals are more 
often subjected to such confinement than others. Hot weather long con- 
tinued lowers the tone of the system and thus exposes the fowl to 
debilitating affections of the bowels in particular. Excessively dry 
weather is also weakening, and severe cold is unfavorable to the en- 
joyment of normal health. Skin diseases are engendered by snow lying 
on the ground a long time, perhaps because it deprives the fowls of their 
chances for dusting, when the indoor dust-box is lacking. The presence 
of a too vigorous male partner may cause debility in the female and inter- 
fere with the maturing of the egg. The unusual demand made upon the 
digestive organs during the period of moulting, in consequence of the growth 
of the new feathers, calls for special treatment, and such is given in 
the pages devoted to diseases. The general "running-out" of a flock in 
the barn-yard, as well as in the inclosure of the fancier, is doubtless often 
due primarily to in-and-in breeding, by which one family that is kept alone 
declines by an invariable law of nature. Though apparently favorable 
results may be experienced for a time, the inevitable degeneracy will 
eventually become manifest. 



872 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

INVESTIGATION OF DISEASE. 

"What is the disease?" is the first and most important question to ask. 
The number of people who fatefully assume from the beginning that the 
answer to this question is beyond their reach, is inexcusably large. If the 
non-professional reader would apply even a limited allowance of study and 
common sense, many of the less important ills might be avoided, and many 
others be successfully treated. A little special instruction is here given to 
enable one to detect a disease before it is too late, and thus to avoid, in a 
great measure, those disheartening ravages which at times come upon the 
uninformed owner of fowls. The small number of diseases which are 
liable to be mistaken makes it comparatively easy to form a right conclu- 
sion, for it will not take long to read the symptoms mentioned under all 
of them, if necessary, and thus arrive at the truth by exclusion, by learning 
that "it is not this," "it is not that," and so on. 

A general knowledge of the organism, habits and appearance of fowls 
when in health is, of course, very desirable. A reasonably close observation 
is about all that we can expect in this matter from the ordinary owner of 
barn-yard poultry. The experienced fancier adds to this a frequent hand- 
ling and more detailed study, to learn the normal hardness and suppleness 
of the flesh, the warmth, moisture and color of the skin, especially about the 
vent, and the outline and structure of the skeleton. It is also eminently 
desirable that one know what is a right condition of all the organs, but 
this is particularly true in respect to the liver and other digestive organs. 
Such knowledge can be gained only when a well fowl has been killed. 

One of the most common mistakes in the discovery of a disease is the 
forming of a decision after too little study. Finding one or two symptoms 
which are known to attend a suspected ailment, one is prone to jump at 
the conclusion that he has detected the real difficulty, when a further in- 
vestigation would reveal these symptoms, in conjunction with others which 
would lead to the true conclusion. Every examination, therefore, should be 
thorough, until a degree of certainty is felt. It is essential, too, that the 
reader do not expect that a disease will always present just the symptoms 
mentioned in any book, for they will vary more or less in different fowls, 
and even in the same one at different times — a caution which merely calls 
for the exercise of judgment and common sense. 

When any doubt is felt upon the contagious nature of a disease, the 
affected animal should be removed from the flock until the possible danger 
is past. When a bird dies from an unknown cause it should be opened and 
the condition of the internal organs be noted, along with a study of their 
condition as represented in the following pages of treatment. 




873 



874 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

In general, it may be observed that the presence of lice and mites is 
often the cause of weakness and loss of condition, and that a search for 
them will be all that is necessary in many perplexing cases. 

Some diseases of little moment are mentioned in this work, as well as 
some of very rare occurrence, so that the field might be exhaustively 
covered. It may be objected that too many remedies are recommended, 
but it will be seen that they are often mentioned as alternatives, in recogni- 
tion of the fact that one may be at hand when another is not. Any tech- 
nical terms that may be found in these pages will be defined in the context, 
or by the cut on page 866 and the accompanying definition of "points." 

PRECAUTIONS IN SICKNESS. 

When fowls are sick they should be removed from the flock to avoid 
annoyance from others. If the disease is of an epidemic nature, as roup, 
cholera and the like, a temporary hospital should be made, and be destroyed 
when it is no longer needed. In cases of the two disorders just named, 
such a hospital should be more airy than usual. If the quarters used in 
these malignant diseases are not destroyed, they should be thrown open 
and subjected to extreme cold, or be closely shut and raised to a degree of 
heat at least as high as 150 Fahrenheit; for which purpose a stove can be 
used. Boiling water dashed in large quantities on all parts will also be use- 
ful. Other measures recommended above for exhalations and insects may 
likewise be adopted to secure a thorough cleaning of the place. 

REMEDIES AND HOW GIVEN. 

For the sake of completeness and ease of reference, the requisite direc- 
tions for medicines and doses are given just as they are needed. A few 
observations are here made upon the particular effects produced by some 
leading remedies, with the best methods of administration. 

Special Mention of Remedies. — Cayenne pepper, asafoetida and gen- 
tian act as stimulants on the digestive organs. Do not buy the pepper that 
is adulterated or has otherwise lost its properties, and do not give it long 
at a time, nor in such large quantities as to make it distasteful. Ale is a 
good general stimulant. Garlic, onions and asafoetida favor a healthy ac- 
tion of the breathing-organs. The best known tonic is iron, a few drops 
of the tincture being administered in the feed, or a few rusty nails being 
put into the drinking-water. 

Another excellent tonic is the "Douglass Mixture," made as follows: 
Dissolve a pound of copperas (sulphate of iron) in two gallons of water, 
and thoroughly stir into this an ounce of oil of vitriol (sulphuric acid). 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 875 

Keep it in jugs and, for general use, an ounce of it may be put into a gal- 
lon of drinking-water, smaller quantities in the same proportion. It may 
be so given every alternate day. Two gallons are named on the supposi- 
tion of a large flock. For a smaller one, and for a large one in hot weather, 
a less quantity should be made. 

" Chicken Powders " are also superior as a tonic, and are made of 
equal parts of copperas, cayenne pepper, sulphur and rosin, pounded to- 
gether and well mixed. Give two or three teaspoonfuls four or five times 
a week to each dozen fowls. 

Charcoal purifies the digestive organs by absorbing offensive matters, 
and thus stimulates their action. The flock can be taught to eat it by add- 
ing a little in a powdered form to the soft food, and it will afterward be 
taken as the system demands it if it is kept before the fowls in bits as large 
as grains of corn. When given in the food as a powder, care should be 
taken not to put in too much, lest the system become clogged with it. 

Sulphur is a valued drug, but it should be used with some caution. It 
has often produced injurious or fatal effects in external applications to 
young chickens, perhaps more often when mixed with lard. It will also do 
harm to the eyes, and even produce blindness, if it gets into them. There 
is danger of its adulteration with sulphuric acid, and when sold in the form 
of powder it should be washed well in hot water, which will remove the 
acid without dissolving the sulphur. When it is applied externally, the 
fowls should be kept out of the wet for a day or two. 

Lime-water is used for several purposes and is prepared by slaking 
four ounces of good lime in a little water, and then adding enough water 
to make a gallon. Let it stand a few hours, pour off the liquid, and save 
the lime for use in making the preparation at another time. Lime-w T ater is 
useful in both health and disease. 

Doses and Administration. — When one is in doubt about the proper 
size of a dose for a fowl, he should ask a druggist or physician what is the 
regular amount for a child. Give to a chicken two weeks old as much 
as is appropriate for a child of six months; to one of six weeks, the 
dose for a child of a year; to one half-grown, that for a two-year-old child; 
to one full-grown, what is needed for a child of three or four years. It 
will thus be seen that fowls require large doses for such small animals. 

When medicines are not taken in the food or drink and are to be ad- 
ministered by hand, they are most easily given in solutions. Pills and other 
solids will be swallowed if placed far enough back in the mouth. Such 
manual administration can best be effected by taking the fowl in the lap 
and holding it with the left arm, while the mouth is opened with the left 
hand and the medicine is thrust down with the right. In doing this, the 



876 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

head should be kept in the position naturally maintained in drinking, 
the neck being outstretched and the beak pointed upward. 

In making the dose, the following tables will be serviceable : 

druggists' weights. 

20 grains make one scruple. 

3 scruples " " drachm. 

8 drachms " " ounce. 
12 ounces " " pound. 

druggists' fluid measures. 

60 minims make one fluid drachm. 
8 fluid drachms make one fluid ounce. 
16 fluid ounces " " " pint. 

These weights and measures are not in the possession of many people, 
and rougher methods may be used with safety for some of the less potent 
and less poisonous remedies. For example, a teaspoonful is considered equiv- 
alent to one fluid drachm; a tablespoonful, to a half fluid ounce; a wine- 
glassful, to two fluid ounces. So, also, sixty drops of water are accounted 
a teaspoonful, or fluid drachm; one hundred and twenty drops of alcohol 
and the tinctures also pass for the same bulk; while a like number of 
drops of oils and syrups make a much larger proportionate measurement. 
Such indefinite equivalents should obviously not be accepted when using 
strychnine, aconite, colchicum, arsenic, tartar emetic, laudanum and other 
poisons, while scarcely less caution is needed in measuring kerosene oil, sul- 
phur, mercurial ointment, carbolic acid and other dangerous drugs. It may 
not be out of place here to drop a special warning against leaving any 
poison, as rat's-bane, arsenic, Paris green, and the like, within the reach of 
poultry. 

Geizeral Remarks. — It is of the utmost moment in domestic practice, 
in every department, to use judgment and calm good sense. A disease 
may appear in any of a variety of degrees of severity, and no rule can be 
given about the dose that will precisely apply to all cases. The reader must, 
therefore, increase or diminish the size and frequency as the age of the ani- 
mal and the malignancy of the case in hand may dictate, restrained by the 
caution in the maxim that domestic treatment is generally over-treatment, 
medicines being usually given too freely. 




877 



878 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH*. 

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

CHOLERA.— HEN DISTEMPER. 

Though this disease is of comparatively recent appearance, it is the 
most dreaded of all the maladies which afflict poultry. Its nature is per- 
haps malarial, and it is certainly epidemic and highly contagious. Owing, 
however, to its obscure origin and character, any disorder that is not under- 
stood is quite likely to be called cholera. 

Causes. — It is caused, or at least promoted, by over-crowding in the 
coop (though it invades flocks which have extensive runs), and its develop- 
ment is favored by filth, unwholesome and irregular feed, exposure in 
damp, malarial localities, stagnant drinking-water, extremes of heat and 
dryness, and other unfavorable conditions mentioned in the opening re- 
marks on health. It attacks fowls of all ages, but more readily the older 
ones, and the very large and high-fed are especially liable to become its 
victims. It is a well-grounded suspicion that the droppings contain the 
germs of the disease, and some confidently maintain that it is the sole me- 
dium of its infection. It is certain that special pains should be taken to re- 
move them and render them harmless by carbolic acid or, still better, by 
covering them deeply with the plow. 

Symptoms. — Owing to the liability of confusion with other diseases a 
special study of the following symptoms is of the first moment. The fowl 
at first becomes weak, sometimes extremely so, staggers, and perhaps falls; 
is dejected, sleepy, moping, and does not plume itself; has much thirst and 
fever; gapes frequently; discharges from the bowels, mild at first, become 
yellowish-green or like sulphur and water, growing thinner, greener and 
frothy in the later stages, causing increased prostration, and persisting until 
death in fatal cases; the skin about the vent perhaps very red, with black 
spots; the animal may be " tucked up " with cramps; the crop fills with 
wind and mucus, making the breathing fast and heavy; the fowl finally 
fails to digest its food; the eyes are closed a few hours before death. Among 
the later symptoms is the change of the comb and wattles to a pale or dark 
hue. If the bird is opened after death, the liver will be found enlarged, 
congested, full of dark blood, show a dark-green color, and be so tender 
that it can be easily crushed with the fingers; the gizzard will be more or 
less softened, often much contracted, and be filled with dried or greenish 
food ; the crop and intestines will perhaps be filled with sour, fermenting 
food and mucus, possibly ulcerated, the intestines being much inflamed ; the 
blood will be darker and thicker than usual; the lungs and other organs 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 879 

will be engorged with blood; the heart enlarged; the testicles more or less 
changed. 

Treatment. — Treat promptly in the beginning. Remove the whole 
flock at once to clean quarters, if possible, affording a dry, gravelly loca- 
tion not previously used, and provide healthful housings. Separate the sick 
and suspected from the others and give to each, if practicable, a place by 
itself. Such isolation is desirable even for such as are supposed to be well, 
to prevent a spread of the scourge. In general, observe as strictly as the 
circumstances will permit, the directions previously given for " Health of 
Poultry " and "Precautions in Sickness." These measures will tend to 
reduce the percentage of deaths, but the saving of all the flock need not be 
expected. 

Fowls which are too sick to eat should have every four or five hours a 
pill made after the following formula of Dr. Dickie: Blue mass, 60 grains; 
pulverized camphor, 25 grains; cayenne pepper, 30 grains; pulverized rhu- 
barb, 48 grains; laudanum, 60 drops. Mix and make twenty pills. After 
three or four pills have been taken, give to each bird half a teaspoonful of 
castor oil and ten drops of laudanum. Give a scanty drink of scalded sour 
milk, with the Douglass Mixture (see page 874) added in such quantities 
that twenty-five fowls will get a gill of it per day. It is also well to add a 
little tannic acid to the Douglass Mixture. Allow no other drink. The 
one here mentioned is recommended even if the pills are not used. If the 
evacuations from the bowels become darker and of a firmer consistence, as 
they should under this treatment, give a drink of alum-water, or strong 
oak-bark tea, but no other, being careful not to make the change unless 
such a condition of the droppings has ensued. The latter drink tends to 
check the discharges. 

It is evident that the pills prescribed above are pretty " heroic." An- 
other meritorious remedy, especially in the earlier stages, or at any time 
when the crop remains full, is made of ten drops of strong tincture of 
eucalyptus globulus, five grains of common salt and half a teaspoonful of 
ground pepper, forcing it down in a tablespoonful of water (Parker). 

One writer vouches for the efficacy of the following: — Powdered 
garlic, one ounce; tincture of capsicum, two drachms; tincture of camphor, 
two drachms; tincture of rhubarb, a half-ounce; tincture of opium, one 
drachm; tincture of the oil of peppermint, three drachms; all well mixed 
and then shaken so that the garlic does not settle, the dose being six to eight 
drops in a teaspoonful of water three times a day. 

Since one flock responds to a given treatment more readily than another 
does, we make mention of other remedies which have been tried with more 
or less success. Take equal parts of red (or cayenne) pepper, alum, rosin 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

and sulphur, mix well and put into the food once a day, a tablespoonful 
to three pints of scalded meal. Another remedy: Two tablespoonfuls of 
epsom salts, four of lime, and ten drops of tincture of iron, put into a 
gallon of meal. Again, coal oil is highly recommended, a few drops being 
put into the food, and is well worth a trial. The simple treatment of con- 
fining the fowls to a stiff paste of flour and water is of questionable efficacy, 
though it doubtless tends to lessen the rapidity in the action of the bowels, 
and, since it will thus retard the prostration, the paste may be used as a part 
of the food. 

To well fowls, and those slightly affected, give in the food a little 
sulphur, soda, cayenne pepper and tincture of iron, a different one each day, 
and add carbolic acid or fluid carbolate to the drink. As food for both of 
these classes good authority favors warm boiled potatoes mashed up with 
bran (or wheat, oatmeal, or barley meal) and sour milk, mixed with a 
little pulverized charcoal and bicarbonate of soda. If the Douglass Mix- 
ture is added to the food, it will have a good effect on the well birds. As a 
preventive, nothing has been found that is better than coal oil, or kerosene, 
which may be given by soaking grain in it several hours before feeding it, 
or by mixing a tablespoonful in a half-gallon of cornmeal. Powdered 
charcoal in small quantities, put into the feed, will have a favorable tend- 
ency. For obvious reasons lice and mites should be kept away, the food 
be digestible and regularly given, the surroundings be absolutely clean, and 
all hygienic measures be observed to keep up the tone of the system. 

ROUP.— CROUP.— ASTHMA.— YAWS. 

Roup is the second of the two most dreaded diseases of fowls and is, 
therefore, given the second mention. It is a highly contagious malady 
which first affects the lining membrane of the beak and then extends to 
the eyes, throat and whole head, eventually involving the entire constitu- 
tion. According to its more manifest symptoms, it has been called diph- 
theria, sore head, swelled eyes, hoarseness, bronchitis, canker, snuffles, influ- 
enza, sore throat, quinsy, blindness, and by other names, though some of 
these are hereafter treated as separate diseases. It attacks all ages, but the 
older birds more readily. It occasionally kills young ducks and turkeys. 

Causes. — Filth, poor shelter, bad food, indeed anything which reduces 
the tone of the system will favor the development of the disorder. Ex- 
posure to wet and cold, and neglect of slight diseases of the nose, mouth, 
and air-passages are prolific sources of the ill or at least conditions inviting 
its appearance. It follows from the last remark that prompt attention to 
other less malignant disorders may prevent much trouble and save many 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 881 

lives. It is .contracted by a well fowl coming in contact with a sick one, 
or with the discharges from the eyes, nose and mouth, whether at the 
drinking-place or elsewhere. The effluvia arising from the droppings is 
an active provoking cause. If the discharge gets into the human eye 
or on any break in the skin, it may produce serious inflammation, a fact 
which makes it necessary to use great caution in handling the affected 
animals. 

Symptoms. — These develop either slowly or rapidly, beginning with 
the general signs of a bad cold in the head, such as wheezing, coughing or 
sneezing, high fever and great thirst. The discharge from the nose and 
eyes is yellowish, being at first thin but growing thicker, opaque, very offen- 
sive, and clogging up or even closing the eyes, nostrils and throat; these 
parts and the whole head are swollen, sometimes enormously, so that 
blindness ensues, making the fowl unable to get its food, and thus hastening 
the decline of the system ; pustular sores form about the head and in the 
throat, discharging a frothy mucus; the breathing is impeded; the crop 
often swells; the comb and wattles maybe pale or dark-colored; during 
the course of the disease the fowl is feeble and moping. A fatal case 
terminates in from three to eight days after the distinctive roup-symptoms 
set in, and those which are not treated when an epidemic is prevailing will 
generally be fatal. Upon opening a dead fowl one will find the liver and 
gall-bladder full of pus, the flesh soft, of a bad odor, and, particularly about 
the lungs, slimy and spongy. 

Treatment. — It is of the highest importance that treatment begin as 
soon as the first symptoms appear. To detect the approach of the disease 
— and any bird in the flock should be suspected if one has been infected — 
raise the wing and ascertain whether the feathers beneath it are stuck 
together by the discharge from the nostrils during sleep. Keep a close 
watch on the nostrils and relieve the slightest clogging. At night visit 
the roosts with a lantern and listen particularly for evidences of obstructed 
breathing. Remove at once from the flock all infected and suspected 
fowls, putting each by itself if practicable. Rigidly observe the directions 
about cleanliness, disinfection, the removal of droppings, and other par- 
ticulars which have been given for cholera. Take particular pains to keep 
the discharge out of the reach of well fowls, especially by the purification 
of drinking- vessels and other tainted objects; for which purpose carbolic 
acid will be a valuable agent. Give to the sick fowls warm, stimulating 
food, with some cayenne pepper. Onions will have a good effect if 
chopped fine and mixed in the feed. Provide warm, dry, gravelly or sandy 
shelter. The well fowls, too, should have absolutely wholesome food and 
housing. No remedy can be relied upon to cure all case6 of malignant 
56 



882 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

roup, but either ot several will often be found measurably successful. A 
teaspoonful of castor oil is advisable in the beginning. No other medicine 
yet tried has been as good as the German Roup Pills, and they will cure 
when anything can. Along with them give as a stimulant three pills daily, 
as large as a pea, made of mustard and ground ginger. Also give pepper- 
tea as a drink, as strong as for a human being. There is high authority in 
favor of giving three pills a day, as large as the fowl can swallow, made 
of equal parts of pulverized sulphur, powdered charcoal and new yeast, 
with some such stimulant as is mentioned above. In all cases, put a little 
powdered charcoal in the feed. When the disease persists for several days, 
repeat the castor-oil purge recommended for the beginning. 

Attention to the eyes, nostrils and face is absolutely essential. Wash 
the head thoroughly with a solution of chlorate of potash and warm water, 
equal parts, until the eyes and nostrils are opened and clean. Labarraque's 
Solution of Chlorinated Soda is a still better wash, one part of it to two of 
tepid water, and it should be used several times a day if the discharge is 
excessive. Pure castile soap and warm water make another good wash. 
When the discharge from the nostrils is excessive, it is advisable to inject 
into them camphorated sweet oil, either through the external openings, or 
from the inside through the slits in the roof of the mouth. For the last 
operation, the small oil-can used about the sewing-machine will be con- 
venient. Nitric acid is sometimes applied to the nostrils with a feather two 
or three times a day, the old scab being removed each time. If the throat 
is clogged with secretions, clear it out and apply the Chlorinated Soda be- 
fore mentioned with a camel's-hair brush. When the throat is swollen, re- 
lief may be afforded by painting it with a weak solution of lunar caustic 
(nitrate of silver), and putting into the drink ten drops of a solution of 
equal parts of sulphite of magnesia and carbolate of lime. Difficulty in 
breathing may be relieved in any stage by steaming; for which purpose 
hold the head in a vessel containing scalded bran, still steaming, closing a 
cloth neatly around the head to prevent the escape of the steam at the 
sides, being careful not to keep the fowl in this position so long at one 
time as to suffocate it. A hot stone in vinegar would be an excellent sub- 
stitute for the scalded bran, and, indeed, some vinegar in the bran would be 
serviceable. If patient bathing and steaming do not reduce the swelling 
in the eyes, it may be necessary to open the tumor with a sharp knife and 
remove the deposit. When the fowl is blind, so that it cannot eat, the 
food should be put within its reach, or even brought to its mouth, and al- 
ways be so soft that the soreness of the throat shall not prevent swallowing. 

When the fowl has recovered, keep it away from the flock some time 
and give it for several days a tonic, as tincture of iron, or rusty nails in the 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 



883 



drink, or cayenne pepper, garlic, asafcetida, gentian or onions in the food. 
The Douglass Mixture (see page 874) is among the best of tonics. 

GAPES. 

Chickens, turkeys, ducks and other domestic fowls, as well as many 
species of wild birds, are subject to a disease which is known by the gen- 
eral name " gapes," so called from the chief and universal symptom. 

Cause. — The cause of this destructive malady is the presence in the 
windpipe of a pale-reddish worm, popularly known as the gape-worm. 




Gape-Worm and Eggs 



209. Gape- Worm when the Female is Laden 
with Eggs. 



The female is about five-eighths of an inch long, having a diameter of one- 
thirty-fifth of an inch. The male is one-eighth of an inch long, with a 
diameter of one-fiftieth of an inch, and is always attached to the female as a 
short branch, so that the two present the appearance of a single forked worm. 
The head of the female is much larger than that of the male, and is sup- 
plied with six lips. Of the accompanying illustrations in 20S, 1 shows 
the two sexes together, natural size; the upper part of the same highly 



884 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

magnified is represented in 2. The tail of the female is shown in 3, this 
particular one illustrating a marked instance of the general tendency of 
this part to turn up in folds. The tail of the male, terminating in an ex- 
tended cup or sucker, by means of which is effected the union with the 
female, is shown by 4 ; 5 is one of the eggs, while 6 is the same with the 
embryo far advanced in development. All of these except the first are 
much magnified. 

This worm is very prolific in the generation of its young, and pro- 
duces them by depositing eggs either directly in the windpipe or in the 
food, drink, droppings, soil, or other places from which they can be intro- 
duced into the throat. The cuts in 209 exhibit the gape-worm when the 
female is heavily laden with eggs, which are best seen on the jointed 
branches. The second and fourth are life-size, the first and third being the 
same highly magnified. The eggs will retain their life through much se- 
vere exposure and harsh treatment, and their small size (about 1 -250th of 
an inch in their greatest diameter) shields them from notice. Indeed, it is 
believed that even the lice carry them on their bodies to the fowls, and 
this view perhaps sufficiently explains the facts from which some have 
concluded that the gape-worm is one of the forms assumed by the louse. 
The disease occurs oftenest in midsummer, in unthrifty birds, or in those 
which have filthy quarters and unwholesome food and drink. It is most 
common in young birds, though the older ones are not entirely exempt. It 
prevails especially on premises where large flocks are kept. 

Symptoms. — Constant gaping is the distinctive symptom, and is at- 
tended with difficult breathing, wheezing, coughing, unsuccessful attempts 
to swallow, drooping, and if not arrested, general debility and death. 
Every instance of gaping must not, however, be assumed as a case of real 
gapes, for it may arise from mucus or other obstruction in the throat, or 
from " crop-bound." The experienced observer will detect the ailment 
by the difference in severity of the symptom. Yet the treatment detailed 
below may be safely followed. 

Treatment. — This aims at the removal and destruction of the worms 
in the windpipe. The easiest and most certain treatment consists in putting 
some clear, transparent carbolic acid into a spoon or iron saucer and hold- 
ing it over a lamp until dense white fumes arise, the fowl's head being held 
in these fumes until it is nearly suffocated. A number can be subjected to 
this treatment at once by putting them into a close box in which the fumes 
are generated, but extreme care will be necessary about continuing it so 
long as to kill them. The fumes of sulphur, similarly applied, are a good 
substitute, as is also the vapor arising from heated spirits of turpentine or 
creosote. 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 



885 



Another excellent treatment is to strip a feather of the web, except 
more or less of the tip, according to the size of the patient, dip it in turpen- 
tine or kerosene oil, thrust it into the windpipe and turn it around several 
times before withdrawing it. Some of the worms will come out with it, 
others will be killed, and still others will be immediately coughed up. In 
whatever way they are removed, they should be caught on a paper and 
burned. The same treatment in substance may be effected, with more cer- 
tainty of removing the worms, by stripping a 
feather as just directed (leaving about three-fourths 
of an inch of the web for a chick of two to six 
weeks), bending it down, without breaking or 
cracking it, just below the web that is left, so that 
it will make a smooth, sharp angle that can be 
easily thrust into the throat. The accompanying 
cut shows the feather before and after it is bent. 
While an assistant holds the patient, open the beak 
with the finger and thumb of one hand, take the 
quill in the other, dip it in a solution of three parts 
of spirits of turpentine to one of water, and thrust 
the sharp angle into the windpipe as far as it will 
go, twist it rapidly around, meanwhile drawing it 
out. A worm will almost surely come away with 
it. Repeat the operation three or four times to 
effect a cure, burning the worms that are removed. 
Care must be taken to insure the insertion of the 
feather into the windpipe, not into the gullet. ^ 
Thrust it down through the opening which an ex- 
amination will reveal in the middle of the tongue. 
The size of the feather should be carefully adjust- 
ed to the fowl, being large enough to fill the wind- 
pipe pretty closely. Mr. T. Conner, in recom- 
mending this method, says he " never failed to 
cure the worst case of gapes in this way." Good 
results may be expected if the feather is dipped into oil, salt-water, a weak 
decoction of tobacco, or a weak solution of carbolic or sulphurous acid, in- 
stead of the turpentine. A horse-hair, twisted up so as to form a fine loop, 
may be successfully used to remove the worms, being twisted around as 
directed for the feather, but it has no tendency to expel such as may not be 
reached. 

Turpentine smeared on the beak and neck is by some said to be suffi- 
cient. Camphor pills as large as a pea, or pieces of camphor-gum as large 




210. A Feather Stripped and 
Bent for the Removal of 
Gape- Wo rms. 



886 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

as grains of wheat, once a day, may be found sufficient, either alone or in 
connection with camphor or turpentine in the water or food, ten drops to a 
pint. Powdered alum or sulphur blown down the windpipe will kill the 
worms (and the patient too, if administered too freely or too often). Again, 
by putting the fowls into a box covered with fine muslin and dusting lime 
through it the worms may be destroyed, but caution must be used lest the 
birds be smothered. Even as simple a treatment as crushed corn soaked in 
alum- water or kerosene oil is commended by some. The practice of 
pinching the throat to cause the worms to loose their hold, so they can be 
coughed up, is of doubtful wisdom, but may be tried when the windpipe 
is so full as to threaten suffocation. It may then be found necessary, when 
all other expedients have failed, to dislodge the worms by surgical means. 
Almost any one can perform the required operation by holding the wind- 
pipe firmly, so it can not slip or roll, and then making a short slit with a 
keen blade not far from the throat, along the windpipe, and not across it. 
After removing the worms and anointing the inside with weak carbolic 
acid, turpentine or kerosene oil, sew up only the cut that is made in the out- 
side of the skin, leaving the windpipe to heal of its own accord. 

Preventive Measures. — Remove the sick fowls from the flock to pre- 
vent infection. Burn all that die of the malady, and all worms that are 
found. Soak with kerosene oil, crude petroleum or strong carbolic acid 
the coops, roosts and grounds before admitting well fowls to them. Rigidly 
avoid all food that has been in the infected place, and burn it. When the 
disease has invaded a flock, add to the drinking-water fluid carbolate, cam- 
phor or lime. Boil the water before giving it if it is suspected of being 
the cause. When the premises are badly infected, raise the young fowls 
indoors, or in any place completely removed from danger. In some cases 
it may be found that the feed is the sole cause of the disease, and a change 
to corn (crushed if the fowls are too small to swallow it whole) may 
give complete relief, though the precautions for cleaning the apartments 
must still be observed and the water be kept pure. 

COLD.— CATARRH.— COUGH.— BRONCHITIS. 

All of these are substantially different stages and symptoms of the same 
disorder. Exposure to wet and cold is the general cause. Cough is, in- 
deed, a symptom, not a disease, and is connected with the other three. It 
may, however, attend other diseases, and when its cause is not known the 
articles pertaining to roup and cholera should especially be consulted. 
Bronchitis is but an advanced stage or aggravated form of cold or catarrh. 
The three are marked by more or less discharge from the eyes and nostrils, 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 887 

sneezing, wheezing, and, particularly in bronchitis, coughing and a rat- 
tling, hoarse sound in the throat. To distinguish these from roup, see 
whether the discharge is offensive. If it is, roup is to be treated ; if not, 
catarrh or bronchitis. In all cases of doubt, use the precautions detailed 
for roup. 

Treatment. — Remove the fowls to warm, dry shelter and give warm, 
soft food. These measures will usually be sufficient, but the following will 
be valuable as aids: For cold or catarrh merely — and no distinction between 
them is here made — put three drops of the strong tincture of aconite in a pint 
of the drink; if there is swelling about the throat, two or three grains of the 
second trituration of mercurius three times a day will be useful; euphrasia, 
the same as to form, dose and frequency, is desirable for worse instances of 
this symptom. For bronchitis, in addition to the measures just named, give 
sweetened water for the drink, adding a few drops of nitric or sulphuric 
acid. For both catarrh and bronchitis give some stimulant, as ginger or 
cayenne pepper in the food. The German Roup Pills will also be found of 
service. Treat catarrh and cold promptly, to keep them from developing 
into roup. Do not neglect bronchitis, lest it run into consumption. 

CONSUMPTION. 

This arises from neglected colds, catarrh and bronchitis, as also from 
long-continued in-and-in breeding, confinement in dark, unwholesome 
quarters, and heredity. Its essential feature is a tubercular deposit in the 
lungs, with a general derangement of the constitution. 

Symptoms. — In the earlier stages there are no obvious symptoms. 
Later, a cough comes on, with weakness and loss of flesh, however good 
the feeding. When a cough persists in spite of all treatment, consumption 
should be suspected. 

Treatment. — " Take a sharp hatchet and apply it just back of the 
comb," is Mr. Ward's laconic advice. The affected fowl is worthless for 
flesh or for breeding. 

PIP. 

By this term, which has been indiscriminately applied to so many affec- 
tions, is here meant the disorder which is marked by a horny scale at the 
point of the tongue. It is only a symptom of some disease, but it demands 
treatment to avoid a possible case of catarrh or roup. It is probably caused 
by exposure in damp or cold weather. 

Symptoms. — Beside the scale on the tip of the tongue, there will be 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

noticeable a peculiar pip, or "zip" noise; breathing disturbed and effected 
through the mouth; dry tongue; moping and retiring mood; loss of appe- 
tite; irregular and dilatory movements; generally costiveness, perhaps from 
indigestion; sometimes considerable heat of the body, especially in the belly 
near the thighs. 

Treatment. — Afford dry, warm shelter. If there be costiveness or 
indigestion, give a dose of castor oil. Apply to the tongue and nostrils a 
weak solution of chlorinated soda, if any local remedy is used, but do not 
clip off the end of the tongue, as some have advised. Spongia, as recom- 
mended for mercurius in catarrh, may be used on general principles. The 
treatment, which consists merely in giving two or three grains of black 
pepper each day in fresh butter may be resorted to with a good deal of 
confidence. In any case, give no food except such as has been cooked and 
is easily digested. 

CHIP. 

Chip, or chipping, so named from the peculiar noise made by the pa- 
tient, is a disease which resembles roup, and attacks young chickens, with 
very fatal results if not promptly treated. It arises from exposure to wet, 
in consequence of which the down on the body is kept wet for a long time. 

Symptoms. — The plaintive "chip" is continued; the feathers droop 
and lose their gloss; the chicken is very tender when touched, retires to a 
solitary place, sits trembling constantly and violently, having fever and 
heat of the body, and gradually sinks and dies. 

Treatment. — Remove the patient to a dry, warm place, handling it 
gently. In the early stages give coichicum every two or three hours, ten 
drops of the strong tincture being put into a pint of water, and ten to fif- 
teen drops of this dilution being taken for a dose. 

CANKERS ABOUT THE MOUTH AND HEAD. 

These have been already alluded to as being perhaps particular mani- 
festations of roup, and it is best, in general, to proceed with the treatment 
detailed for that malady. Such cankers, if they exist independently of roup, 
are caused by poor housing, filth and unwholesome food. They are marked 
by a watery discharge from the eyes and a somewhat sticky secretion in 
the mouth and throat. If it is known that roup is not the seat of the dis- 
order, it will be sufficient to wash the affected parts with warm water 
(adding castile soap if they are gummy), clean out the throat and mouth 
with a weak solution of chlorate of potash, alum and water, swab off the 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 889 

ulcers with a feather or very soft brush, and apply powdered borax in small 
quantities to the spots thus made bare. Stir into the food a little sulphur. 

DIPHTHERIA. 

Reference has been made to this as a manifestation of roup. Though 
it is treated separately by some, it is deemed best in this work, for precau- 
tionary reasons if for no other, to refer the reader to the remarks upon that 
disease. It may, however, be remarked that, if one has a fowl suffering 
from a mouth and throat filled with mucus, and attended with small white 
ulcers about the tongue, it is advisable to blow into the mouth and throat 
powdered burnt alum, or equal parts of chlorate of potash and pulverized 
borax, being careful to remove the patient to prevent possible infection. 
Should this effect a cure, one may be confident that the disorder was not 
diphtheria in any true sense of the term. 

SORE EYES AND HEAD. 

The eyes may become sore from dust, excessive heat, dampness, and 
other causes, and give out a watery discharge. The whole head may be- 
come involved in the inflammation. Such mild affections are to be dis- 
tinguished from cankers and from roup; but it is always safe to keep a 
sharp look-out for roup when the eyes are sore. 

Treatment. — Wash the parts with a weak solution of white vitriol 
(sulphate of zinc), or with alum-water, or with a solution of alum and 
camphor. If the discharge has become gummy or hardened, remove it 
with warm water and castile soap, following up with one of the lotions 
here named, or with one of sulphate of lead. Give sulphur in the food, 
using the powdered form. Avoid the exciting causes mentioned above. 

INDIGESTION.— DYSPEPSIA. 

This disorder is a failure to properly digest and assimilate the food, 
and exhibits a variety of causes, conditions and results. It more frequently 
arises from too rich, unwholesome, or excessive food, too free use of grain 
and other hard feed, cold, general weakness, to say nothing of it as a symp- 
tom of various other affections. 

Symptoms. — Listless mood; want of appetite; sometimes scanty drop- 
pings, sometimes free, as in diarrhoea and dysentery; fever; crop swollen 
in some cases, with a " tucked-up " appearance, as if from pain in the 
stomach; perhaps a sickly, yellowish hue in the comb and wattles, indica- 



890 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

tive of disorder in the liver: in young chickens, sometimes sinking of the 
breast-bone. 

Treatment. — Give less food and only such as is soft, mild and easily 
digested. Limit the drink. Give cm green grass or chopped onions in 
the food. See Crop-Bound, Constipation and Diarrhoea. 

LIVER DISEASE. 

This name, used in all domestic practice with such an indefinite mean- 
ing, is here applied to a disease of the liver which causes loss of flesh, a 
sickly appearance about the comb, wattles and head, and sudden death. 
The liver, upon opening the dead fowl, is found soft, with cheesy matter in 
different parts of it, and sometimes a broken blood-vessel. It is said to be 
more common in Cochins. It is best to destroy an affected fowl at once. 
One authoritv recommends small doses of mercurv followed bv cod-liver 
oil and Parrish's Food as being of measurable value. 

CROP-BOUND AXD WATER-CROP. 

The crop ma}- become engorged in consequence of the swallowing of 
a bone, hard corn or other indigestible food which closes the passage into the 
stomach. The latter organ being empty, hunger may induce the taking of 
more food, and thus aggravate the difficulty. Indigestion alone may cause it. 
In addition to the hardness of the crop, the fowl is uneasy and tosses its head. 

Treatment. — Give very little or no food for a time. If this does 
not afford relief, pour down the throat some warm water and gently knead 
the crop for an hour, or until its contents are soft, then give two teaspoon- 
fuls of castor oil. If the difficulty still persists, take a sharp knife and cut 
a slit an inch long, more if necessary, in the top or at the side, and remove 
the contents gently but thoroughly with the handle of a spoon, afterward 
passing the finger, previously oiled, all over the inside, to be sure that 
evervthing is taken out (particularly from the opening toward the stomach). 
Sew up the external skin with white silk, or, better still, with surgeons' 
thread, being careful not to stitch it to the crop, and leaving the wound in 
the latter to heal of its own accord. Anoint the parts with witch-hazel 
oil. Give no food or drink for twenty-four hours, and for a week there- 
after only a small allowance of soft, easily-digested food. 

Bv -:atcr-crop is meant a form of crop-bound which results from 
greediness in taking drink. The crop is not so hard and may contain wind 
or gas with the water. The disorder is corrected by cutting down the 
feed and the drink for some days, and putting chopped onions or garlic, or 




891 



892 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

cayenne pepper in what food is given. Also put into the morning feed 
sal volatile, half a teaspoonful to each fowl, and into the drink a little 
nitric acid. Do not mistake this for true crop-bound. 

COSTIYENESS.— CONSTIPATION. 

Costiveness is caused by indigestion, taking cold, too close confine- 
ment, too much dry food and too little green, deficient supply of good 
water, and the like. It is indicated by frequent attempts to evacuate the 
bowels, either wholly unsuccessful or resulting only in small, hard and 
dark droppings. The fowl is uneasy and perhaps staggers. 

Treatment. — Give an abundance of green food, and a soft mixture 
of bran and oatmeal. Ten drops of sulphate of magnesia may be added 
to a joint of the drinking-water. Along with an observance of these direc- 
tions for the food it will be well to give aconite until the restlessness disap- 
pears, following then with nux vomica ; or, if a cold is the cause, give 
brvonia. The last three remedies are to be given on the homoeopathic 
plan, in doses as for children, according to the age. 

DIARRHCEA AND DYSENTERY. 

These disorders may result from an excessive use of green food, tainted 
food or impure water, extreme heat, exposure in damp weather, filthy quar- 
ters, general indigestion, poisons, or any inflammatory affection of the in- 
testines or stomach. 

Symptoms. — Loose droppings of different colors, which befoul the 
feathers; lassitude and loss of condition. In dysentery, which results from 
a diseased condition of the intestines, the droppings are more frothy, min- 
gled with blood and attended with rapid prostration. A form of diarrhoea 
essentially different from the two described, occurs in old female fowls, in 
which a white discharge comes away more or less constantly, often drib- 
bling out, and keeps the feathers about the vent encrusted with a white, 
chalk-like deposit. It i> doubtless due to some derangement in the shell- 
making function, and can best be treated by promoting the general health 
and using the means noted below. 

Treatment. — Give two pills daily, as large as a pea, made of a mix- 
ture of five grains of powdered chalk, five of rhubarb and three of cayenne 
pepper, adding one-half grain of opium in severe cases. Another good 
remedy is camphorated spirits on barley-meal, three to six grains for each 
bird according to the age; or ten to twenty drops of the same may be put 
in a pint of the drink. For mild cases, and in the early stages of others, 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 893 

finely-powdered chalk on boiled rice may be sufficient. The remedy last 
named is recommended for the white discharges of old females, for which 
the pills prescribed above should also be tried, as well as a little lime-water 
(see page 875). Restrict the drink in all forms of these disorders, and 
put into it a little alum or tincture of iron. Dysentery, with bloody dis- 
charges, is a serious disorder; it is best to give a dose of castor oil and fol- 
low with three to six drops of laudanum every few hours, supplying an ex- 
clusive diet of mild gruels. It is of importance that the patient be kept 
quiet and apart from the flock, especially in dysentery. Homoeopathic 
doses, every two hours, of ipecac and chamomilla can be recommended 
with confidence, as can arsenicum when bad food is the cause. In spite of 
all treatment diarrhoea may become chronic. If so, and even before, small 
doses of sweet oil may be found beneficial. In all cases keep a sharp look- 
out for cholera and isolate the affected bird when you are at all doubtful 
regarding the nature of the disorder. Bone-dust is used as a preventive of 
diarrhoea and it is well to put a little in the feed for some days after a cure 
has been effected, and also to thus occasionally administer it to well fowls. 

WORMS. 

Worms in the stomach will produce substantially the same symptoms 
as indigestion. If they are in the bowels, costiveness or diarrhoea may be 
more marked, while the fowl will be uneasy and pick at the vent if they 
are in the lower part of the intestine. In all cases there will be more or 
less loss of flesh, and often diminished gloss in the feathers, while the bird 
has either an impaired or voracious appetite. The only unmistakable 
symptom is the presence of worms in the droppings when they first pass 
out. An unhealthy condition of the digestive organs is the main cause. 

Treatment. — A dose of castor oil, followed by a light addition of 
sulphur to the food, may expel the worms and restore the general health. 
A little cayenne pepper in the feed and rusty nails in the water will aid the 
cure. The use of cina and santonine can be highly recommended. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE FORE-STOMACH. 

Inflammation of the stomach may arise from improper food, such as 
that which is too stimulating. Its symptoms are not readily distinguished, 
but it may be suspected when a fowl pines away without an obvious cause 
and chooses only soft, cold food, especially if there be increased thirst, a 
"tucked-up" appearance, and an abnormal heat in the fore part of the 
belly. Loose, corroding droppings may be noticed. 



894 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Treatment. — Give only soft, mild food and not very cold drink, 
using the treatment, in the main, that is detailed for Indigestion. 

CORE. 

This is a deposit or excrescence in the gullet, or in the organs of diges- 
tion further down, sometimes being dark, sometimes brownish-yellow, 
sometimes ochre-colored and mingled with blood. 

Treatment. — For obvious reasons it will hardly be detected unless a 
dead fowl is opened. Then others of the flock may, as a precaution, be 
treated with mercurius, china and silicea, upon the homoeopathic principle. 

PARALYSIS APOPLEXY.— MEGRIMS STAGGERS. 

These are all affections of the nervous system due to an excessive 
flow of blood to the head, or to a weak condition in the blood-vessels of 
the brain which makes them incapable of bearing their normal pressure. 
When a fowl is made to stagger from this cause, or to run in a circle, or 
flutter, without other manifestations, the disorder is called megrims, staggers, 
dizziness or vertigo. This may become chronic and thus leave no doubt 
regarding its nature; but mere dizziness and staggering also appear in 
constipation, roup, cholera, and other diseases characterized by weakness. 
Geese sometimes stagger in consequence of parasites in the ear, and ani- 
mals suffering from such a disorder will show symptoms so similar to 
those of real staggers that the difference will scarcely be detected. If the 
staggers are followed by falling and unconsciousness, apoplexy has come on. 
Either of these forms may show a temporary or permanent relief as soon 
as the blood leaves the brain. Should a blood-vessel be ruptured, the 
disorder is known as paralysis, and the fowl either dies at once or suffers 
an impairment or loss of the use of one or more of its limbs. Such par- 
alysis may be relieved and occasionally the recovery may be apparently 
complete. 

Cause. — In addition to the above causes, high feeding conduces to 
the pressure on the brain, Indian corn being especially bad for some breeds. 
Any too stimulating food tends to the same end, as well as mechanical in- 
juries, violent exertions, disorders of the spine, or even the mild straining 
in laying an egg. Some of these influences may give rise to temporary 
or permanent paralysis in the leg or wing, which will disappear if the 
exciting cause is removed. 

Treatment. — In all of these disorders, remove the patient from the 
flock and keep it free from excitement and in a dark place. Hold the 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 895 

head under a stream of cold water to drive the blood from the brain, and 
afterward give a light diet. Give aconite if the skin is dry and hot; bella- 
donna, for heat about the head and convulsive movements of the head; 
nux vomica, for the first indications of the disorder; opium for the uncon- 
scious state of apoplexy. Beside this treatment, and independently of it, 
paralysis may be benefited by one-sixteenth grain doses of strychnine, but 
it should not be resorted to until a day or two after the first paroxysm has 
occurred and the fowl has begun to hobble about and take its food. Either 
of these diseases may be profitably treated for some days after apparent 
recovery with two doses per day of bromide of potassium, four to ten 
grains at a time, according to the age. It may be remarked, finally, that 
treatment has been detailed for fowls that are of a particular value for 
food, exhibitions, or eggs for the table, since those of little value are not 
worth the pains, and no affected bird is fit for breeding purposes. 

RHEUMATISM, CRAMPS AND GOUT. 

Rheumatism is generally caused by exposure to wet, as in the grass in 
the morning, damp coops or roosts, and by hereditary influences. Cramps 
may arise from rheumatism, or from the same causes as the latter, but 
some forms are produced by indigestion, internal inflammation, diarrhoea 
and dysentery. In rheumatism the limbs suffer an impairment or loss of 
use, are hot, swollen and stiff, the toes being often drawn out of shape ; the 
fowl persistently sits down and can not use the perch; the heart may 
become involved and thus induce death, preceded by excitable uneasiness. 
In the treatment, give warm, dry shelter, and good, stimulating, easily 
digested food, including a little cooked meat each day. Rub the affected 
parts with hot mustard-water, immediately wiping them dry. Oil of 
witch-hazel is a good ointment, as are also lard and butter. 

Gout attacks Asiatics especially, and is characterized by hot, swollen 
and inflamed feet. Keep the fowl in a warm, dry place, and feed as for 
Rheumatism. Give three drops of the wine of colchicum twice a day and 
a quarter to a half of a grain of calomel at night. Rub the limbs with 
sweet oil. Give bryonia to turkeys suffering from this disease. 

DEBILITY AND LEG-WEAKNESS. 

Close confinement without fresh air, continued exhibitions, shock or 
fright, injuries, or imperfect development of the nervous system, may pro- 
duce general debility. The symptoms are loss of spirits, appetite and con- 
dition, with constitutional prostration. Insure rest. Give nourishing food, 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

a raw fresh egg being a good diet while the appetite is impaired, followed 
up with a little cooked meat. As a tonic, put a few drops of muriate of iron 
in the drinking-water, rusty nails in the water being also of service. 

Leg-weak?iess is due to prolonged in-and-in breeding, to high feeding, 
which increases the weight of the body more rapidly than the muscular 
strength, and to deficiency of the earthy matter of the bones. It most often 
attacks Cochins, Brahmas and other large breeds, and young cocks are 
more liable to it than others of a flock. Its nature should be closely 
studied so as to distinguish it from rheumatism, gout and debility. Its sole 
manifestation is repeated or constant squatting on the hocks or belly, some- 
times with utter inability to stand. In the way of treatment, feed wheat, 
barley, meat and other articles that do not tend to produce fat. In warm 
weather dip the legs in cold water twice a day. Give three times a day a 
pill made of a mixture of five grains of phosphate of lime, one-sixteenth of 
a grain of strychnine, and a half-grain of sulphate of quinine. Also supply 
a tonic of iron, a few drops of the tincture or some rusty nails in water. 
Occasionally give lime-water (see page 875) as a drink. 

SCALY LEGS.— ELEPHANTIASIS. 

This chiefly attacks old birds of the Asiatic breeds, and is caused by an 
insect which, with its eggs and cast-off skin, increases the size of the scales 
which form on the legs. Too close confinement, over-feeding, damp or 
muddy quarters, insufficient meat and too little green food are exciting 
causes. The insects sometimes infest the comb and then require the treat- 
ment given below. The disease is contagious and may be transmitted to 
other animals or to man. It is characterized by a whitish scurf on the legs 
and toes, sometimes a half-inch thick on the former, which may grow hard 
if neglected. 

Treatment. — Keep the fowl in a clean, dry place. Wash the legs 
well with water and soap, using a stiff brush to remove a part of the scurf 
at a time if it has become hard; then smear with lard and sulphur mixed, 
or with kerosene oil. Lard and coal-tar make a good ointment; vinegar or 
glycerine may be sufficient for mild cases. Some use a wash of a weak 
solution of sugar of lead in the morning and apply a dilution of creosote 
at night. Stoddard's Poultry Ointment will effect a cure without any of 
the above remedies. It should be kept on the shelf in every poultry-house 
convenient for use. Night is the best time to apply it. This disorder is 
sometimes called itch, but by the latter term we generally mean a condition 
in which parasites are in the skin. Another form of itch in poultry is con- 
sidered on the next page. 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 897 

BUMBLE-FOOT.— BOILS.— ABSCESSES.— TUMORS. 

Bumble-Foot is a swelling, wart, or corn on the ball of the foot which 
grows in size, becomes soft, and ulcerates. It is caused by bruises from 
alighting heavily on hard surfaces, and from roosting on small or rough 
perches. 

Treatment. — Remove the patient to quarters without perches. If the 
part be painted with iodine in the first stages, a cure will often be effected. 
Should the swelling continue and be slow in ulcerating, bind on a poultice 
of bread or turnip. After it has " gathered," open freely with a sharp 
blade, wash out the sore with warm water and castile soap, and dip the 
foot two or three times a day in water, to which has been added sulphate of 
copper in the proportion of one-fourth of an ounce to a quart of water. 
During the formation of pus, and while it is discharging, give mercurius. 

Boils and Abscesses may occur on any part of the body, and require 
the same treatment, in the main, as is recommended for Bumble-Foot. 

Fatty Tumors may form on various parts without causing any serious 
trouble aside from their inconvenience. As treatment, cut them out with a 
sharp knife, preserving the skin so it can be drawn completely over the 
opening. Sew the skin together, leaving a small hole at the lowest part for 
the pus to escape. Put on the sore thus left a lotion of calendula or arnica 
for a few days. Supply wholesome food and quarters to promote the health. 

CHICKEN-POX AND ITCH. 

Chicken-Pox. — This is characterized by small ulcers on the head and 
face, on which scabs will form. It is not to be confounded with roup; nor 
with the dry, horny scales which sometimes form on the face. It is con- 
tagious but not dangerous, occurs principally in cold, wet weather, and per- 
haps results from peculiar atmospheric conditions. In the treatment, keep 
the parts clean with water and castile soap and apply vinegar or a strong 
solution of chlorate of potash, giving a little sulphur internally. Put a tea- 
spoonful each of pulverized charcoal and sulphur in a pint of soft food. To 
prevent contagion, keep the sick fowls from the flock. 

Itch. — Fowls that are kept in unclean quarters and without fresh 
water are subject, in summer, to an itching eruption, with more or less loss 
of feathers. Insure absolute cleanliness. Give sulphur once daily for three 
days; then staphisagria for the same time; finishing with sulphur. If the 
eruption takes the form of ulcers, give dulcamara. It will be noticed that this 
disorder is not characterized by the presence of parasites in the skin, as is the 
case with itch in the human body. . Scrupulous cleanliness may suffice. 
57 



i^U^^ 




898 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 

WHITE-COMB AND SCURFY SKIN. 

When fowls, especially Cochins, are kept in small, unhealthy quarters, 
or are deprived of fresh green food, a whitish, dust-like scurf sometimes 
appears at the bottom of the comb, afterward covers all of it, and then ex- 
tends over the wattles and neck. The feathers on the affected parts lose 
their web, the bare quill being left, and it may in turn drop off, the fowl 
dying in extreme cases. The disorder is contagious. After recovery, the 
feathers will come off at the next moulting season. 

Treatment. — Remove the exciting causes mentioned above, in the 
diet and location. Apply Stoddard's Poultry Ointment, or a mixture of 
tar and sulphur. Good authority claims that turmeric has a special efficacy ; 
it may be used in an ointment made of one-quarter of an ounce of turmeric 
and one ounce of cocoanut oil. If lard be substituted for the cocoanut oil, 
as it may be, the ointment should be made fresh for every application, and 
should be occasionally removed thoroughly from the affected parts. Give 
internally ten to forty drops of castor oil, according to the age, with a tea- 
spoonful of powdered sulphur in the food. Remove the affected fowls to 
prevent contagion. 

A scurf resulting from the same causes as white-comb may appear 
about the face, comb and neck, perhaps in the form of dry, bony scales, 
but without the distinctive features of the disease last treated. The meas- 
ures given for white-comb are, however, to be adopted. Do not confound 
this with roup or chicken-pox because of the similar symptoms. 

BLACK-ROT. 

In consequence of indigestion, lack of variety in the feed, want of exer- 
cise or of green food, the comb may turn black, the feet and legs swell, and 
general loss of flesh take place. The malady is known as black-rot, and 
probably occurs oftenest in Spanish fowls. 

Treatment. — This is useless except in the early stages. Give then 
a light dose of castor oil, following with warm, nourishing food and some 
such simple tonic as rusty nails in the drink, or tincture of iron. Observe 
the general directions given for Indigestion. 

MOTTLED FACE AND EARS. 

Red spots sometimes appear on the face of black Spanish fowls, and 
on the ear-lobes of Leghorns and similar breeds. The keeping of the sexes 
together is the cause, and their separation the cure and prevention. Sweet 



900 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

oil, spirits of turpentine, or a superior article of whiskey may be smeared 
on to restore the original color. Confinement in dark quarters will aid, and 
it will also produce that whiteness of these parts which fanciers so much 
desire when exhibiting fowls at the public shows. 

BAD MOULTING AND FLEDGING. 

The period of moulting, in which the old feathers are shed and new 
ones come in, is a critical one for old fowls in particular, and only less so 
for others, in consequence of the drain on the digestive and other functions 
incident to the formation of the new coat. The process may be made slow 
or irregular by improper food, close confinement, prolonged in-and-in 
breeding, and other debilitating influences, and will then be marked by in- 
activity and general wasting. Akin to this function, not only in nature but 
also in origin and treatment, is fledging, or the formation of the first coat on 
young fowls. 

Treatment. — This is mainly the same for both moulting and fledg- 
ing. To assist the function, it is well in all cases to give a little tincture of 
iron, or to put some rusty nails in the drink, and slightly increase the al- 
lowance of lean meat. Add Douglass Mixture (see page 874) to the 
drink, a teaspoonful to each pint. Give soft warm food in the morning, 
and, for old birds especially, grain at night. Keep the fowls warm and out 
of the wet. Calcarea carbonica and agaricus are valuable remedies. 

SHOOTING-THE-RED. 

In turkeys the development of "the red" about the head and neck is 
as natural as moulting and fledging are to all birds. It is so unmistakable 
in its manifestations as to need no description. To assist the function, make 
powders of three parts of cassia bark, ten of ginger, one of gentian, one of 
anise and five of carbonate of iron. Give to each twenty turkeys, in the 
feed, a teaspoonful twice a day, commencing two weeks before it is time 
for the red to appear, and continuing some weeks afterward. 

LICE. 

Lice absorb the juices of the body and cause persistent pecking and 
scratching, great depression, loss of flesh, and even death. The symptoms 
are such as to create a suspicion of some serious constitutional derange- 
ment, and all poultry sick from a cause that is not certainly known should 
be examined to ascertain whether these pests are on the body. They are 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 901 

bred in great numbers in filthy quarters and nests, and in flocks deprived 
of earth-baths. They are especially prone to take shelter in the tufts of 
crested birds. 

Treatment. — Attend to the directions for " Cleanliness " given on 
page 869, remembering that the droppings and other filth are favorite 
haunts. Thoroughly dust into the roots of the feathers Persian Insect 
Powder, preferably with one of the powder blowers or bellows, In the 
absence of this, dip the fowls in a bath made of one part of carbolic acid 
and sixty of water. A good expedient is the application of suds of car- 
bolic soap on such places as are specially infested. The use of any such 
fluids as these should be attended with caution to prevent colds. An oint- 
ment of sulphur, kerosene oil and lard may be spread under the wings of 
full-grown fowls, but young ones have been injured and even killed by a 
too free use of kerosene, as well as by sulphur when mixed with lard. 
Smearing with simple lard, lard oil, or whale oil, is better for the young. 
A thorough rubbing or dusting with powdered sulphur has often been suf- 
ficient, and yellow snuff is highly recommended for the same purpose. 
Wormwood and tansy teas are good, as well as oil of fennel. Absinthum 
and sulphur are good internal remedies. Tone up the system with cayenne 
pepper, iron, nourishing food and cleanly quarters. 

RED MITES. 

These are scarcely less troublesome than lice, are exceedingly annoy- 
ing, and will survive very harsh treatment. 

Treatment. — Proceed as for lice. If the pests are not killed or 
driven off, and you are willing to stain the plumage of white birds, grind 
together two ounces of sulphur, two ounces of camphor soda, a half-ounce 
of carbolic acid or tobacco leaf, and a piece of lime as large as a hen's 
egg; steep in hot water until thoroughly mixed*, let the whole stand until 
perfectly settled, and then pour it off so as to get out all of the sediment. 
When it is cold, thoroughly spply it through the feathers with a stiff 
brush. The ointment of sulphur, lard and kerosene oil, recommended for 
lice, may be ™ T 2ll rubbed under the wings, on the back of the neck, and on 
the vert. It is a reliable remedy, but the cautions about its use on young 
fowls must be observed, or fatal effects will ensue. 

CHILLS.— FROST-BITE. 

Young fowls are sometimes benumbed by cold, and even apparently 
dead. They should be dipped in water as warm as the hand can comfort- 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

ably bear until they revive, and then be kept in a warm place until com- 
pletely restored. 

The comb, wattles and feet are especially exposed to the frost and 
may be deformed or destroyed thereby. In the less severe cases, the 
crown of the comb and edges of the wattles first become purplish and then 
pale and bloodless. Prevention is the best treatment and an excellent 
means to this end is the oiling of the exposed parts in the beginning of 
and during " cold snaps." At such times the thoughtful fancier will fre- 
quently examine his fowls to detect any existing or threatened cases. If 
possible, treat before the parts have thawed any. Rub on snow, very cold 
water, or pounded ice until the parts have become pliable ; then bathe with 
camphorated spirits, or with " hot drops." If the thawing has taken place 
by changes in the weather, it may be beneficial to apply sweet oil, glycer- 
ine or carbolate of cosmoline until all soreness subsides. 

DEFORMITIES. 

Bone-Wen, or Splint. — This is an enlargement or excrescence 
about the bones of the joints. It is incurable. 

Crooked Breast-Boxe. — This results from using perches that are 
too narrow or convex, and should be treated by removing the cau-e. 

Wry- Tail. — If this does not result from a deformed spine, it may be 
improved by cutting the tendon which draws the tail aside; or bv cutting 
out a bit of the flesh on the side opposite to that toward which the tail 
points, the healing of the cut forming a scar which will tend to draw the 
tail back to its normal position. 

Squirrel- Tail. — By this is meant a tail wfaicti turns up over the 
back like that of a squirrel. It is best treated by cutting the tendon which 
holds the tail in that position. 

Web-Foot. — Web-foot in young land-fowls may be cured bv cutting 
the web between the toes with scissors. The cut will heal spontaneously 

ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES. 

Poisons. — Too much caution cannot be taken when using rat's-bane, 
strong carbolic acid, Paris green and other poisons. Thev should be sedu- 
lously kept out of the reach of poultry. When it is known or suspected 
that poison has been taken, pour warm water down the throat and then 
hold the fowl up by the feet until it runs out. Repeat this several times. 

When a fowl meets with an accident which seriouslv disables it, the best 
treatment is to kill it, unless a special value attaches to it which will war- 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. U03 

rant the pains of prolonging the life of an animal which, at best, will prob- 
ably be maimed. A few injuries which may be subjected to treatment in 
specially valuable birds are here mentioned. 

Cuts and Other Wounds. — Clean out all dirt and other foreign 
substances. Draw the lips of the wound nicely together and secure them 
with strips of adhesive plaster (which will generally make it necessary to 
shave off some feathers), laying them across the wound and leaving spaces 
between them for the escape of any pus that may form. Dress with a 
lotion of calendula. To keep out maggots and ward off gangrene, put on 
some preparation of carbolic acid. Should the wound be much inflamed 
and slow in healing, apply the calendula-lotion. Sweet oil rubbed on any 
wound will exclude dirt and thus favor the healing. If the wound gapes 
badly, it may be sewed up. If the bleeding is profuse and does not stop 
after the lips are brought together, apply cold water or pounded ice. 

Cracked Hock. — The skin on the inside of the hock-joint may crack 
and seriously impair the use of the limb. The cracking is preceded by a 
weakness and wavering about the hock, perhaps even by squatting as in 
leg-weakness or rheumatism. Apply fir-balsam ointment to effect a cure. 
As a preventive, when the weakness about the hock is noticed, bathe the 
joints three times a day with a liniment made of sweet oil and ammonia, 
equal parts, and give two pills daily of lard, three parts, and cayenne 
pepper, one part. 

Bruises are best treated by applying calendula-lotion or arnica, 
though the efficacy of the latter is ridiculously exaggerated. 

Lameness. — When this is not a symptom of paralysis, gout, rheuma- 
tism or broken bone, it may result from a sprain, and is then best treated 
by pouring cold water on the affected joint and putting on some liniment. 

Broken and Dislocated Bones. — These disorders may exist without 
the knowledge of an observer, unless he is well versed in the anatomy of 
fowls. Though fractures will occasionally heal fairly well without treat- 
ment, fanciers will sometimes wish to try their hands at surgery in order 
to reduce the chances of deformities. Bring the broken ends together 
until they fit neatly, as indicated by the touch. Cover the part with thick 
paper previously well soaked in white of egg or mucilage, closely adapting 
it to the shape of the limb ; then bind on strips of pasteboard, also care- 
fully adjusted to the shape. Keep the fowl by itself, as quiet as possible, 
and deprived of the use of the limb if practicable. The resulting fever 
may be treated by showering the limb with cold water. When a wing is 
broken, bring the ends of the bone together as well as you can, close the 
wing, tie the quills together, secure the wing to the side, if possible, and 
prevent attempts to fly. 



904 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



Dislocations may be reduced by drawing the affected limb, gently and 
firmly, and turning it around in any direction which a knowledge of the 
joint suggests as suited to the return of the bones to their positions. 

DISORDERS PECULIAR TO FEMALE FOWLS. 

Some knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the organs con- 
nected with the formation and laying of the egg is requisite to an 
understanding of the, disorders peculiar to female fowls. Of the accom- 
panying cuts the first represents the ovary, resembling a cluster of fruits, 
in which the egg, first appearing as a very small 
yolk, is fertilized and remains a few days. It 
then passes into and through a canal, called the 





The Ovary. 



214. The Oviduct. 



A partially formed egg (see 214) is dropping from tne ovary into the upper end of the oviduct, and a 
mature one, ready to be laid, is near the lower end, close to the branch of the srut 



oviduct, shown in the second cut, in which it receives the successive layers of 
the white. It finally lodges in an enlargement called the uterus, in which 
it remains until it is ready to be expelled, or "laid." 

Egg-Bound. — Sometimes the egg in the uterus (represented by the 
enlargement toward the bottom of cut 214, near the lower end of the gut) 
becomes too large to be expelled, and the fowl remains on the nest in vain 



POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 905 

efforts to expel it, or comes off and walks about in a distressed mood, with 
the wings hanging. Cochins are especially subject to this difficulty. 
Relief may be afforded by giving a light dose of castor oil, but it is better 
to wash out the vent with water and inject into the uterus (not the gut) 
an ounce of sweet oil. If an oiled feather be passed up the canal, the 
same effect as that of an injection will be secured. The use of an in- 
strument to puncture or break the egg is dangerous, and should not be 
resorted to except as a last expedient. If this disorder is neglected, eggs 
may accumulate in the duct and form a large tumor. 

Eggs Broken in the Body. — Eggs may be broken in the body by 
mechanical injuries or by straining in laying them. This is usually fatal. 
Uneasiness and bagging-down behind are the distinctive symptoms. The 
treatment is an injection of a teaspoonful of castor or sweet oil. 

Soft Eggs. — Eggs without hard shells, or with such as are imper- 
fectly formed, may be laid occasionally or repeatedly. The causes are 
inflammation of the oviduct (see below), over-feeding, eating ergot, lack of 
shell-making food, and worry, as by driving fowls about. As treat- 
ment, remove the causes, give lime-water (see page 875), and put within 
reach of the fowl old mortar or powdered oyster shells. 

Inflammation of the Oviduct. — This results from taking cold, 
unwholesome or too stimulating food, and excessive attentions of the male. 
The symptions are general fever; feathers on the back and rump puffed 
out; continued straining, as if to lay an egg; eggs imperfectly formed, per- 
haps soft-shelled, or even simple yolks. In the way of treatment, keep 
the fowl away from the cock a long time. Give a grain of calomel and 
one-tenth of a grain of tartar emetic in meal, repeating the dose the next 
day if relief is not afforded. Give mild, easily digested food. 

Protrusion of the Oviduct. — -Hernia. — Straining to lay eggs or 
general debility of the system may cause the end of the oviduct to protrude 
from the vent. It may result in " breaking-down behind." Bathe the pro- 
truding part in blood-warm water, oil it, and gently push it back to its 
place with the finger, repeating the operation as often as necessary. Give 
such unstimulating articles of diet as boiled rice and potatoes, avoiding those 
which are known to tend to the production of eggs. Give aconite and 
mercurius internally; or give once a day tartar emetic and calomel as rec- 
ommended above for inflammation of the oviduct. 

Break-Down Behind. — Beside protrusion of the oviduct and broken 
eggs in the body, this disorder may be caused by an undue accumulation of 
fat in the hind parts. A cure may eventually be effected by a low diet 
when the last is the cause, but the fowl is unfit for breeding purposes. 
Cannabis may be of service. 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

Sweat Malady. — If one is so careless a> to allow his fowls to hatch 
in damp, musty coops, he may find them moist, clammy and black under 
the wings. The treatment consists in giving wholesome quarters, washing 
the parts and powdering them with flour. 

Sitting Fever. — When a fowl persi-ts in sitting, do not resort to the 
foolish and useless expedients of ducking in cold water, tying rags to the 
tail, and the like. Let the fever c; run its course," with or without eggs as 
you prefer. 

Feather-Eating. — This vice is almost wholly confined to hens, 
and is more common in the French breeds and Malays. Loomis' Poultry 
Bit is a sure cure. In connection with it, give fresh meat and bone crushed 
into small pieces, and indeed this diet alone will cure many cases. 

Egg— Eating. — If a fowl eats her egg>, she will probably teach the 
vice to others in the flock. To effect a cure, keep the nest in a dark place. 
Give fowls that are kept shut up plenty to do by forcing them to u scratch 
for a living," which may be done by putting all their grain under a pile of 
straw, leaves, or other material. The same measures are used as a preventive. 
Occasionally the hen eats the eggs to get the shells, in consequence of the 
absence of lime; at such times, keep old plaster, pounded oyster shells and 
lime-water (seepage S75 ) within her reach. If the vice is persisted in, 
benefit may arise from giving the hen a wide run, but the use of the hatchet 
on the neck is a sure cure, and prevents the fowl from setting a bad example. 







m v- . '■■-" rda&^W :v V". 



PART I2C. 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 




i 5 . THE FAMILY CHOIR. 

908 



PART IX. 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 

BY HERR GUSTAV STAINSKY (LATE OF GERMANY), 

Member of the Berlin Bird Society, and American Correspondent of the same; Importer of Harz 
Mountain Warbling Canaries; Proprietor of a Bird Hospital, Chicago. 




INTRODUCTION. 



HE cares and conflicting passions of life are most 
agreeably relieved by the varied tints of the flowers 
which clothe field and garden, and by the birds 
which flit among them, to please with their ex- 
quisite symmetry, delight with their rich and gor- 
geous plumage, and charm with their entrancing 
song. These "beautiful and well-created things" 
stimulate and purify the love of beauty which is such an essential element 
of every normal mind and soul, and a genuine delight must ever be felt in 
a study of their form, plumage, song and habits. In my native land socie- 
ties are formed expressly for such study, it being my esteemed privilege to 
have a membership in the one at our capital, and to continue its correspond- 
ent in the fair country of my adoption. In such favorable circumstances 
many things have been learned which could not otherwise have come with- 
in my knowledge. While the life of birds in their natural freedom has 
been a special theme of investigation, we have been led to give studious 
attention to their needs and care when in captivity, for, in spite of the ten- 
derest care, influences which are inseparable from a life of confinement will 
always induce some diseases not known among birds in their native fields 
and forests. As a result of such observation these disorders are treated di- 
rectly from experience in Germany, usually without the necessity of books; 

909 



910 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

but in America the little sufferers are too often left to linger and die in the 
absence of that experience, and of reliable books devoted to the subject. If 
I shall have the good fortune to allay the pain of those which are in and 
about the homes of my readers, it will abundantly repay me for my years 
of study in their behalf. What is offered in the present work is based upon 
the experience of many others as well as of myself, though a special study 
of American birds has been made since my arrival in this country, supple- 
mented by an extended practice in treating those which have been brought 
to the hospital. It has been a source of much pleasure to thus give to the 
public such aid as I confidently believe will be the means of avoiding many 
of the sufferings to which our hlepless little pets have been subjected, and 
my thanks are due to the editor for his valued assistance in reducing my 
language to the wants of the English reader. 

A few remarks are first in order upon the care and health of domesti- 
cated birds as a class, for nothing is so important in the treatment of a dis- 
ease as its prevention. Many ills can be avoided by a proper attention to 
the cage and other apartments, the food, drink, and general management. 

THE CAGE AND AVIARY. 

Size. — In this particular, as well as in others, it is best to keep a captive 
bird in a condition as nearly like its natui'al surroundings as practicable. If 
one can afford a spacious aviary, with suitable apartments, perches and other 
appointments, she may expect a more healthy condition and better results in 
plumage and song. But the majority are compelled to keep their birds in 
close confinement, or have none at all, and for such the first rule is that the 
cage shall be commodious enough to at least insure ease of movement. 

Cleanli?tess. — The temperature of the body of birds is much higher 
than that of man, and their respiration is proportionately more active. 
Because of these two facts the exhalations from the skin and lungs are 
thrown off with great rapidity and demand special pains to insure the 
requisite cleanliness. Again, by the flitting and hopping of the captive 
in small apartments the water and food are scattered about, and becoming 
mingled with the droppings, which have a marked tendency to ferment, 
they soon produce a foul condition which is highly prejudicial to health. 
It is, therefore, imperative that the cage be cleaned at least once a week in 
all seasons, and still oftener in warm weather. To be sure, the desired 
neatness can be secured only by doing this daily. Indeed, the safe 
rule, from a standpoint of health, is to attend to the cage or aviary at 
once if it gives out an odor that indicates an unwholesome habitation. In 
doing this the apartment should not be left in a drenched or very damp 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



911 



condition. The perches should receive special attention, and even the sand 
in the bottom of aviaries should be frequently removed and be replaced 
with a fresh supply. 

Uncleanliness is a prolific source of disorders in the feet, and these 
members should receive close attention. They will often become encrusted 




216. Nest of the Oriole. 



with the droppings and other matters and thus be irritated and sore. 
Hairs, fine feathers and tough straws become entwined about the toes, soon 
cut deep into them, and perhaps cause their total loss. In cleaning feet 
that have become thus involved, dip them into tepid water until the dirt is 



912 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

softened and comes off, so that the skin may not be torn away and thus 
induce painful and persistent ulcers. , 

Too much care can not be taken to keep out lice and mites, for they 
are very injurious to the health of birds. They suck the blood, rob them 
of sleep at nights, always rapidly reduce the strength, and sometimes cause 
death. They gather in great numbers on the perches, in all cracks, and in 
other parts of the cage or aviary. Studious cleanliness is the best pre- 
ventive. Measures for eradication, when they have once appeared, are 
named further on, under the special treatment for lice and mites. 

Light and Ventilation. — Light and air are two of nature's most 
potent agencies in counteracting filth. Every bird should have a liberal 
allowance of sunlight, though the power and directness of the rays are to 
be determined by the climate which is natural to the captive. Among 
those that need frequent sun-baths the canary deserves special mention, 
though it should never be subjected to extreme heat or a dazzling glare. 
For the development of the song, canaries are best kept in a very dark 
cage, made expressly for the purpose, except during the period of moulting 
and breeding; but this does not apply to the question of light for birds in 
general. If possible, every cage and other inclosure should be occasionally 
subjected to the full glare of the sun, the birds being meanwhile removed 
if their natural condition indicates that such exposure would be harmful. 
Both in airing and in ordinary ventilation it is imperatively essential that 
one avoid all direct draughts of cold or damp air on the birds, for they 
will take cold as well as a human being. The last remark is not suffi- 
ciently heeded by the ordinary fancier, and she consequently has sickly or 
dead birds. A good rule is to keep the temperature at from 6$° to 70° 
Fahrenheit, with an absence of draughts. 

The Bath and Drink. — A bath should be afforded daily in some 
suitable dish or font, but on cold days and in the winter the water should 
be milk-warm, and the bath may be omitted entirely in extreme cold 
weather. The best drink, since it is that which is provided for all birds in 
their native state, is cool, fresh water in summer, milk-warm in winter. 
Special pains is requisite in supplying it, because it will become stagnant 
by standing and is liable to be impregnated with all impurities that 
come from the body or surrounding atmosphere. Even fresh rain-water 
may be injuriously impure by standing in the open air twenty-four hours. 
It is, therefore, necessary that a supply be given at least once a day. If 
there is any doubt in respect to absolute purity, it is best to boil the water 
and give it after it has become cool. 

Food. — The food, drink and air furnish the materials by which the 
repair and growth of the system are effected, and upon their selection must 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



913 



depend the health of the body. Two peculiarities in the anatomy and 
physiology of birds need special mention here, as bearing directly upon the 
topic now before us. First, the lungs are very small, but the bones are pro- 
vided with various air-cells which may be filled or emptied at will to regu- 
late the buoyancy needed for flying. If the food is of such a nature as to 
interfere with this function, it is evident that the general health will be 
disturbed and the facility of flight be impaired. Second, the digestive or- 
gans exhibit differences according to the various kinds of food which the 
Creator designed for them. In song-birds, for example, there are three 
successive cartilaginous stomachs, covered with strong muscles. Indeed, 







217. Canaries and Nest. 



organs of this kind are given to all birds which live on grains, seeds and 
other hard food, and the requisite grinding is effected by small stones taken 
into the gizzard. This also emphasizes the necessity of giving to every 
bird the kind of food which it would get in a state of nature. 

It is manifest that the only rational principle for adoption in feeding is 

to accord to a bird a diet as nearly identical as possible with what nature 

has especially provided for it. Since this natural method cannot be used 

for birds in confinement in all its details, one must meet the lack of nature's 

58 



914: COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

food, as far as he can, by close observation of the effects of different arti- 
cles that are at hand. To this difficult question the members of our bird 
societies patiently address themselves. It is evident that, to give any trust- 
worthy directions upon feeding, one must divide his subject according to 
the species. Nothing is the cause of more sickness and death among birds 
than giving them any and every article of food simply because they seem to 
relish it, or at least take it readily. 

Gravel, Cuttle-Bone and Salt. — Every cage should be supplied with 
small gravel, and the best kind is that which may be scraped up along the 
lakes and rivers. Fine sand is not a good substitute. Without such a pro- 
vision the digestion is disturbed or entirely interrupted. Again, cuttle-bone 
and crystal salt should be kept within reach, since they afford needed ma- 
terial for the making of blood and bone. A bird may live even years with- 
out them, but it should have the opportunity of getting them as the svstem 
demands. This remark is not intended to lead to a disregard of the caution 
which fanciers emphasize about putting salt into the food of certain species. 

Macena Biscuit. — As a substitute for the egg-foods which are so ex- 
tensively used, the writer has an article of his own discovery which he 
calls the Macena Biscuit, and which, for canaries, mocking-birds, thrushes, 
parrots and other species, he has found to be much superior. It is men- 
tioned here as an additional food, and not as a necessarv part of the follow- 
ing points on feeding and treating. It insures rhythm and flexibility of 
the voice, is the most digestible for both the old and young, and is thus 
suited to all cases of debility in particular. It is an admirable remedy and 
preventive for inflammation of the bowels, and also saves much time and 
trouble in the breeding season. The birds always have a keen relish for it, 
showing a marked preference to it over egg-food, and feed it to the young 
with greater readiness. It is good for old birds in all seasons, is peculiarly 
suitable at breeding times, and the writer has found nothing equal to it for 
the voung of all kinds, canaries in particular, up to the age of four or five 
months, as well as in moulting. It will remain in a fit state for food eight 
to ten days in summer and ten to twelve days in winter. When it does be- 
come old, it is readily prepared for use by dipping it in water for three min- 
utes and then squeezing it out. None of the foods for mocking-birds 
which are sold in the market are made after the formula of this biscuit, and 
none keep the song and health in as good condition or favor so long life. 

SPECIAL FOODS FOR DIFFERENT SPECIES. 

Canaries. — The canary should not be fed on hemp seed under any 
circumstances. Even when these seeds are mixed with the canarv, as thev 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



915 



often are in the market, they are to be avoided, since they will shorten the 
bird's life. Up to the age of four months, rape and canary seed are the 
best, with three-fourths of a teaspoonful a day, to each bird, of egg-food, or, 
still better, Macena Biscuit. After that age they should have only rape 
and canary seed, with a small quantity of green food every day, if it can 
be secured. The German rape seed is the best, and if it can be procured, 
will be all that is needed in the way of seed. Canaries are very often in- 
jured or killed by sugar and other delicacies. 

The Mocking- Bird and Thrush Family. — All kinds of soft-food 
eaters must be treated with more care than seed-eaters. In this class 
mocking-birds are the most admired and valued. They need a liberal sup- 




2lS. MOCKING-BIRD. 



ply of meal-worms, ant's eggs, earth-worms, caterpillars (without hairs), 
and sometimes green food, such as berries and fruits. Grated carrots and 
potatoes, meat, and boiled beef-heart are suitable for summer. For use in 
winter, and for those people who can not get the articles just named, I will 
give a recipe upon which a superior mocking-bird food can be prepared, 
which is also excellent for all soft-food, meat and insect eaters: — Chop 
finely four pounds of beef and dry it well in a stove; grate one and one- 



916 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



half pounds of carrots, squeeze them out thoroughly, and dry them; grate 
twelve to fourteen ounces of white bread ; grind twelve to fourteen pounds 
of hemp seed; add the yolks of twelve to fifteen hard-boiled eggs. Mix 
all of them thoroughly, adding sweet oil or lard until the mixture is soft, 
but do not put in a greater supply of oil or lard, lest fat be engendered too 
rapidly. If they can be afforded, dried ant's eggs, in any quantity up to a 
fourth part of the whole, will make the mixture better. If farina be added 
to this mixture, in the proportion of one-fourth of the whole, good results 
will follow, though it is not a necessary ingredient. The preparation of 
this food will make some trouble, but it will well reward the pains in the 
charms which it adds to the mocking-bird alone, to say nothing of other 
species for which it is suitable. When once ready for use it can be fed 
with much less labor than fresh food, is not conducive to disease, as other 
kinds are, and will remain good for many months. A less amount than 
the above can be made, of course, but the same proportion of ingredients 
should be preserved. 

Red Bird, Cardinal and their Kind. — Make a mixture of rice (in the 
husk), hemp seed, sunflower seed, and wheat in the grain. Also, give corn, 
some fruit, meal-worms, and mocking-bird food made as above directed. 




Goldfinch and Nest. 



Nightingale, Robin, Etc. — For nightingales, robins, some African 
finches and titmice, make a mixture as follows: — Bake a loaf of white bread 
very hard and grind or pound it fine; add the same quantity of grated 
carrots; a like amount of hard-boiled beef heart, ground, chopped, or, better 
still, grated; a smaller allowance of hemp seed. Thoroughly mix them, 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 917 

meanwhile adding water until the whole is loose and has a joleasant odor. 
It is very desirable to mix ant's eggs in this when feeding it. 

Lark, Starling, Etc. — To larks, starlings, and the yellow-hammer 
species, give wheat, oats, canary seed, green food, some earth-worms, meal- 
worms and ant's eggs. Finely-chopped cabbage, mixed with poppy seed, is 
especially needed by all of the lark species; and the diet given just above for 
nightingales and robins is, generally speaking, also good. 

The Bullfinch and Linnet Families. — For bullfinches, linnets, chaf- 
finches, goldfinches, siskins, and all of the finch species, make a mixture of 
three parts of German rape seed, and one each of hemp seed, poppy seed 
and German millet. Hemp and poppy seed should be given with care, for 
they produce fat too readily when supplied in excess. Beside the above, 
give green food and fruits. 

Taney and African Finches. — The chief food of these is white (not 
yellow) millet and canary seed; other articles being rape, flax and poppy 
seed, and a little green food. 

Fancy Chickens. — For these, make a mixed food of fruit, crumbs of 
bread, rice (boiled dry), yolks and shells of eggs, meats and other articles 
from the table, and ant's eggs. Now and then give strawberries, black- 
berries, huckleberries, grapes and plums. 

Parrots. — Large parrots with strong beaks should have corn, oats, 
hemp seed, sunflower seed, millet, boiled rice, milk, bread, ant's eggs, pota- 
toes, nuts, grapes, fruits, and small seeds in general. Salt in bits or crystals 
should be constantly within reach. Bitter almonds and parsley are poison- 
ous for these birds. It may be said, apart from the question of food, that 
care should be taken to particularly avoid draughts of air and direct rays of 
the sun. The bird should have a daily bath, or the whole body be sprinkled 
with water. A piece of wood for the parrot to bite is requisite to the proper 
growth of the beak, and should always be kept in the cage. 

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

From foregoing observations it will be inferred that the most common 
causes of sickness in cage birds are unnatural, improper and excessive food 
and drink, exposure to draughts and extremes of temperature, filth, and 
vermin. It follows that an avoidance of such influences will prevent the 
occurrence of many ills. In general, when a bird shows any evidence of 
sickness, the appropriate diet, as detailed above, should be rigidly observed. 
In the reader's endeavor to discover what disease is affecting a bird, too 
much care can not be used to avoid an error which is entirely too common, 
namely, the forming of a conclusion upon an insufficient study of the patient's 



918 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

symptoms. The inexperienced fancier is prone to suspect the existence of 
a disease, and then quickly decide that it is present in a given case, because 
he finds one or two symptoms which are known to attend it, though a fur- 
ther investigation might detect others which would show that another and 
perhaps quite different complaint was at hand. 

HOARSENESS.— COLD.— CATARRH.— "ASTHMA." 

Hoarseness, or cold in the head, quite frequently manifests itself in 
song birds, and only less so in talking birds. It arises from draughts, 
too cold drink and baths, bad seed, and excessive singing or talking. When 
the first two are the cause, keep the bird in a warm, very moist atmosphere, 
both day and night, deprive it of the bath, give warmer water for the drink, 
and feed lettuce seed. If bad or spoiled seed be the source of the trouble, 
change to those which are good. If too much singing or talking is the 
cause, put the bird in a dark room to shut out all light, and thus stop the use 
of the voice entirely for some time; but the bird must be kept warm. 

Catarrh is often caused by draughts of air and too cold baths. The 
head becomes hot, the nostrils clogged, and the breathing obstructed. If a 
soft feather be dipped into warm salt-water and gently passed up the nostril, 
the bird being kept warm for some time, it will be a sufficient treatment. 
Parrots and other birds that will bite should be covered with some fabric be- 
fore treatment, to protect the operator and prevent resistance from the claws. 

Asthma is a term that is often improperly applied to cases of cold and 
catarrh. Birds do not have anything that can in any true sense be called 
asthma. The chest is sometimes by nature too narrow, and thus gives rise 
to a condition of the voice which some call asthma, but that is incurable. 

CONSUMPTION OF THE THROAT AND CHEST. 

The special symptoms of consumption of the throat are a frequent 
cough, roughness of the voice, often a failure to take food, either from loss 
of appetite or from pain in swallowing, attacks of fever followed by shiver- 
ing being more or less regular. As treatment, keep the bird in a very 
warm atmosphere, give a little piece of pork and a tea of speedwell (weak 
for small singing birds; strong for parrots, the thrush family, and large 
birds in general). This will usually effect a cure in four or five days. 
If the disease is allowed to run four or five months it will be incurable ; 
hence the importance of early attention and prompt treatment. 

The distinctive feature of consumption of the chest or lungs is a 
tubercular deposit in the chest, liver and bowels; The first symptoms are 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



919 



a " thinning " of the voice and occasional sneezing. When the sneezing 
comes on in the morning and continues during the day, the lungs have 
become involved, and eventually a puffed appearance will be manifest in 
the chest, as represented in the accompanying cut. The treatment consists 




220. Canary with Consumption of the Chest. 

in keeping the atmosphere very moist, and at a temperature of from 66° 
to 72 ° Fahrenheit (for which purpose a stove with fire can be placed in the 
room with a vessel of water on it). When the coughing or sneezing be- 
comes continuous, the disease has progressed too far for treatment. A con- 
sumptive bird should never be used for breeding purposes. 

WORMS IN THE WINDPIPE. 



Many birds are killed by worms in the windpipe when their owners 
are at a complete loss as to the cause. A very destructive parasite finds its 
way to the throat, locates under the glottis and lives on the blood that it 
extracts. The wound which it makes begins to swell, and the bird is thus 
deprived of breath. Parrots, fancy chickens and singing birds are especially 
liable to such attacks. At first the bird shows signs of general impairment 
of health; a cough sets in and grows worse; the bird throws its head 
from side to side as if trying to expel something from the throat; finally 



920 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

death ensues from suffocation if relief is not given. A bird affected in this 
way should be completely separated from others, for the parasite is readily 
transmitted to the well. The killing of the worm is the only cure, and 
recovery rapidly comes on when this is accomplished. The best method 
of treatment is to put the bird into dense tobacco smoke, and give meal- 
worms that have been dipped in sweet oil. Care is requisite to avoid suffo- 
cation by the smoke, particularly if it is applied long at a time. 

VERTIGO OR DIZZINESS.— EPILEPSY. 

Vertigo or dizziness must not be mistaken for epilepsy which is con- 
sidered just below. The former attacks large birds which are kept in 
round and incommodious cages. The bird will turn its head around at 
times and so continue until it falls from the perch and lies as if dead. Pro- 
vide a larger and square cage. If this does not effect a cure, probably 
nothing will. Covering the top of the cage with a cloth may afford tem- 
porary relief, for it keeps the bird from looking up, which is commonly 
supposed to be the cause of the disorder; but it will not alone eradicate the 
malady, which is an affection of the nervous system that is primarily due 
to the kind of cage mentioned. . 

Epilepsy is produced in nervous and fat birds by violent shocks, as 
from a fright or loud noise, which causes them to fall in a sudden fit. 
Pour cold water on the head until the bird revives; then let it fly for 
some time in a room. Provide more commodious cages for fat, large birds 
when they have recovered, give less food than before, and guard against 
shocks of all kinds, as slamming of doors, explosions, and the like. 

LIVER-SPOTS. 

This term is applied to an inflammation of the liver the chief external 
symptom of which is violet spots under the breast. The bird eats but 
little, owing to pressure on the stomach. It is a good rule to give the sick 
bird the food it relishes, except such as tends to produce fat. Seed-eaters 
should have less rape and no hemp. Mix flax and poppy seed in the food. 
Thrushes and their species require poppy seed. To parrots give no hemp 
or meat; half-boiled corn is good for them. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 

This is a frequent complaint in warm weather, and is caused by an un- 
due supply of heating or stimulating food, fruits, lettuce and other green 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 921 

feed in excess, and sour, soft food. The disease is very rapid in its course. 
During the first two days the droppings are green, and afterward become 
mixed with blood, death soon taking place if relief is not afforded. The 
bird is very thirsty during the attack. Parrots, canaries, and mocking- 
birds are particularly subject to the disorder. The patient should be kept 
warm, and oatmeal-tea (but no water) be given as a drink. From the 
diet exclude fruits, egg-food, lettuce and other green feed, giving only seed 
or grain, according to the natural demand of the bird. Meat-eaters must 
have an abundance of meal-worms and ant's eggs, but no sour or spoiled 
food. Studiously avoid such of the mocking-bird foods in the market as 
can become sour. That made upon the formula given on a previous page 
will not sour, if carefully prepared, and is a good food in this complaint 
for such birds as those for which it is there recommended. 

RUPTURE. 

Young birds are more often than the old affected with a disorder 
called rupture, which is characterized by a lean, transparent, puffed-up ap- 
pearance of flesh, with small, red veins, and a falling of the intestines into 
the lower part of the belly, where the skin becomes black before or after 
death. Though the malady is generally fatal, because not treated soon 
enough, relief may be afforded by giving a light and simple diet, since too 
heating and stimulating food is the most common cause, egg-food being 
quite often the origin of the trouble. This is generally, if not always, a 
manifestation of inflammation of the bowels and demands substantially the 
same treatment. Attend to it as soon as it manifests itself. 

COSTIVENESS, DIARRHCEA AND DYSENTERY. 

Costiveness. — When the action of the bowels is stopped or difficult, 
mild cases may be cured by giving green food freely, and substituting the 
juice of yellow carrots for the drink. The bath should be taken away. In 
obstinate cases, give one to two drops of castor oil, either directly into the 
throat from a quill or pen, or in the food. It is well, sometimes necessary, 
to dip a fine, soft brush or feather into oil and very carefully push it into 
the bowel through the vent. 

Diarrhcea and Dysentery. — These can generally be cured by 
feeding poppy seed, which should be half-boiled for parrots and thrushes. 
In the worst cases, particularly if blood is mixed in the droppings, give one 
or two drops of tincture of opium in the drink. Colds and an unwise selec- 
tion of food are the chief causes. 



922 COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 

OBSTRUCTION OF THE RUMP-GLAND. 

The rump-gland secretes the oil for the anointing of the feathers. It 
may be doubted whether it ever suffers any disorder other than the itching 
which results from its obstruction in constipation, and which causes the 
bird to peck and rub it with the beak more than it does when merely oil- 
ing its feathers. If cases of obstruction occur, soften the gland well with 
tepid water and squeeze it out, but do it very gently, since carelessness or 
rudeness may kill the bird, and will certainly irritate the gland. 

SORES ON THE FEET AND EYES. 

If ulcers appear on the feet from dirt sticking to them, thoroughly 
soften the feet with tepid water until the dirt comes off. Then put twelve 
to fifteen drops of strong tincture of arnica into a glass of water and apply 
some of it two or three times a day with a feather. Stronger dilutions of 
arnica may be used on larger birds. Clean cages and proper food are efficient 
preventives. 

The eyes may become sore from filth in the cage, and need the same 
treatment as is given for sores on the feet. The juice of red beets is 
recommended, both as a drink and as an external application. 

LOSS AND EXCESS OF FLESH. 

The use of unnatural food deranges the digestion and causes the bird 
to disgorge its food, ruffle its feathers, and rapidly lose flesh. Restore the 
required food and tone up the system by putting a rusty nail in the drink- 
ing-water for a few days. 

A bird may become fat if it has too much or too stimulating food. The 
treatment consists in resorting to a simpler diet, including small quanti- 
ties of ant's eggs, and avoiding the fat-producing articles. A mistaken 
fondness too often prompts one to pamper birds until they grow fat and 
dull, and thus indisposed to song and vivacity. 

PAIRING FEVER. 

By this is meant a condition in the spring, when the inclination to pair 
is the most marked, in which a bird ceases to sing, is drooping in spirits, 
grows thin, ruffles its feathers, and possibly dies. Remove the female from 
sight and put the male in a cooler place. The normal spirits and health 
will soon return, and no additional care will be needed. 



CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



FLEDGING AND MOULTING. 



Though the growth of the first coat of feathers and the periodic 
change thereafter are natural functions, they produce a debility which ren- 
ders a bird peculiarly susceptible to disease. These changes make a special 
demand on the digestive organs, and an increased allowance of food should 
be afforded, though without any delicacies. A rusty nail in the drinking- 
water will be a useful tonic. Meat-eaters need more worms and ant's eggs 
than usual. The Macena Biscuit is superior as food during these periods 
for those birds for which it has been recommended above. Keep the bird 
in a rather warmer atmosphere than usual as a precaution against colds, 
and insure rest and quiet, being especially careful not to excite the bird. 

LICE.— MITES PARASITES. 

When a bird is restless, particularly at night, and repeatedly puts its 
beak under its wings and on other parts, the presence of lice or mites 
should be suspected, and a minute search be made at once. If they are 
found, blow pure Persian Insect Powder thoroughly into the feathers, in 
small quantities, and into all corners and cracks of the cage. Clean the 
cage very carefully and anoint all parts of it with kerosene oil, before using 
the powder. It is best to furnish a new cage after the eradication, until 
the infested one is surely free from all traces of the pests. Absolute clean- 
liness is, of course, one of the surest preventives. Both before and after 
the appearance of lice or other vermin, a supply of sand for dusting and 
abundant opportunities for bathing are very beneficial. When a cage is in- 
fested with red mites, temporary relief can be afforded the bird by spread- 
ing a white cloth over the cage at night and removing it after a while. If 
mites are present, they will collect on the cloth and will be seen as minute 
red spots. Of course they should be destroyed when removed in this way. 
This is, indeed, a good expedient to discover their presence. 

DEFORMED CLAWS AND BEAKS.— INJURIES. 

If the perches are so small that the bird can reach more than three- 
fourths of the way around them, the whetting on the points of the claws 
required by nature is not afforded, and they become too long and deformed. 
The best treatment is to remove the cause by providing thicker perches. 
If the claws are so long as to present a deformity, hold them up between 
your eyes and a light, so that you can see the ends of the blood-vessels; 
then clip them off near those ends, using scissors^ not a knife. If bleeding 



924 



COMPENDIUM OF HEALTH. 



should follow, rub on a few drops of arnica. This kind of deformity 
should not be neglected, for the bird is in danger of hanging itself by the 
feet and thus dying. 

The beak may be overgrown in consequence of the bird's inability to 
whet it. It is treated by cutting it off, with the same instrument and with 
the same caution in avoiding the blood-vessels as are named in clipping the 
claws. It is best to have an experienced person perform these operations. 

When a bird suffers from a wound, fracture of a bone, frost-bites, or 
other injury, the precision required in treatment is such that no suitable di- 
rections can here be given. It is a great mistake to kill a pet bird because 
it has a broken bone, for it can be successfully treated at one of the bird 
hospitals which are found in some of the larger cities; but no time should 
be lost in sending it to such a place, if it is to be sent at all. If any parts 
have been nipped by the frost, put on a few applications of a weak dilution 
of arnica, followed by an anointing with oil. 




ieiisj-d of jp^jr/t ix. 




MATERIA MEDICA. 




fW/HE remedies mentioned in this work are now to be considered with 
reference to their form, strength and mode of administration, a 



few being omitted because the requisite particulars have been 
given as they have been prescribed. For two reasons the size and 
frequency of the dose have generally not been described in the treatment 
of the diseases: First, the popular names of medicines are often mis- 
leading and many people, prone to administer a remedy which, in their 
experience, passes under a given name that happens to be the same 
as the one recommended in a medical book, ofttimes commit great errors; 
but, if they must look elsewhere to ascertain the dose, as they must 
in this book, they will also learn just what remedy is intended by the 
name that is found in the treatment. Second, the virulence of the symp- 
toms and the age, constitution and strength of the patient will differ so 
much that it has been deemed best to leave the size and frequency of the 
dose to the judgment of the reader, after giving the general directions em- 
bodied below under " Dose." 

Choice of the Remedy. — The reader will sometimes be in doubt 
which of the remedies prescribed for a given disease he should adopt. For 
obvious reasons that question cannot be here answered in detail. The 
reader must depend upon his observation — as the physician does. Let him 
study the case carefully, comparing the symptoms noted for each remedy, 
and choose that one whose symptoms the most nearly correspond to those 
of the patient. Rarely will a patient show all the symptoms which are 
mentioned as calling for a given remedy ; nor will he often present the 
symptoms that call for one remedy without showing some which indicate 
another remedy. Watch the ease closely so as to determine when it has 
become so modified as to need a change of medicine. 

Forms of Remedies. — Tinctures. — A tincture is an extract obtained 
by subjecting a drug to the action of strong or dilute alcohol, or whiskey, 
and is a fluid in form. 

925 



926 MATERIA ME DIC A. 

Dilutions, — A dilution is made of a given part of a tincture to stated 
parts of alcohol or water. The first dilution, for example, is composed of 
one part of the tincture to ten of alcohol or water; the second, of one part 
to one hundred, etc. Dilutions and triturations are both thus compounded 
on the decimal scale, and in this form are found at the apothecaries, being 
by the latter marked ix, 2x, 3X, etc. The subjoined illustrations will be of 
service in using medicines. 

1st dilution (ix), 1 part of tincture to 10 of alcohol or water. 

2d " (2x), 1 " " 100 " " 

3d " (3x), 1 " " 1,000 " u 

4th " (4X), 1 " " io,oco " " 

Etc., etc., etc. 

It will be seen that there is a wide difference between one dilution and 
another in the amount of the drug involved. Though in some cases it may 
make no material difference in the effect whether the first or second is 
used, in others it is absolutely essential to give that which is recommended, 
particularly in using very powerful or very poisonous drugs which are to 
be administered in the high dilutions. 

Triturations. — A trituration contains a given part of the drug ground 
with stated parts of sugar-of-milk, being obviously in the form of a pow- 
der. The first trituration contains one part of the drug to ten of sugar-of- 
milk; the second, one part to one hundred, etc. The characters " ix," 
« 2x," etc., are used to distinguish them. Observe the same cautions about 
using the particular trituration prescribed as were given above for Dilutions. 

Decoct io?is and Iiifusions. — A decoction is made by boiling the medici- 
nal substance in water; an infusion^ by pouring boiling water upon it and 
allowing it to cool. 

Solutions. — These are made by dissolving the medicinal substance in 
some liquid, as alcohol or water. A " saturated solution " is alcohol con- 
taining as much of a substance as it will hold in solution. 

Zsotions or Washes. — These are mixtures of medicinal agents and 
water, for local use. Formulas are given in another place. 

Cerates. — A cerate is a compound of a drug with oil or oily sub- 
stances, and formulas for the same, with the uses, are elsewhere given. 

Ointnients. — These are similar to cerates, and their formulas are given 
hereafter. 

Dose, Size and Frequency. — Size. — The age, habits, strength and 
temperament of the patient, the nature and virulence of the disease, and 
the like, must be considered in determining the size of the dose. Again, 
different doctors will use widely differing doses. The amounts mentioned 
in the succeeding pages give a wide range to satisfy these differing condi- 



MATERIA MEDICA. 927 

tions, but the authors advise the reader to use the small or medium dose as 
being the safest, and generally the most efficacious. In many instances the 
dose is included when a remedy is prescribed in the body of this work, 
and then that is to be used, for an adult. The popular saying that, " if 
one drop is good, two must be better," must be condemned as most foolish 
and harmful. It is always better to give too little medicine than too 
much. The doses mentioned in the following pages are designed for an 
adult, man or woman. The subjoined table will enable one to determine 
what is suitable for children and the domestic animals. 



For a child 3 months old 


¥ ^ of the dose 


for 


an adult 


6 


" 


A 


u 


" 


a 


" 1 year 


" 


rV 


" 


« 


u 


" 2 years 


" 


% 


" 


u 


" 


3 " 


u 


l /6 


" 


u 


u 


4 « 


" 


l A 


" 


" 


« 


t< A c< 


" 


X 


" 


(( 


a 


14 « 


" 


Vz 


(( 


" 


" 



For a Horse full-grown, 3 times the dose for a Man. 
" 3 years old, 2 " " " 

2 « iy 2 " 

" 1 year old, usual dose " " 

" 6 months old, % " " " 

For an Ass full-grown, 2 to 3 times the dose for a Man. 

" 1 year old, usual dose for a Man. 

" 6 months old % " " 

For a Mule, same as for an Ass. 

For an Ox full-grown, 3 to 4 times the dose for a Man. 
" 1 year old, 1 to 2 " " " 

" 6 months old, usual dose for a Man. 

For a Sheep full-grown, the dose for a Man. 

" 6 months old, y 2 the dose for a Man. 

3 Yi 

For a Goat, rather more than for a Sheep. 

For a Hog full-grown, the dose for a Man. 
" 6 months old, % " " 

"3 " X " " 

For a Dog full-grown, the dose for a Man, less for small breeds. 
' ' 6 months old, y 2 the dose for a Man. 

3 Z3 

Doses for Cats, Poultry and Birds are given with the treatment. 

One will sometimes be obliged to divide a grain, drop, drachm, etc., in 
using the above tables, and this can be done by putting the medicine in 
water or some kind of harmless triturated solid, thoroughly mixing, and 
dividing into the required amounts. In this way even a grain can be 
divided as many times as one can wish. 



928 MATERIA MEDICA. 

It will often be necessary to use some rough equivalents for drachms, 
ounces, etc., and the following will generally be exact enough, except for 
very powerful or very poisonous drugs^ whose measurement or weight, 
if they are required at all, must be left to the apothecary. 

LIQUID MEASURE FOR THE HOME. 

i teaspoonful=6o drops. 

1 fluid drachm, or V% ounce=i teaspoonful. 
i tablespoonful=4 teaspoonful s. 

4 fluid drachms, or y 2 ounce=i table spoonful. 

2 fluid ounces=i wineglassful. 
6 " " =i teacupful. 

16 " " =i pint. 

The above table applies to fluids of the consistence of water. Laud- 
anum and other tinctures and alcohols are thinner, and hence it will take 
more drops for a given bulk. Oils, on the other hand, are thicker, and a 
given number of drops or a given bulk will weigh much more than is here 
indicated, and this is likewise true of syrups. 

DRY MEASURE FOR THE HOME. 

i teaspoonful =6o grains, or i drachm, 
i tablespoonful=4 drachms, or y 2 ounce. 
2 tabltspoonfuls=i ounce. 

The following apothecaries' tables will be of convenient reference 
when one is to divide a given amount of medicine into doses. 

apothecaries' dry measure. 

2ograins=i scruple. 

3 scruples = i drachm. 

S drachms=i ounce. 
12 ounces=i pound. 

apothecaries' fluid measure. 

6o minims, or drops=i fluid drachm. 

S fluid drachms=i fluid ounce. 
16 ounces=i pint. 

2 pints=i quart. 

Freque7icy. — The activity of the disease, the violence of the symp- 
toms and effects produced by a medicine must be considered in fixing the 
frequency of the dose. In violent, rapid and dangerous complaints, as 
cholera, croup, convulsions, diphtheria, oncoming fever, and other acute dis- 
orders, the remedies may be repeated from every ten minutes to every 
hour or two, the intervals being lengthened as the symptoms abate. In 
chronic cases, when a remedy is to be continued a long time, one, two or 
three doses a day will be suitable; but in these it is best to change the 



MATERIA MEDICA. ( J29 

remedies so that a particular one will not be given more than ten days or 
two weeks at one time. 

Alternation of Remedies. — When one is told, for example, to give 
two remedies " in alternation every hour," each is to be used every two 
hours, a dose of the other being given at the intervening hour, so that the 
patient gets medicine every hour; if they are to be given " in alternation 
every two hours," the patient gets medicine every two hours, each kind be- 
ing taken every four hours. It will obviously be difficult to ascertain the 
separate effects of a particular remedy when thus alternated, and it is there- 
fore a good rule not to resort to this method if one can without it be 
reasonably certain what course to pursue. 

Medicine Chest. — Those who wish to fill a chest or case for family 
use will be assisted in their selection by the following list of remedies 
which are oftenest used (those in most frequent demand being marked with 
an asterisk, and the signs "ix" " 2x," etc., being explained above) : — 
^Aconite, 2x; *Antimonium Tartaricum, 2x; ^Arsenicum Album, 3x5 
Baptisia, tincture; *Belladonna, 2x; Bromide of Camphor, ix; Calcarea 
Carbonica, 3x5 *Cantharis, 2x; *Chamomilla, 2x; China, ix; Cimicifuga, 
tincture; *Colocynth, 3x5 *Gelseminum, 2x; Hepar Sulphuris, 3x5 Hydras- 
tia, tincture; Ignatia, 3x5 *Ipecac, ix; Iris Versicolor, 2x; *Kali Bichro- 
micum, 2x; Mercurius Corrosivus, 6x; Mercurius Iodide, 3x5 *Mercurius 
Solubilis, 3x5 *Nux Vomica, 3x5 ^Phosphorus, 3x5 *Podophyllin, 2x; 
Pulsatilla, 3x5 Rhus, 2x; Santonine, ix; Spongia, 2x; *Veratrum Al- 
bum, 3X. 

Some common and valuable remedies, as camphor, Pond's Extract, 
chlorate of potash and arnica, are so generally found in the household that 
they are not included above. One to two ounces each will be an appro- 
priate quantity. Medicines thus kept for the family are better preserved in 
a suitable case or chest, and, at any rate, the light and air should be ex- 
cluded. Colored glass bottles afford the best protection. The bottles 
should be kept corked and their corks never be exchanged. The medicines 
can be procured at any well-appointed drug-store, though it is important 
that one be sure that he gets them of a dealer who is known to keep first- 
class drugs. Those who are not in communication with such a reliable 
dealer can correspond with the publishers of this book, who will give the 
desired information, or secure the medicines or case. 

Articles in Frequent Demand. — Too many households are destitute 
of the common remedies and appliances which are in every-day demand, 
and thus inconvenience is imposed upon the family in ordinary emergen- 
cies, and upon the physician when he is called. Every family will have 
occasion to use all of the following, in making lotions, liniments, etc., and 
59 



930 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the most of them will be frequently needed: — Graduated glass, for the 
measurement of liquids; medicine dropper; atmospheric thermometer; 
clinical thermometer, to determine the temperature of the body; fountain 
syringe; hand ball syringe (3 ounce); adhesive plaster; oil-silk; lint or bat- 
ting; absorbent cotton; bandages (2 inches wide); camel's-hair brushes; 
linseed meal, for poultices; mustard, for an emetic; Pond's Extract; lime- 
water; lime-water and oil liniment (a quart), for burns; vaseline or cosmo- 
line; glycerine; olive or salad oil; tinctures of arnica and calendula; alco- 
hol; spirits of camphor; castor oil; ointment of zinc; bromide of potas- 
sium ; chlorate of potash. A large part of these should be at hand. 

REMEDIES. 

Acid. — See Carbolic, Gallic, Muriatic, Phosphoric, Sulphurous, etc. 

Acidum. — See Acid. 

Aconite (Aconitum Napellus, Monk's-hood). — A tincture derived from the roots or 
leaves ; an invaluable arterial sedative, useful in the commencement of all inflammatory 
disorders, especially acute fevers, pneumonia, pleurisy and rheumatism ; relieves more 
quickly than bleeding and is far less dangerous. Dose: Half-drop to two drops of the 
tincture every one to two hours; or, to avoid undue irritation, one to five drops of the first 
or second dilution. For external use, see Formulas. 

.ZEsculus (^Esculus Hippocastanum, Horse-Chestnut). — Useful for disorders of the 
liver, constipation with white lumpy stools, and piles. Dose: One to three drops of the 
tincture or of the first dilution. For local application, see Formulas. 

Agaricus (Poisonous Mushroom). — This acts on the nerve-centers and induces in- 
toxication similar to that of alcohol and opium ; chiefly used for delirium tremens, con- 
gestion of the brain, nervousness, and St. Vitus' dance. Dose: One to three drops of 
the tincture or the first dilution, in water. 

Ailanthus (Chinese Tree of Heaven). — This is especially useful in scarlet fever of 
a malignant, putrid or typhoidal character, in diphtheria, dysentery, malignant ulcerated 
sore throat, and like diseases. Dose: One to three drops of the tincture; or, better for 
family use, the same dose of the first dilution. 

Alcohol (Spirits of Wine). — Pure alcohol is used in making tinctures, and when 
the other ingredient is soluble in water the alcohol is diluted and preserves the prepara- 
tion. Various forms are used as stimulants, but great caution is requisite to avoid the 
forming of the alcohol-habit. Use it only on the advice of the physician. 

Aletris Farinosa (Mealy Star-wort). — One of the best tonics known in all cases of 
debility connected with diseases of the organs of generation, all uterine weaknesses, 
habitual miscarriage, impotence, sterility, and pale, scanty mensesi Dose: Five to ten 
drops three times a day. 

Ammonia, — See Ammonium Causttcum. 

Ammonium Carbonate (Salts of Ammonia). — Used as a stimulant in low conditions, as 
in typhoid, typhus and scarlet fevers. Dose: One to three grains every two or three 
hours. 

Ammonium Causticum (Ammonia, Aqua Ammonia, Hartshorn). — A powerful 
stimulant found in nearly every household ; used to revive one when fainting or other- 
wise in need of rapid stimulation. Never hold too close or too long to the nose, for the 



MATERIA MEDICA. 931 

gas is an active irritant, likely to do serious injury to the mucous membrane. Dose: 
One to three drops of the first or second dilution, or ten lo twenty drops of the aromatic 
spirits in water. For external use, see Formulas. 

Antimonium Crudum and Muriaticum. — See Antimonium Tartaricum. 

Antimonium Tartaricum (Tartar Emetic). — A powerful emetic in sufficient quanti- 
ties; is extensively used in the form of "hive-syrup" for cases of croup, but unwisely, 
for children have been dangerously prostrated thereby. It is very useful in pneumonia, 
catarrhal croup, bronchitis, and during the progress of small-pox. Dose: One to three 
grains, every one to three hours, of the second trituration. 

Apis (Apis Mellifica, Poison of the Honey-Bee). — Acts powerfully on the mucous 
tissues, the tongue, fauces, throat, kidneys and bladder; very efficacious in disorders at- 
tended with great swellings of the tonsils and fauces, in scarlet fever when the throat is 
painfully involved, and when the urine is scanty or suppressed, with irritation of the 
neck of the bladder. Dose: One to three drops of the first or second dilution of the 
tincture, or one to five grains of the first or second trituration, in water. 

Apocynum (Apocynum Cannabinum, Indian Hemp). — Do not confuse it with Canna- 
bis Indica, or hasheesh. Apocynum acts upon the urinary organs, and is one of the best 
remedies for ascites or dropsy in any form ; also used for menorrhagia and passive uterine 
hemorrhage. Dose: Five to ten drops of the tincture; or a teaspoonful of an infusion 
made of two ounces of the fresh root and a pint of boiling water. 

Arnica (Leopard's Bane). — Useful for internal injuries, certain forms of fever, rheu- 
matism, and for external sprains and bruises. Dose: One to three drops of the tincture, 
or of the first or second dilution, in water every one or two hours. For external use, 
see Formulas. 

Arsenic. — See Arsenicum. 

Arsenicum (Arsenicum Album, Arsenic, Arsenious Acid). — Extremely poisonous 
in a pure state, but a valuable remedy when sufficiently diluted ; has a very wide sphere 
of action, there being few disorders which do not call for it in some of their stages ; 
particularly adapted to low states of the system, exhausting diseases, profuse diarrhoea 
and vomiting with threatened collapse; intermittent fevers, certain conditions in typhoid 
fever, rheumatism, neuralgia, etc. Dose: Never to be used in domestic practice stronger 
than the third dilution or trituration, one to five drops of the dilution and one to three 
grains of, the trituration being suitable for the dose. This dose may be repeated at inter- 
vals, but caution is needed if it is continued for a considerable time. 

Arsenicum Iodide. — See Iodide of Arsenic. 

Asafoetida (Narthex Asafcetida). — The dried juice or gum is used ; a powerful stim- 
ulant and anti-spasmodic ; useful in the nervous disorders of females, hysteria, epilepsy, 
St. Vitus' dance, convulsions of children, and almost every variety of nerve-diseases. 
Dose: One to three grains, in the form of a pill. It is often used as an injection during 
spasms, one or two drachms being rubbed up with warm water into an emulsion. 

Baptisia (Indigo- weed). — A tincture; acts chiefly on the fluids of the body when 
decomposition is indicated, as in typhus, typhoid and other low fevers. When given 
early, it has aborted or broken up such disorders. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture 
every one, two or three hours. 

Baryta Carbonica (Carbonate of Baryta). — Used for enlargement of the tonsils, 
especially chronic cases, and for relaxed, easily-inflamed throat, with hoarseness. Dose: 
Two or three grains of the second trituration. 

Belladonna (Deadly Nightshade). — A tincture made from the stems, leaves and 
flowers ; extremely poisonous in large doses, but a household remedy in a diluted form ; 
acts principally on the brain and nervous system ; especially useful for delirium from 



932 MATERIA MEDICA. 

active congestion, congestive headache with flushed face and dilated pupils, convulsions, 
and sore throat; also serviceable in the prevention and treatment of scarlet fever; some 
forms of neuralgia, rheumatism and other painful disorders are relieved by it. Dose: 
One to ten drops of the first or second dilution of the tincture, or one-eighth of a grain 
of the extract — the latter, however, not being suitable for domestic prescription. For 
external uses, see Formulas. 

Bichromate of Potash. — See Kali Bicliromicum. 

Bin-iodide of Mercury. — See Mercury. 

Bismuth. — The sub-nitrate is most often used ; principally given for dyspepsia, 
vomiting, diarrhoea, chronic inflammation of the stomach, and other digestive troubles ; 
combined with pepsin, it is excellent for water-brash. Dose: Five to ten grains. For 
external use, see Formulas. 

Borax. — Acts on the mucous surfaces, and useful in sore mouth of nursing babes, 
thrush, and catarrhal affections of the stomach and bowels. Preparations: As a wash 
for the mouth, put ten to fifteen grains in four ounces of water; for catarrh of the bowels, 
this mav be given in teaspoonful-doses. A half-drachm to a pint of water makes a good 
lotion for cracked nipples, or an injection for the vagina. 

Bromide of Ammonia. — Valuable in many nervous disorders. Dose: Five to 
fifteen grains. . 

Bromide of Camphor. — Has no equal in the treatment of cholera-infantum, cholera 
morbus, infantile convulsions during teething, menstrual headache, and hysteria. The 
best form for family use is the first trituration. Dose: One to five grains of the trituration 
just described every half-hour to two hours. 

Bromide of Lithium. — Well suited to various nervous disorders. Dose: Three to 
ten grains. 

Bromide of Potassium (Potassa Bromide, Kali Bromidum). — For general purposes 
this is the best and the most used of all the bromides: yet much harm results from its 
indiscriminate or long-continued use, as it deteriorates the blood and disposes the system 
to sores and abscesses; useful in epilepsy, hysteria, delirium tremens, convulsions, whoop- 
ing-cough, headache, and sleeplessness; for epilepsy, it is better to combine two parts of 
it with one of bromide of ammonium. Dose: Five to thirty grains ; the latter (thirty 
grains) being suitable for delirium tremens, repeated at short intervals until the patient 
is quiet. 

Bromide of Sodium. — Serviceable in nervous disorders. Dose: Five to fifteen grains. 

Bromide of Zinc. — Dose: One-fourth to one grain. 

Bryonia (Bryony). — Suitable for acute and chronic rheumatism, lumbago, pleurisy, 
peritonitis, bronchitis, pueumonia, bilious remittent fever, certain conditions in typhoid 
fever, stitches in the chest, headache which is worse on motion, congestion of the liver 
with pain in the right shoulder. Dose: One to five drops of the second or third dilution 
will be best suited to family use. 

Cactus Grandiflorus (Night-blooming Cereus). — Acts on the circulation, especially 
the heart, and useful for palpitation from any cause, particularly when attended with a 
sense of constriction and cramp-like pains in the region of the heart. Dose: One to five 
drops of the first or second dilution, in water. 

Calcarea Carbonica (Carbonate of Lime). — Used for scrofula, rickety constitutions 
disposed to coughs, colds and diarrhoea, for slow teething in children, and for chronic 
eruptions. Dose: Three to five grains of the first or second trituration, or a teaspoonful 
of lime-water in milk. 

Calcarea Phosphorica (Phosphate of Lime). — For slow formation of bone in children, 
vomiting, diarrhoea, and cold states of the body. Dose: Same as Calcarea Carbonica. 



MATERIA MEDICA. 933 

Calendula (Marigold). — The tincture is made from the leaves and flowers, and is of 
great value as an application to wounds when the flesh is torn, to old ulcers, and to sup- 
purating sores. See Formulas. 

Camphor. — The tincture of camphor-gum is kept in nearly every house, but is not 
used with the caution which is demanded in view of its poisonous effects in large doses ; 
is useful in colds, colic, the first stages, of catarrh, in cholera, vomiting, diarrhoea, sun- 
stroke, and cases, in general, which are preceded by chills, and those attended with cold 
sweats, yawning and fainting; may be given by inhalation, as in fainting and sunstroke, 
or be taken internally on sugar. Dose: One to five drops; in cholera, five to twenty 
drops every five to thirty minutes until reaction sets in. For external use, see Formulas. 

Cantharis (Spanish or Blistering Fly). — Principally used internally for urinary dis- 
orders and skin diseases; externally, as a counter-irritant and to produce blisters; very 
valuable in acute inflammation of the kidneys, bladder and urethra; is indicated by fre- 
quent urging to urinate, with scanty, high-colored urine, and sometimes albuminous dis- 
charges; also in suppression of urine from acute inflammation. Dose: Put five or ten 
drops of the tincture in four ounces of water and give a teaspoonful at a dose. For ex- 
ternal use, see Formulas. 

Carbo Vegetabilis (Charcoal). — Obtained by burning wood in a close vessel; is tritu- 
rated and used in many ways, chiefly for chronic disorders of the stomach with flatulence, 
foul belching and discharges ; also as an application to ulcers and all surfaces exuding an 
offensive discharge. It may be triturated with sugar-of-milk and be taken in the form of 
tablets or in finely-ground powder. The powder is also sprinkled over sores. For poison- 
ing by arsenic it should be freely given in milk or water. Keep it dry and away from 
the air. 

Carbolic Acid. — Obtained from coal-tar, in color and taste resembling creosote ; when 
pure, it is in the form of crystals, but is reduced to a solution when exposed to heat, and 
may be held in solution by the addition of a few drops of glycerine; is a violent poiso7i, not 
fit to be kept about the house except in a diluted form, and then to be studiously kept out 
of reach of children. It is an excellent application for wounds, old sores and skin diseases, 
and for such use one part of the pure acid to one hundred parts of water or vaseline will 
be suitable. It is also taken internally to stop vomiting. Dose: A teaspoonful of a dilu- 
tion composed of two drops of the acid and two ounces of water is suitable for internal use. 

Caulophy Hum (Blue Cohosh). — Chiefly used for menstrual disorders, especially when 
the flow is scanty and attended with cramps and spasmodic pains, and for irregular and 
deficient pains in labor; also for rheumatism of the joints. Dose: Five to twenty drops 
of the tincture, the latter dose being given every half-hour to one hour to regulate the 
pains of labor. 

Causticum. — Useful for cough, with loss of voice and relaxation of the vocal cords, 
and for relaxation of the neck of the bladder. Dose: One to five drops of the first or 
second dilution. 

Chamomilla (Chamomile Flowers). — In some form, this is one of the most popular 
of domestic medicines; it acts upon the nervous and digestive systems, there being few 
disorders of the stomach and bowels of children, especially during teething, which are not 
relieved by it; it is of great service in convulsions, restlessness, and fretfulness. Dose: 
One to five drops of the tincture. A tea made from the flowers is also suitable for use. 

China (Tincture of Cinchona). — Used as a tonic when the system has been exhausted 
by a loss of fluids, diarrhoea, or a too profuse menstrual flow. Dose: Five to thirty drops 
of the tincture ; or put a teaspoonful of the tincture in four ounces of water, and take a 
teaspoonful of this solution for a dose. 

Chlorate of Potash or Potassium. — See Potassa Chlorate. 



934 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Chlorate of Potassa. — See Potassa Chlorate. 

Chloride of Mercury. — See Mercury. 

Cimicifuga (Black Cohosh). — Very useful for acute and chronic rheumatism, affec- 
tions of the uterine organs, particularly menstrual irregularities, as suppressed, painful or 
excessive menstruation, for chorea when caused by rheumatism, sleeplessness, hysteria, 
and other nervous affections. Dose: Three to ten drops of the tincture in water, the 
latter dose three times a day being suitable for chronic rheumatism and other long-con- 
tinued complaints. 

Cilia (Worm-Seed). — Given for worms and disorders incident thereto. See Santonine. 

Cinchona. — Sre China. 

Cocculus (Indian Berries). — Acts on the nervous system, affecting motion, and be- 
ing thus useful in paralysis; also in giddiness, sea-sickness, disordered digestion, and 
chronic spasm of the bowels after eating. Dose: One-half to oie drop of the tincture 
twice a day; or one to five drops of the second or third dilution more often if desired. 

Coffea (Caffea Arabica). -Obtained from coffee in the crude state; acts on the 
nervous system, and in the tincture, or the alkaloid caffeine, is useful for headache and 
sleeplessness; alt>o as an antidote in poisoning by opium. Dose: For general use, one 
to five drops of the third dilution; for an antidote for opium, one-fourth grain of the 
caffeine. 

Colchicum (Meadow Saffron). — A tincture or wine is made from the tuber and 
seeds; very valuable for gout and rheumatism. It is a powerful emetic and cathartic 
when given in large doses, and care should be taken not to thus disturb the stomach and 
bowels. Dose: Wine of the seeds is best for family use, three to ten drops in water 
every two or three hours ; or two to five drops of the first dilution of the tincture. 

Collinsonia (Stone-Root).— Useful for indigestion, flatulence, constipation, and dis- 
orders of the rectum. Dose: Ten to twenty drops of the tincture. 

Colocynth (Colocynthis, Bitter Cucumber). — The compound extract is largely used 
as a cathartic, but its leading use in small doses is for colic with diarrhoea, dysentery, 
neuralgia, cramps in the legs during cholera morbus, and for other disturbances of the 
stomach and bowels Dose: One to five drops of the second dilution of the tincture; 
for a cathartic, a pill containing five grains of the compound extract. 

Conium (Spotted Hemlock). — Used principally for cancerous and strumous dis- 
eases of old people, and for inflammation of the mammary and other glands ; as an ap- 
plication for inflammation and hardening of the breasts it has no equal. A plaster may 
be made from the extract. Dose: One to five drops, the first and second dilutions be- 
ing the only suitable forms for family use. 

Convallaria (Lily of the Valley). — Fluid extract of the flowers; one of the most 
valuable medicines in nervous and organic diseases of the heart, for palpitation, irregular 
and intermittent pulse, and weak heart with drops v. Dose: Five to fifteen drops three 
or four times a day. 

Creosote (Kreasote). — Useful to arrest vomiting, often relieving when all other 
expedients fail, being particularly suitable for the vomiting of sea-sickness, cholera infan- 
tum and pregnancy. It is used to allay toothache, being put into the cavity, but care 
should be then taken not to touch the gums or cheeks, as it is a powerful caustic. Dose: 
One-tenth to one-half of a drop in acidulated syrup; or one to two drops of a dilution 
made of one part of the drug to one hundred of water. For local use in toothache, see 
Formulas. 

Croton Oil. — See Croton Tiglium. 

Croton Tiglium (Croton Oil). — A powerful cathartic, sometimes used to assist in 
expelling tape- worms; in attenuated forms useful for cholerine, diarrhoea and eczema; 



MATERIA MEDICA. 935 

and used also on the skin as a counter-irritant. Dose: One to two drops, as a cathartic; 
for other purposes, one to two drops of the second dilution, in water. 

Cuprum (Metallic Copper). — Very serviceable for cramps, spasms and convulsions, 
especially when they result from vomiting, diarrhoea, or other derangements of the di- 
gestive track, particularly applicable to Asiatic cholera, especially after the cramps have 
set in. It should be used in the form of a so.ution or trituration, the acetate of copper 
being the best. Dose: One to five grains of the second trituration. 

Digitalis (Purple Fox-glove) — A powerful tonic and diuretic; it acts particularly 
on the heart, and is suitable for dropsy arising from heart-complications, for dropsy of 
the chest, palpitation and other irregularities of the heart's action. Dose: Three to ten 
drops of the tincture. An infusion of the leaves is often used and is convenient; put one 
drachm of the leaves in a half-pint of boiling water and take one-half to one teaspoonful 
three times a day. 

Drosera (Round-leaved Sundew). — Principally used in whooping-cough, but ser- 
viceable in all spasmodic coughs, especially if attended with vomiting. Dose: Put two 
teaspoonfuls of the tincture into four ounces of a syrup of white sugar, and take one- 
half to one teaspoonful. This is an excellent cough-syrup. 

Dulcamara (Bitter-Sweet, Woody Nightshade). — Useful for eruptions and affec- 
tions arising from cold, for diarrhoea, rheumatism and other disorders arising from colds. 
Dose: One to five drops of the second or third dilution; or a teaspoonful of a decoction 
made of an ounce of the leaves and a pint of boiling water. 

Elixir IPTitrogenized Iron and Digitalis. — See Ferrum. 

Ergot (Spurred Rye). — Chiefly used in labor, to produce increased action or pain; 
also to stop flooding after delivery, and when the flow continues too long ; acts well in 
profuse menstruation. Dose: It is not suitable for domestic use during labor, as some 
knowledge of this function is then requisite in prescribing it. For severe hemorrhage 
after labor, give at once fifteen drops of Squibb's ergot in water, repeated every fifteen 
to thirty minutes until relieved. 

Eucalyptus (Australian Gum-tree). — A most valuable remedy for all catarrhal 
affections of the bronchi, bowels, bladder and throat, for flatulence, diarrhoea from a cold, 
and for ague. Dose: Five to ten drops every two or three hours. 

Euphrasia (Common Eye-bright). — Acts on the eye, and particularly useful in its 
acute catarrhal affections. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture. A local application 
for the eyes is made "of fifteen to twenty drops of the tincture to a wineglassful of water. 

Perrum (Iron). — A powerful tonic without an equal in the treatment of chlorosis, 
anaemia, and other conditions indicating a debilitated state of the blood. Of the great 
number of preparations of this metal, tincture of iron is the best and most common, the 
dose being three to ten drops in water or syrup; since it affects the teeth, it is better to 
take it through a quill or glass tube. The elixir nitrogenized iron and digitalis is service- 
able for conditions attended with deficient heart-action, the dose being one-half to one 
teaspoonful three times a day. Iron is too indiscriminately used, and it is better to take 
it upon the advice of a physician. 

Perrum Sulphuris. — See Ferrum. 

Powler's Solution (Arsenical Solution). — Convenient form for the use of arsenic. 
Dose: One-half to three drops two or three times a day in water, after eating. 

Gallic Acid. — Made from nut-galls ; a powerful astringent, used to stop bleeding, 
and especially serviceable in hemorrhage of the kidneys. Dose: Five grains every two 
to six hours, in glycerine. 

Gelseminum (Gelsemium, Yellow Jessamine). — Used for affections of the ner- 
vous system and muscles, for remittent, scarlet and nervous fevers, neuralgia, and the 



936 MATERIA MEDICA. 

primary stage of measles. Dose: This is an extremely poisonous drug in the strong 
tincture; use only the second or third dilution, one to five drops in water. 

Glonoine (Nitro-glycerine). — Very poisonous, as active as prussic acid ; operates on 
the brain and cerebral circulation ; useful for sun-stroke, congestive headache, vertigo, 
and violent convulsions. Dose: One to three drops of the second or third dilution m 
water. 

Graphites (Black Lead, Plumbago). — Used both internally and externally for un- 
healthy states of the skin, chronic ulcers, eczema, cracks and excoriations, especially 
on the nipples. Dose: One to three grains of the third trituration two or three times a 
day. For external use, see Formulas. 

Hamamelis (Witch-hazel). — Acts principally on the veins, relieving varicosis, 
phlebitis and hemorrhage, and is invaluable for piles and for bleeding from the nose and 
stomach. Dose: Five to ten drops of the tincture, in water, to stop bleeding. For local 
uses, see Formulas. Pond's Extract is a convenient form for local use. 

Hepar (Hepar Sulphuris, Liver of Sulphur). — Useful for affections of the glands 
and skin, chronic swellings and abscesses, ulcers, scaly eruptions, and catarrhal affections 
of the respiratory track. Dose: Three to five grains of the third trituration. 

Hydrastis (Hydrastia, Hydrastin, Golden Seal). — Used in both the tincture and 
the powder, the former, or fluid hydrastia, being the more convenient; acts on the mu- 
cous membranes, glands and skin ; is an excellent local remedy for various catarrhal 
affections of the mucous membranes, eyes, nose, urethra, vagina and rectum, as well as 
for cracked nipples, ulcers and fissures. Dose: Three to ten drops of the fluid two or 
three times a day. A suitable lotion is made of one to two drachms in a half pint of water. 

Hyoscyamus (Henbane). — Is poisonous, accidents sometimes happening by mis- 
taking its root for common parsnip ; largely used as a narcotic in place of opium, though 
its administration in this way should be under the advice of a physician; useful for de- 
lirium tremens, and the delirium attending typhus and puerperal fevers, convulsions, sun- 
stroke, and fainting fits of hysteria. Dose: One to two grains of the extract, or one to 
five drops of the tincture, or the first or second dilution. 

Ignatia (St. Ignatius' Bean). — Very poisonous in large doses; useful for hysteria, 
convulsions of children, sleeplessness, the consequences of fright, nervous dyspepsia, and 
other affections of the nervous and digestive systems. Dose: One to five drops of the 
second or third dilution of the tincture. 

Iodide of Arsenic. — Especially adapted to cases of a putrid nature, or those attended 
with excoriating discharges. Should never be used stronger than the third trituration 
for adults, and sixth for children. 

Iodide of Mercury. — See Mercury. 

Iodine. — Chiefly used for glandular swellings, affections of the joints, rheumatism, 
and scrofulous affections generally. For internal use it is usually combined with some 
other substance to form an iodide. Externally it is used in the tincture. Dose: One to 
three drops of the first or second dilution. For external use, see Formulas. 

Ipecac (Ipecacuanha). — Used for nausea, vomiting and other disorders of the 
stomach, diarrhoea, dysentery, whooping-cough, colds, and spasmodic croup. As an 
emetic, in large doses, it is superior, since it causes but little prostration and is prompt in 
its effects. Dose: Two to fifteen drops of the syrup; or put twenty drops in a wine- 
glassful of water, and take a teaspoonful at a time; the first and second dilutions are con- 
venient, one to five drops being the dose. If it is desired to use as an emetic, take twenty 
to thirty grains in a half-pint of water. 

Iris Versicolor (Blue Flag). — Principally used for headache, especially sick-head- 
ache which comes on periodically; summer complaint; cholera infantum when vomiting 



MATERIA MEDICA. 937 

is a prominent symptom, with bilious discharges. Dose: One-half to one drop of the 
tincture, or of the first or second dilution; for sick-headache, repeat every fifteen minutes 
until relieved, and two or three times a day thereafter to prevent a recurrence. 

Iron. — See Ferrum. 

Kali Bichromicum (Bichromate of Potash or Potassa). — In the crude form 
(crystals) it is very poisonous, but in the dilutions and triturations it has much efficacy in 
the treatment of catarrh, bronchitis, croup, sore throat and diphtheria. It is used both 
internally and externally. Dose: One to three grains of the second or third trituration. 
For an external wash, put thirty grains of the second trituration in a wineglassful of 
water. 

Kali Permanganate. — See Permanganate Potassa. 

Kreasote. — See Creosote. 

Lactic Acid (Acid of Milk). — Useful in treating the various forms of dyspepsia, 
and in the vomiting incident to pregnancy. Dose: One to five drops of the dilute acid 
in water. 

Leptandra, or Leptandrin (Leptandria Virginica, Culver's Root, Black-root).— 
When fresh the root acts as an emetic and cathartic, and is useful in the treatment of dis- 
orders of the liver and bowels, being a specific for diarrhoea with black, mushy stools. 
Dose: Five to ten drops of the tincture, or three to five grains of the first or second 
trituration; one to two grains of resinoid leptandra will also be suitable. 

Lilium Tigrinum (Tiger Lily). — Acts on the reproductive organs ; useful for vari- 
ous diseases of the uterine organs and the sympathetic disorders resulting from reflex irri- 
tation from these parts. Dose: One to three drops of the first, second or third dilution. 

Lycopodium (Club Moss). — Used in the disorders of the digestive track, and in 
some of those of the urinary organs; in the pure state it is almost inert, but valuable in 
triturations. The dry powder is used externally for excoriations in the folds of the skin 
of fleshy children. Dose: One to five grains of the second trituration. 

Mercurius. — See Mercury. 

Mercurius Bin-iodide. — See Mercury. 

Mercurius Corrosivus (Corrosive Sublimate). — For effects, see Mercury ; especially 
useful for dysentery with bloody stools and great pain in the rectum and bladder; for 
Bright's disease and acute inflammation of the kidneys. Dose: One to five grains of 
the third to the sixth trituration. 

Mercurius Dulcis (Calomel). — See Mercury. 

Mercurius Iodide. — See Mercury. 

Mercurius Solubilis. — See Mercury. 

Mercury (Mercurius Solubilis, Mercurius Dulcis, Calomel, Iodide of Mercury, 
Mercurius Iodide, Mercurius Bin-iodide). — Mercurius, or mercury, has been so much 
abused that its use was once almost abandoned, but it has now gained a great repute in 
small doses; used for various diseases of the blood, glands, and the mucous membrane of 
the digestive track, including diarrhoea, dysentery, liver-complaint, rheumatism, scurvy, 
syphilis, and Bright's disease. Ointments and lotions are made for parasites and other 
affections of the skin. Dose: One to five grains of the second or third trituration. For 
external use, see Formalas. 

Morphia. — See Opium. 

Moschus (Musk). — A powerful nerve-stimulant, very useful in hysterical paroxysms, 
nervous palpitation, and nervous excitement. Dose: One to five drops of the second 
dilution of the tincture, or one to five grains of the third trituration. 

Muriatic Acid. — See Nitro-muriatic Acid. 

Nitric Acid. — See Nitro-muriatic Acid. 



938 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Nitro-muriatic Acid (Aqua Regia). — Composed of nitric and muriatic acids and 
used for much the same purpose as these acids separately, as in certain forms of dyspep- 
sia, low fevers, diseases of the liver, and affections of the mucous membranes. Dose: 
Use only the first or second dilution — one to five drops largely diluted with water. 

Nitrum (Potassa Nitrate, or Nitrate of Potash, Nitre). — Acts on the kidneys and 
causes an increased flow of urine; used in fever-disorders. Benefit arises to asthmatic 
persons by inhaling the smoke which arises from a burning paper that has been previ- 
ously saturated with a strong solution and then dried. Dose: Five to ten drops of the 
solution or five to ten grains of the salts, largely diluted with water. 

Nux Vomica (Dog-button). — Very poisonous in large doses; in suitable doses a 
powerful nerve-tonic, and useful for many disorders of the nervous system, and, through 
that system, for the treatment of neuralgia, dyspepsia, indigestion, constipation, colic, ner- 
vous prostration, sick-headache, paralysis, neuralgia, etc. Dose: As a powerful tonic, one 
to five drops of the tincture, or one-tenth to one-fourth of a grain of the extract; but 
for family use one to five drops of the second or third dilution of the tincture will be the 
most advisable. 

Opium (Papaver Somniferum, Poppy). — Many forms of opium are in use, as mor- 
phia, morphine, codeia, narcotina, laudanum, paregoric elixir, etc. It is a powerful nar- 
cotic, used to allay pain and induce sleep. It should be given only under the direction of 
a physician, and never be continued more than a short time, as the opium-habit is easily 
formed, and with difficulty broken. One to five drops of the second or third dilution 
may, however, be used in brain fever and some other nervous disorders. 

Oxide of Zinc. — Used externally as an application to burns, scalds, chafing, cracked 
nipples, and moist eruptions of the skin. See Formulas. 

Permanganate of Potash. — See Permanganate Potassa. 

Permanganate Potassa (Kali Permanganate). — Used as a wash in various diseases 
of the mucous membranes, one to three grains to an ounce of water. 

Petroleum (Rock-Oil) — Principally used as an external application in rheumatism, 
stiff joints, inflamed glands, and sore throat. Internally, it relieves sick-headache, 
nausea, vomiting, and various nervous disorders. Dose: One to three drops of the 
third dilution. Cosmoline and vaseline are prepared from petroleum and make an ex- 
cellent body for ointments, cerates, etc., since they do not become rancid, and such 
preparations are useful for burns, scalds, and other forms of irritation of the skin. 

Phosphide of Zinc (Zincum Phosphide). — Acts on the nervous system ; useful for 
nervousness, sleeplessness, chorea, epilepsy, neuralgia, chronic headache, depression of 
the mind and insanity. Dose: One-twentieth to one-tenth of a grain; or one to two 
grains of the second trituration. 

Phosphoric Acid. — Diluted; a powerful tonic, useful in low states of the system 
induced by exhausting fever, consumption, or other wasting disease. Dose: Three to 
ten drops of the first dilution in water every one to six hours, according to the urgency. 

Phosphorus. — Useful in nervous debility, neuralgia, paralysis, organic disease of 
the liver, inflammation of the lungs, etc. It should be used only in the second or third 
dilutions. Dose: One to five drops. There are many preparations of phosphorus, 
some of which are mentioned, with the dose, in this book, as phosphates, phosphites, and 
hypophosphites. 

Phytolacca (Poke-root). — In large doses it is emetic and cathartic, and very large 
doses have produced death; used in rheumatism, piles, diseases of the skin, glandular 
swelling, as in the breasts, and especially when a scrofulous or syphilitic constitution is 
the cause. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture, or of the first dilution. For exter- 
nal use, add one part of the ti dure to five of water. 



MATERIA ME DIC A. 939 

Picrate of Ammonia- Not often used in domestic practice, but useful in some 
cases of nervous disorders, pain in the back of the head, etc. Dose: One-half to one 
drop of a saturated solution. 

Picric Acid. — See Picrate of Ammonia. 

Podophyllin (May Apple, Mandrake). — Useful in biliousness, diarrhoea from dis- 
order of the liver, and dysentery; much used as a cathartic. Dose: As a cathartic, 
thoroughly mix one-fifth of a grain of podophyllin, one-fourth of a grain of nux vomica, 
and two grains of piperine, and make them into a pill; take one every night if needed. 
For general use in bilious and digestive disorders, take one to five grains of the first or 
second trituration. 

Pond's Extract — See Hamamelis. 

Potassa Chlorate. — Acts on the mucous membranes, and is excellent for sore throat, 
sore mouth, and especially that which is cause J by mercury. It is so commonly used 
that many suppose it is harmless, but care is requisite, since it disintegrates the blood and 
lessens vitality. Dose: One to three grains dissolved in water; for a gargle or wash, a 
half-teaspoonful in four ounces of water. 

Pulsatilla (Wind-flower, Meadow Anemone). — Mainly used for disorders of menstru- 
ati n, dt ranged digestion from eating fats, headache from gastric troubles, measles, 
hysteria, and catarrhal affections of the eyes, ears, nose, vagina and womb. Dose: One 
to five drops of the first or second dilution of the tincture. 

Quinia and Quinine. — See Sulphate of ghiinia. 

Rhubarb (Rheum Palmatum). — Acts on the digestive canal ; is cathartic ; in small 
doses relieves diarrhoea, and is said to give tone to the stomach and bowels. Dose: One 
to two grains of the root, or five to ten drops of the syrup, or one to five drops of the 
tincture in water or syrup. 

Rhus (Rhus Toxicodendron, Poison Oak, Poison Ivy). — There are several varieties 
of rhus, poison ivy and rhus tox. being the best known ; used in various acute diseases of 
the skin, rheumatism, sciatica, lumbago, and in typhoid fever when there are severe 
rheumatic pains. Dose: One to five drops of the first or second dilution of the tincture, 
in water. Handle the strong tincture with caution, for it acts as a poison the same as 
the green plant. For external use, see Formulas. 

Sabadilla. — It has much the same use as Veratrum Album, which see. 

Sabina (Savin). — Used chiefly for menorrhagia when the discharge is bright-red, 
leucorrhoea, difficult urination, and threatened miscarriage. Dose: One to five drops of 
the tincture, or of the first dilution. 

Salicylic Acid. — Largely used in acute rheumatism and, alone or in the form of 
salicylates, has very quickly relieved many cases. Dose: Five to twenty grains every 
two hours, diminishing this as the pain subsides — the physician to determine when it is to 
be given. 

Sanguinaria (Blood -root). — An acrid emetic and narcotic; useful in affections of 
the lungs, and is an ingredient of many cough-mixtures; also good for recurring sick- 
headache. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture, or of the first dilution. 

Santonine (Artemisia Cina). — Prepared from the buds of cina, or worm-seed; 
useful for the expulsion of worms, especially the long stomach-worms. Dose: One- 
half to one grain night and morning, followed by a dose of castor oil; or two or three 
grains of the first trituration for four or five nights. Since it is poisonous in large 
amounts, the latter dose is the better for family use. 

Scutellaria (Skull-cap). — Suitable for nervous disorders, as palpitation, convul- 
sions and sleeplessness. Dose: One-half to one grain or five grains of the first tritura- 
tion. An infusion mav be made and be freely taken until the desired effect is secured. 



940 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Secale (Ergot, Spurred Rye). — See Ergot. 

Sepia (Inky Juice of the Cuttlefish). — Very serviceable in chronic functional dis- 
eases of women ; best adapted to women who are anaemic and of a delicate constitution, 
and suffering from scanty menstruation, leucorrhoea, amenhorrhcea and menorrhagia. 
Dose: One to five grains of the second trituration. 

Spigelia (Pink-root). — Valuable for rheumatic affections of the heart, neuralgic 
headache, angina pectoris, and some worm-affections. Dose: One to five drops of the 
first dilution ; tor worms, a wineglassf ul of a decoction of one-fourth of an ounce of 
pink-root, one-eighth of an ounce of senna leaves, and a half-pint of boiling water. 

Spongia (Roasted Sponge). — Action similar to that of Iodine, though its range is 
not so wide; useful for affections of the larynx and windpipe, as dryness with hard, dry 
cough, hoarseness, and croup. Dose: One to five drops of the first dilution, in water. 

Staphisagria (Stavesacre). — Formerly used only to destroy lice on the body, and 
to cure toothache; now found useful in various nervous disorders, as vertigo, nausea, 
sea-sickness, and hypochondria. Dose: One to five drops of the second dilution. 

Stramonium (Thorn-apple). — Principally given for nervous disorders, the delirium 
of drunkards, epilepsy, and acute insanity, frequently relieving the raving and inducing 
sleep; also for spasmodic asthma and croup, being for the former smoked in cigarettes. 
Dose: One to five drops of the tincture, or of the first dilution. For external use, see 
Formulas. 

Strychnia or Strychnine. — This is one of the alkaloids of nux vomica, and has 
much the same effects as the latter; is one of the most violent of vegetable poisons, and 
should not be used in domestic practice, as the dose, one-two-hundredth to one-fiftieth of 
a grain, in solution, is too small for non-professional prescription. 

Sulphate of Quinia (Cinchona Bark). — Sulphate of quinia and cinchona are alka- 
loids of cinchona bark, and are used both as tonics and anti-periodics ; useful in a variety 
of ailments in which the patient is to be sustained by tonics; as an anti-periodic it has no 
equal in intermittent fever and other disorders whose paroxysms come on at stated inter- 
vals. Dose: One to five grains every one, two or four hours during the interval between 
the paroxysms. It is best to take it under the direction of a physician. There is an un- 
fortunate tendency to take it as a stimulant, and thus a habit is formed, many using it for 
so-called " malaria," which is often only the quinine-habit. 

Sulphur (Brimstone). — Used in treating diseases of the skin and mucous mem- 
branes, and manv chronic ailments, as rheumatism, gout and constipation. Dose : Five 
to ten grains of the flowers of sulphur, or one to five drops of the first, second or third 
dilution of the tincture. For external use, see Formulas. 

Tartar Emetic — See Antimonium Tartaricum. 

Terebinth (Terebinthina, Oil of Turpentine). — Acts chiefly on the mucous mem- 
branes ; useful for disorders of the urinary organs, and for hemorrhage from the nose, 
stomach, bladder and womb. In the tympanitic stage of typhoid fever it may be given 
internallv, and be applied externally by means of cloths wet in water and then sprinkled 
with turpentine, the cloths being well covered to prevent evaporation. Dose: One to 
five drops on sugar ; or of the first or second dilution, on sugar or in glycerine. Since 
large doses are liable to irritate the bladder, the latter is more suitable for domestic use. 

Thuja (Arbor Vita?, Tree of Life). — Acts on the genito-urinary organs: useful for 
diseases arising from some specific poison which affects these parts, as gonorrhoea, syphi- 
lis, and the eruptions and other diseases arising therefrom ; has been given internallv and 
applied externally for cancerous and other growths. Dose: One to three drops of the 
third dilution. For use on cancers, take the strong tincture. 

Trillium (Trillium Pendulum). — Useful for hemorrhages and the flashes of heat 



MATERIA MKDICA. 941 

incident to women at the change of life. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture, or of 
the first dilution. 

Uranium Nitrate. — Useful in diabetes. Dose: One to five drops of the first or 
second dilution. 

Valerian. — A stimulant and anti-spasmodic ; useful for hysteria, nervous headache, 
and the spasms occurring at the menstrual period. Dose: Ten to thirty drops every one 
or two hours. 

Valerianate of Zinc. — Used for nervous headache, neuralgia, whooping-cough, 
hysteria, and chorea. Dose: One-fourth to one-half grain, in pills; or one to five grains 
of the first or second trituration. 

Veratrum Album (White Hellebore). — Useful for various disorders of the digestive 
track attended with a low state of the system; for Asiatic cholera, cholera morbus, and 
choleric diarrhoea accompanied with coldness, debility, cramps and fainting, it has few 
equals. Dose: One to three drops of the first, second or third dilution. 

Veratrum Viride (Green Hellebore, Itch-weed). — Acts on the spinal cord and, 
through it, on the circulation and respiration ; excellent at the commencement of certain 
forms of fever when the heart's action is violently increased, since it reduces the pulse 
very rapidly; also suitable for vesicular erysipelas, and may be applied externally in the 
form of a lotion. It must be used with caution, and is unsafe in domestic practice, unless 
in the dilutions. Dose: Three to five drops of the first or second dilution. For external 
application, use one part of the strong tincture to three of water. 

Viburnum. — See Viburnum Opulus. 

Viburnum Opulus (Cramp-bark). — Acts on the generative organs; excellent for 
painful menstruation, after-pains, cramps in the legs and abdomen of pregnant women, 
and the false pains preceding labor. Dose: One to five drops of the tincture. 

Viburnum Prunifolium (Black Haw). — Action similar to that of Viburnum Opulus, 
but it is used more especially for threatened miscarriage, with flooding, and for profuse 
menses. Dose: Three to ten drops of the tincture, in water, every one or two hours, 
or three or four times a day. 

Xanthoxylum (Prickly Ash). — Used in spasmodic colic, rheumatism, scanty or 
suppressed menstruation with cramp-like pains in the ovaries. Dose: One to five drops 
of the tincture, in water. 

Zincum Metallicum. — Phosphide of Zinc is the best form for use. See above. 

FORMULAS. 

The formulas for various lotions, liniments, ointments, cerates, etc., 
which have been recommended in the body of the book are here given, to- 
gether with others of superior merit. To insure ease of reference the 
alphabetical order is adopted, without reference to formal classifications. 
While a large portion of these preparations can be made at home, it is 
obvious that some of them can be safely and suitably compounded only by 
an apothecary. In the case of the latter, the reader ca:i copy the formulas 
and have them filled, since all pharmaceutical characters are omitted. The 
brief mention of disorders for which the various formulas are suitable will 
enable one to find some local application suited to his wants, even when 
one is not prescribed on a previous page. 



942 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



Acetic Acid Lotion. — To cure or prevent 
chafing or chapping of the hands and face : 

Acetic Acid, i drachm. 

Glycerine, i ounce. 

Rose- Water, 4 " Mix. 

Put some in the regular bathing-water. 

Aconite Lotion. — Prescribed in various 
pai ts of this book : 

Strong Tinct. Aconite, r ounce. 
Water, 4 " Mix. 

For an application for neuralgia, sciatica, 
etc., mix equal parts of tincture of aconite, 
laudanum and sulphuric ether. 

Alcohol Lotion. — For night sweats : 
Alcohol, 1 ounce. 

Water, 3 " Mix. 

Sponge the body gently with it. 

Aloes Ointment. — For cracked lips, hands, 
and other parts of the skin : 

Tinct. Aloes, 1 drachm. 

Glycerine, 9 " Mix. 

Alum Lotion. — For simple inflammations 
of the eye: 

Pure Alum, 1 grain. 

Pure Soft Water, 2 tablespoonfuls. 

Dissolve. Put a few drops in the eye 
twice a day. 

Ammonia Liniment. — For stiff neck, lum- 
bago, and other rheumatic troubles : 
Aqua Ammonia, 1 ounce. 

Olive or Salad Oil, 2 " Mix. 

Antimony Lotion. — For acne and other 

eruptions: 

Tartrate of Antimony (pulv.), 1 grain. 

Warm Water, ■£ ounce. 

Glycerine, 1 " 

Dissolve the antimony in the water, add 
the glycerine, and mix. 

Arnica Lotion. — For bruises and other in- 
juries : 

Tinct. Arnica, 1 ounce. 

Water, 4 " Mix. 

Balsam Ointment. — For bed-sores : 
Balsam Peru, 2 drachms. 

Spermaceti, 4 " Mix. 

Belladonna Liniment. — For rheumatism 
and neuralgia: 

Tinct. Belladonna, 7 drachms. 

Chloroform, 1 " Mix. 

If too strong, add olive or salad oil. 



Belladonna Lotion. — 

Tinct. Belladonna, 
Water, 



Mix. 



Belladonna Plaster. — 

Extract Belladonna and Beeswax, equal 
parts; mix and spread. Most druggists 
have them regularly prepared and they can 
be obtained in any size desired. 

Benzoic Acid Lotion. — For sore nipples 
and itching of t..e skin: 

Pure B nzoic Acid, 15 grains. 
Distilled Water, 8 ounces. 

Rectified Spirits, 3 drachms. 

Diss )lve the acid in the spirits, add the 
water, and shake until the precipitate which 
forms is wholly dissolved. 

Bismuth Lotion. — For scaly eruptions and 
excoriations, and for itching of the vulvae : 
Sub-Nitr. Bismuth, 1 drachm. 
Olive Oil, 1 ounce. Mix. 

Bismuth Ointment. — For intense itching 
and irritation, as in eczema and other 
skin-diseases: 

Nitrate of Bismuth, 30 grains. 
Prepared Lard, 1 ounce. Mix. 

Borated Glycerine Lotion. — For chapped 
lips and hands and sore nipples : 
Borax, -£ drachm. 

Glycerine, ^ ounce. 

Rose-water, 8 " Mix. 

Borax Lotion. — For excoriations, and i*ch- 
ing of the vulvae : 
Pulverized Borax, 20 grains. 
Distilled Water, 2 ounces. Dissolve. 

Borax Ointment. — For thrush, and itching 
of the vulvae : 

Pulverized Borax, 1 ounce. 
Glycerine, 4 " Dissolve. 

Butternut-Bark Lotion. — For cuts, stabs, 
punctures, etc., in horses. Make a strong 
infusion of butternut bark and apply 
freely. 

Calendula Lotion. — For open sores cuts 
and lacerations : 



Tinct. Calendula, 
Water, 



Mix 



Camphor Liniment. — For chicken pox, 
scarlatina, and itching: 

Tinct. Camphor, 1 ounce. 

Olive or Salad Oil, 3 " 

Mix until dissolved. 

Camphorated Borax Lotion. — For dand- 
ruff, ring-worm, tetter, etc.: 

Pulverized Borax, 1 drachm. 

Spirits camphor, 1 ounce. 

Glycerine, i " 

Soap Liniment, 2 

Water. 12 " Mix. 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



943 



Carbolated Cerate. — For burns and itching 
of the skin : 

Pure Carbolic Acid, 10 drops. 
Vaseline, i ounce. 

Mix very thoroughly. If desired, dis- 
guise the odor by using bergamot or rose. 

Carbolic Acid Liniment. — (a). To hasten 
scaling in scarlet fever, measles, etc ; (b). 
for burns and scalds, and to prevent ex- 
coriations : 
(a). Pure Carbolic Acid, y 2 drachm. 

Pure Olive or Salad Oil, 4 ounces. Mix 
(b). Pure Carbolic Acid, \ drachm. 

Pure Olive Oil, i£ ounces. Mix. 

Carbolic Acid Lotion. — For ulcers, in- 
flammation of the mouth and itching of 
the vulvas: 

Pure Carbolic Acid, 10 grains. 

Distilled Water, 6 ounces. 

Dissolve. 

Carbolic Acid Ointment. — For diseases of 
the skin in general : 

Carbolic Acid, 5 grains. 

Lard, 1 ounce. Mix. 

Chloroform Liniment. — For rheumatic and 

neuralgic pains in general : 
(a). Chloroform, 1 ounce. 

Ether, 1 " 

Spirits Camphor, 1 " 

Laudanum, 1 " 

Tinct. Cayenne Pep. \ " Mix. 

(b). Chloroform, 1 ounce. 

Olive or Salad Oil, 2 u Mix. 

Condition Powders. — For various condi- 
tions of the horse : 



Anise, 


3 ounces 


Fenugreek, 
Rosin, 


3 
3 " 


Ginger-root, 

Copperas, 

Antimony, 

Saltpetre, 

Licorice, 


3 " 
3 " 
i* " 
3 " 
3 " 



Mix thoroughly ; give a tablespoonf ul as 
the dose. 

Conium Plaster. — For hardened breasts : 

Extract Conium and Beeswax, equal 
parts. Mix and spread. 

Creosote Lotion. — For toothache; to be 

put into the cavity with a pledget of 
cotton : 

Creosote, 10 drops. 

Laudanum, \ drachm. 

Chloroform, \ " 

Tinct. Aconite, \ " Mix. 



Creosote Lotion. — For ulcers and diseases 
of the skin : 

Creosote, 10 drops 

Olive or Salad Oil, 1 ounce. Mix. 

Gargles. — 

(a). Chlorate of Potash, 1 drachm. 

Water, 4 ounces. 

Dissolve. Apply repeatedly until the 
throat is fully subjected to the gargle. A 
little may be swallowed, 
(b). For diphtheria and croup, to dissolve 
the false membranes. 

Fresh Lime, 5 ounces. 

Boiling Water, 1 quart. 

Shake and let it settle; pour off the clear 
liquid, and use as (a). 

Glycerine Lotion. — To prevent chapping 
and cracking of the skin : 

Pure Glvcerine, £ ounce. 

Soft Water, 8 " Mix. 

Use it as the regular bathing- water. 

Graphites Cerate. — For excoriations, crack- 
ed nipples, eczema, etc. : 

Graphites, \ drachm. 

Vaseline, 2 ounces. Mix. 

Green Salve. — For old sores of all kinds on 
the horse: 

Pine Pitch, 4 ounces. 

Rosin, 3 " 

Bees-wax, 3 " 

Turpentine, \\ " 

Lard, 1 pound. 

Mutton Tallow, \ " 

Verdigris, 1 drachm. 

Mix well the first five ingredients, then 
add the turpentine and verdigris, stirring 
until cool. For old running sores, add to 
the above one-half ounce to one ounce of 
blood-root. 



4 ounces. 

4 



Hair-Oil. — 

Olive Oil, 

Brandy, 

Oil of Bergamot, % " 

Attar of Roses, 2 or 3 drops. Mix. 

Hamamelis Lotioa. — For hemorrhages, 
varicose veins, chilblains, and a liniment 
for general use : 
(a). Tinct. Hamamelis, 1 ounce. 

Water, 2 " Mix. 

(b). Pond's Ext. Hamamelis, 2 ounces. 
Water, 1 " Mix 

Horse Liniment. — For splint, curb, spavin, 
warts, and tendency to bony growths, in 
the horse: 



Lard, 



4 ounces. 



944 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



Tallow, i ounce. 

Mercurial Ointment, 3 " 
Strong Tinct. Iodine, 2 " 
Oil of Cedar, 2 " 

Spirits of Turpentine, 2 " 
Bin-iodide Mercury, 3 drachms. 
Melt the lard and mercurial ointment 
over a slow fire and add the fluids and bin- 
iodide mercury when it begins to cool, stir- 
ring them all well together. Use it with 
caution and keep the parts well oiled after its 
application. 

Hydrastis Ointment. — For sore nipples, 
cracked lips and hands, chafed or cracked 
anus, etc.: 

Tinct. Hydrastis, i drachm. 

Glycerine, \ ounce. Mix. 

Iodine Lotion. — For rheumatism and 
swelling of the glands and other part6 : 
Tinct. Iodine, 1 ounce. 

Glycerine or Olive Oil, i " Mix. 
Paint the parts with it, using a brush. 

Iodine Ointment. — Use, same as that made 
of iodine-lotion : 

Strong Tinct. Iodine, 1 drachm. 
Lard or Vaseline, \ ounce. Mix. 

Lard Ointment. — For raw and inflamed 
sores in general : 

Lard, 1 pound. 

White Wax, 4 ounces. 

Heat and stir together until cool. 

Lime-Water. — Prescribed in various parts 
of this book, and in frequent demand in 
the household : 

Fresh Unslaked Lime, 3 ounces. 

Water (preferably distilled), 1 quart. 
Occasionally shake them until the lime 
is thoroughly slaked; let it settle and use 
the clear liquid. Keep it in a bottle or jar, 
well corked. 

Lime- Water Liniment. — Chilblains, burns, 
latter stages of eruptive diseases; will 
tend to prevent ' pitting " in small-pox 
if the surface is kept smeared with it : 

Lime-Water, 2 ounces. 

Linseed Oil, 2 " 

Tinct. Calendula, 2 drachms. Mix. 

Lime-Water and Oil Lotion. — For burns : 



Lime-Water, 1 pint. 

Linseed or Sweet Oil, 1 " 



Mix. 



Mercurial Ointment. — To be used with 

care, under a physician's advice : 
(a). For itch, etc.: 

Red Precipitate, 12 grains. 

Vaseline, i ounce. Mix. 



(b). For sore eyelids, and, in general, as a 
milder preparation : 

Red Precipitate, 2 grains. 

Vaseline, 2 drachms. Mix. 

Mustard Liniment. — For instant relief 
from pain in neuralgia, toothache, head- 
ache, and the like : 

Oil of Mustard, \ drachm. 

Sulphuric Ether, 2 " Mix. 

Nettle or Urtica Urens Liniment. — For 

ulcerated burns : 

Tincture Urtica Urens, 1 ounce. 
Olive or Salad Oil, 7 " Mix. 

Nitric Acid Lotion.— For acne in the beard : 
Strong Nitric Acid, 24 drops. 
Distilled Water, 6 ounces. Mix. 

Oil-of-Almonds Ointment. — For chapped 
hands, sore lips, and breaks in the skin 
generally : 

Oil of Almonds, 2 ounces. 

White Wax, \ drachm. 

Glycerine, 1 ounce. 

Heat and mix the oil and wax, and then 
stir in the glycerine. 

Phytolacca Cerate. — For boils, sore lips, 
glandular swellings, etc. : 

Merrill's Tinct. Phytolacca, 2 drachms. 
Vaseline, 1 ounce. 

Mix. 

Phytolacca Lotion. — For swellings, rheu- 
matism, and inflammation of the breasts : 
Tincture Phytolacca, \ ounce. 
Olive Oil, 2^ ounces. Mix. 

Potassa Lotion. — For glandular swellings : 
Tincture Potassa Iodide, 1 drachm. 
Water, S ounces. 

Dissolve. 

Rhus Lotion. — For rheumatism, sprains, 
etc.: 

Strong Tincture Rhus, 1 ounce. 
Water, 5 " Mix. 

Rhus Lotion. — For ring-bone, spavin, curb, 
etc., in the horse. 



Rhus Tincture, 
Water, 



4 ounces. 

6 " 



Mix. 



Sal Ammoniac Lotion.— For offensive feet. 
Sal Ammoniac, 1 drachm. 

Soft Water, 4 ounces. Mix. 

Sedative Saxoline. — For chapped hands, 
and other parts of the skin. 
Pure Vaseline, 1 ounce. 

Boracic Acid (pulv.), 20 grains. 



Balsam Peru, 



30 drops. Mix. 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



• )45 



Soap Liniment. — I H or 
pains, rheumatism, etc. 
Castile Soap, 
Oil of Rosemary, 
Camphor, 
Alcohol, 



bruise* 



sprains 



4 ounces. 

5 drachms. 
2 ounces. 

ii pints. Mix. 

Spermaceti Ointment. — For chapping of 
the lips, hands, and other parts, and for 
sunburn : 

Spermaceti, | ounce. 

Oil of Almonds, i " 

White Wax, i drachm, 

Rose- Water, 2 ounces. 

Melt together the first three and stir in 
the rose-water while they are cooling. 

Stramonium Ointment. — For piles, fis- 
sures, painful sores, etc. : 

Extract Stramonium, 4- ounce. 
Vaseline, 2 " Mix. 



For acne of the beard 
i drachm. 



Sulphur Lotion 

and ulcers: 

Tincture Sulphur 

Water, 

Sulphur Ointment. — For itch, (a) being 

for adults and (b) for children : 
(a). Flowers of Sulphur, i ounce. 

Lard or Vaseline, 

Oil of Bergamot, 

(b). Flowers of Sulphur 
Balsam Peru, 
Vaseline, 



Mix. 



15 drops. Mix. 

2 drachms. 

2 ounces. 

2 " Mix. 



Sulphur Ointment. — For itch, eczema, and 
divers disorders of the skin : 



Iodide of Sulphur, 
Lard, 



30 grains. 
1 ounce. Mix. 



Sulphurous Acid Ointment. — For chapped 
hands, chilblain, ring- worm, tetter, etc. : 



Sulphurous Acid, 2 drachm >. 
Glycerine, i£ ounces. Mix. 

Tannic Acid Lotion. — For ulcers and 
burns: 

Tannic Acid, 5 grains. 

Glycerine, 1 ounce. Mix. 

Tannic Acid Ointment. — Same use- as 
Sulphurous Acid Ointment: 
Tannic Acid, 1 ounce. 

Glycerine, 4 " 

Rub '.ogetner in a mortar and gently heat 
until completely dissolved. 

Vinegar Liniment. — For sprains, especially 
in the horse: Dissolve in strong vine- 
gar all the salt it will take ; apply freely, 
with bandages. 

Vinegar Lotion. — For sponging patients 
in fever, and for offensive odor about the 
feet, armpits, etc. : 

Strong Cider Vinegar, 1 ounce. 
Water, 3 " Mix. 

White Vitriol Lotion. — For simple in- 
flammation of the eyes: 

White Vitriol, 1 grain. 

Pure Soft Water, 2 tablespoon fuls. 

Dissolve. Put a few drops in the eye 
twice a day. 

Wintergreen Liniment. — For instant re- 
lief in acute rheumatism : 



Oil of Wintergreen, 
Olive Oil, 



1 ounce. 

1 " Mix. 



Zinc Ointment. — For burns, blisters, ex- 
coriations, inflamed eyelids, and various 
affections of the skin : 

Oxide of Zinc, 1 ounce. 

Lard, 6 " Mix. 



